If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy dinner idea, this Healthy Chicken Taco Casserole Recipe is just the ticket. I remember one night when my son, Jake, declared he was too full for dinner, but after one bite of this casserole, he went back for seconds! It’s packed with flavor and made with wholesome ingredients, so you can feel good about serving it to your family.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- It’s a quick and easy dinner option that everyone will love.
- You can use leftover rotisserie chicken, making it a time-saver.
- It’s a healthier twist on traditional tacos, perfect for busy weeknights.
- The layers of flavor will make your taste buds dance with joy.
Pure Comfort
This casserole is pure comfort food. The combination of tender chicken, zesty spices, and melted cheese creates a warm, inviting dish that feels like a hug on a plate.
What You Need
- 2 cups 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded – Use any leftover chicken you have.
- 15 oz 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed – You can substitute with pinto beans if preferred.
- 1 cup 1 cup corn, frozen or canned – Fresh corn works well too, if in season.
- 1 cup 1 cup salsa – Choose your favorite heat level.
- 8 8 corn tortillas, cut into strips – Whole grain tortillas are a healthier option.
- 8 oz 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded – Feel free to use a dairy-free cheese.
- 1 tsp 1 tsp cumin – Coriander can be used for a different flavor.
- 1 tsp 1 tsp chili powder – Adjust based on your spice preference.
- 1/2 tsp 1/2 tsp salt – Use low sodium salt if preferred.
- 1/2 tsp 1/2 tsp black pepper – Freshly ground pepper adds more flavor.
Time to Cook
Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 30 minutes | Total: 45 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance.
Steps to Make It
- Preheat your oven to 350 °F. This ensures your casserole will bake evenly and come out perfectly bubbly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well coated and the colors are vibrant.
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the tortilla strips on the bottom. This creates a nice base for your casserole.
- Spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortilla strips. You want to cover them evenly for the best flavor.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top of the chicken mixture. The cheese will melt beautifully and add a creamy texture.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining tortilla strips, chicken mixture, and cheese. This will give you a hearty casserole with delicious layers.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and keeps the casserole moist.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden. The aroma will be irresistible!
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to cut.
- Serve warm, and enjoy this healthy twist on a family favorite!
Make It Perfect
- For added veggies, throw in some diced bell peppers or zucchini.
- Top with fresh cilantro or avocado for an extra burst of flavor.
- If you like it spicy, add jalapeños to the chicken mixture.
- This casserole pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some fresh fruit.
Mix It Up
- Swap out the chicken for ground turkey or beef for a different protein.
- Make it vegetarian by using lentils or more beans instead of chicken.
- Try different cheese varieties like pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Perfect Partners
- Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream.
- Pair it with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Tortilla chips on the side add a nice crunch.
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FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! Just cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
What can I substitute for rotisserie chicken?
You can use cooked chicken breast or canned chicken as alternatives.
Is this casserole spicy?
It has a mild kick from the salsa and spices, but you can adjust the heat to your liking.
Conclusion
This Healthy Chicken Taco Casserole Recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a wholesome dinner that the whole family will love. With its layers of flavor and easy preparation, it’s bound to become a regular in your meal rotation. Give it a try, and I bet your family will be asking for it again and again!
Healthy Chicken Taco Casserole Recipe
Equipment
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded Use any leftover chicken you have.
- 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed You can substitute with pinto beans if preferred.
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned Fresh corn works well too, if in season.
- 1 cup salsa Choose your favorite heat level.
- 8 corn tortillas, cut into strips Whole grain tortillas are a healthier option.
- 8 oz cup cheddar cheese, shredded Feel free to use a dairy-free cheese.
- 1 tsp cumin Coriander can be used for a different flavor.
- 1 tsp chili powder Adjust based on your spice preference.
- 1/2 tsp salt Use low sodium salt if preferred.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper Freshly ground pepper adds more flavor.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 °F. This ensures your casserole will bake evenly and come out perfectly bubbly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well coated and the colors are vibrant.
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the tortilla strips on the bottom. This creates a nice base for your casserole.
- Spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortilla strips. You want to cover them evenly for the best flavor.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top of the chicken mixture. The cheese will melt beautifully and add a creamy texture.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining tortilla strips, chicken mixture, and cheese. This will give you a hearty casserole with delicious layers.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and keeps the casserole moist.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden. The aroma will be irresistible!
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to cut.
- Serve warm, and enjoy this healthy twist on a family favorite!