Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Taco Casserole is a winning recipe for many reasons. First, it combines all the best taco ingredients into one hearty, cheesy casserole. The creamy sour cream or Greek yogurt mixed with the taco seasoning and shredded chicken creates a flavorful base that’s perfectly complemented by the fresh crunch of crushed tortilla chips and the gooey melted cheese on top. It’s simple to make, easy to customize, and always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, the combination of beans, corn, and veggies adds an extra layer of flavor and texture that makes each bite satisfying.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons cooking oil
1 onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works well)
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained (save ¼ cup liquid)
1 packet taco seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic salt
1 ¼ cups sour cream or Greek yogurt
2 cups shredded cheese (Colby Jack or cheddar)
1 cup crushed tortilla chips
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper, and cook until soft (about 5 minutes).
Add the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and garlic salt to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes, adding a bit of the reserved tomato liquid if needed.
Remove from heat and stir in sour cream and half the shredded cheese.
Spread the mixture evenly in the greased baking dish. Top with crushed tortilla chips and the remaining cheese.
Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with additional beans or grilled vegetables to make it vegetarian-friendly.
Different Cheeses: Swap out the Colby Jack for a spicier cheese like Pepper Jack or use a combination of mozzarella and cheddar.
Taco Sauce: If you like saucier casseroles, add a few tablespoons of taco sauce to the mixture for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground chicken instead of shredded chicken?

Yes, ground chicken can be a great substitute for shredded chicken. Just cook it fully before adding the other ingredients.

2. Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! You can freeze the casserole before baking. Just assemble it, cover with foil, and freeze. When you’re ready to eat, bake from frozen at 350°F for 45-50 minutes or until hot.

3. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt works great as a substitute for sour cream and adds a tangy flavor.

4. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking. Cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

5. Can I use fresh corn instead of canned corn?

Fresh corn can be used instead of canned, but make sure to cook it first and cut the kernels off the cob before adding it to the dish.

6. Can I make this dish without cheese?

Yes, you can skip the cheese or use dairy-free cheese if you prefer a non-dairy version.

7. What other toppings can I use?

Feel free to top your casserole with sour cream, salsa, avocado, or guacamole for an extra touch of flavor.

8. Can I use another type of bean?

Yes, black beans are great, but you could also use pinto beans, kidney beans, or refried beans for a different flavor and texture.

9. How spicy is this casserole?

The casserole is mild by default, but you can make it spicy by adding jalapeños, hot sauce, or using spicy taco seasoning.

10. Can I use tortilla strips instead of crushed chips?

Tortilla strips can work as a substitute for the crushed chips, and they will still give you a satisfying crunch.

Conclusion

Chicken Taco Casserole is a deliciously simple and satisfying meal that combines the best flavors of tacos with the comfort of a baked casserole. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping meals for the week, this dish will quickly become a favorite. With its creamy base, crunchy topping, and customizable options, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Try it out today and enjoy a flavorful, no-fuss dinner that everyone will love!