Chicken Taco Casserole

This cheesy chicken taco casserole transforms all your favorite taco flavors into a comforting and hearty baked dish. When my family craves tacos but I need something easier to serve a crowd, this casserole has become my go-to solution for busy weeknight dinners.

I first created this recipe when hosting an impromptu game night and needed something substantial that wouldn't keep me in the kitchen all evening. The empty dish and requests for the recipe convinced me this needed to become a regular in our dinner rotation.

Ingredients

• Cream of chicken soup: Provides a creamy base that holds everything together beautifully
• Chunky salsa: Adds instant flavor and saves chopping time; use your preferred spice level
• Diced green chilies: Bring a mild heat that even spice-sensitive eaters can enjoy
• Sour cream: Creates richness and balances the spices perfectly
• Chicken taco seasoning: Infuses authentic taco flavor throughout the dish
• Shredded chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for incredible flavor and convenience
• Seasoned black beans: Add protein and heartiness, making this truly satisfying
• Crushed tortilla chips: Create the perfect crunchy layer reminiscent of taco shells
• Colby jack and Monterey jack cheeses: Melt beautifully and provide the perfect pull when served

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Baking Dish:

Preheat your oven to 375°F and spray your 9x13 baking dish with cooking spray ensuring all corners are coated to prevent sticking.

Create The Flavorful Base:

In a large mixing bowl combine cream of chicken soup, chunky salsa, green chilies, sour cream, and taco seasoning, stirring until completely smooth. Take your time here as this ensures even flavor distribution throughout the casserole.

Incorporate Proteins:

Add your shredded chicken and black beans to the mixture folding gently but thoroughly. The warm spices will coat every piece of chicken and every bean creating layers of flavor in each bite.

Begin Layering Process:

Spread half of your chicken mixture into an even layer on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to push the mixture into the corners and create a level foundation for your casserole.

Add Crunch Element:

Sprinkle 2½ cups of crushed tortilla chips evenly over the first layer. This middle layer of chips adds texture and that authentic corn tortilla flavor central to great tacos.

Complete The Layers:

Carefully spread the remaining chicken mixture over the chips, trying not to disturb the chip layer too much. This creates distinct textural layers in your finished casserole.

Top With Cheese And Crunch:

Cover the entire casserole with your shredded cheeses and remaining crushed chips. The combination of both cheese varieties creates the perfect melt and flavor profile.

Bake To Perfection:

Bake for 30 minutes until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly with edges turning golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen will have everyone asking when dinner is ready.

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The green chilies are truly the secret ingredient in this recipe. My grandmother always added them to her Mexican inspired dishes and taught me that their mild heat opens up all the other flavors without overwhelming the palate. When my children were younger they would pick them out until I started dicing them extra small now they ask for extra.

Make Ahead Options

This casserole is perfect for busy families. You can prepare the entire mixture and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. Simply add about 10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold. For even more convenience prepare individual portions in smaller baking dishes for personalized meals throughout the week.

Customization Ideas

Transform this casserole to suit your family preferences. Substitute ground beef or turkey for the chicken or go vegetarian by doubling the beans. Corn makes a colorful and sweet addition while diced bell peppers add nutrition and texture. For those who enjoy heat stir in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the base mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this casserole with a variety of fresh toppings that allow everyone to customize their portion. Set out bowls of diced avocado, pico de gallo, additional sour cream, shredded lettuce, and lime wedges. A simple side salad with a lime vinaigrette makes the perfect accompaniment and adds freshness to balance the richness of the casserole.

Storage Tips

This casserole maintains its quality beautifully when stored properly. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2 minutes or until heated through. For best results when reheating larger portions cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes to maintain the texture of the chips and prevent the edges from drying out.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use pre-shredded cheese in this casserole?

While pre-shredded cheese can be used, freshly shredded cheese is recommended as it melts better without the coating found in packaged varieties.

→ What type of salsa works best?

A chunky-style salsa, like PACE mild or your favorite brand, delivers the best texture and flavor for this casserole.

→ Can I substitute tortilla chips?

Yes, you can use crushed corn tortillas or even nacho chips for a creative twist, though traditional tortilla chips work beautifully.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, spicier salsa, or use a hot chicken taco seasoning mix to increase the heat level.

→ What are some garnish options?

Fresh cilantro is a great garnish, but you can also add sliced green onions, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flair.