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Casseroles have long been a staple in home cooking, cherished for their comforting, hearty nature and versatility. These one-dish meals bring together a variety of ingredients, often relying on pantry staples, making them ideal for busy weeknights. Among the many casserole options, Chicken Taco Casserole stands out as a family-friendly favorite. This dish combines the savory flavors of tacos with the ease of a baked casserole, allowing for a satisfying meal that everyone at the table will love.

Chicken Taco Casserole

Discover the delightful flavors of Chicken Taco Casserole, the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights. This easy-to-make dish combines tender chicken, black beans, sweet corn, and a blend of spices, all baked to perfection under a layer of gooey cheese. With minimal prep time and pantry staples, it’s a family-friendly meal that brings comfort and satisfaction to your table. Get ready to enjoy a wholesome and hearty dinner that's sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients
  

3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)

1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained

1 can (15 oz) corn, drained

1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies

1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning

1 cup salsa (choose mild or spicy based on your preference)

6 small corn tortillas, cut into strips

1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

1/2 cup sour cream

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Sliced jalapeños (optional, for topping)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.

    Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, rinsed black beans, drained corn, diced tomatoes (including their juices), taco seasoning, and salsa. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently mix all the ingredients together until everything is well-coated with the salsa and seasoning, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.

      Layer the Casserole: Take a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and spread half of the corn tortilla strips evenly across the bottom. Spoon half of the prepared chicken mixture over the tortilla strips, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese over the chicken mixture, creating a cheesy layer.

        Repeat the Layers: Repeat the layering process by adding the remaining corn tortilla strips as the next layer. Follow this with the rest of the chicken mixture, ensuring it’s spread uniformly. Finally, top everything with the remaining cheese, making sure it generously covers the surface for that perfect melted topping.

          Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil to trap in moisture and enhance the cooking process. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.

            Serve: Once the casserole is baked to perfection, allow it to cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes to set. Drizzle the sour cream over the top, sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro, and add sliced jalapeños if you enjoy a bit of heat. Serve warm and savor every bite!

              Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 50 min | Servings: 6

                Presentation Tips: For a beautiful presentation, serve each portion with a side of extra salsa and a wedge of lime. You can also garnish with more cilantro for a pop of color!