Description
This Chicken Taco Casserole is a delicious and satisfying dish featuring layers of seasoned ground chicken, black beans, corn, and rice, all topped with melted cheese and crunchy tortilla chips. It’s easy to make and perfect for family meals or gatherings, offering a delightful blend of flavors that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 ounce)
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup tortilla chips, crushed
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
- Avocado slices, for serving (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Next, add the ground chicken to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink and is cooked through.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked chicken mixture. Stir well to combine, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Pour in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and salsa. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- If you haven’t already cooked your rice, now is the time to do so. You can use either white or brown rice, depending on your preference. Follow the package instructions for cooking.
- Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and set it aside. This will be layered into the casserole later.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice with half of the shredded cheddar cheese and the sour cream. Mix until well combined.
- In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread the rice mixture evenly across the bottom.
- Next, layer the chicken mixture over the rice, spreading it out evenly to cover the rice completely.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top of the chicken mixture, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
- Finally, add the crushed tortilla chips on top of the cheese layer. This will give the casserole a nice crunch once baked.
- Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This will help the layers set a bit, making it easier to serve.
- Using a large spoon or spatula, cut into the casserole and serve generous portions onto plates.
- If desired, garnish each serving with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve with avocado slices and lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.
- Enjoy your delicious Chicken Taco Casserole with family and friends!
Notes
- If you want to add more veggies, consider incorporating bell peppers or zucchini into the chicken mixture.
- For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or use a spicy salsa.
- Feel free to substitute ground turkey or beef for the ground chicken if you prefer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes