Description
If you’re in the mood for tantalizing flavors that celebrate the essence of Tex-Mex cuisine, look no further than this Tex-Mex Chicken Taco Casserole.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (drained)
- 1 cup black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Begin by heating olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Once the oil glistens, toss in the chopped onion. Sauté until the onion becomes tender and translucent—in about 3 to 5 minutes. The aroma of the onion cooking will fill your kitchen, signaling that you’re on the right track. After the onion is softened, add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Next, stir in the shredded chicken followed by the taco seasoning. Mix everything together thoroughly so that the chicken is evenly coated with the zesty seasoning. This step is where the flavor profile starts to build up, giving your casserole that signature Tex-Mex taste. Allow this mixture to cook for about 2-3 minutes, letting the chicken absorb those delightful flavors.
- Once your chicken and seasoning are well acquainted, it’s time to add the diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn to the skillet. Stir everything together, and let it all simmer on low heat for approximately 5 to 7 minutes. The mixture should become heated through. Following this, lower the heat even further and incorporate the softened cream cheese, stirring until it melts completely. This will create a creamy, savory blend that’s irresistible. Finally, add the sour cream, mixing until smooth to bring everything to a sumptuous finish.
- As the chicken mixture simmers, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab your greased baking dish and start layering! Begin with a tortilla on the base, then scoop a layer of the creamy chicken mixture followed by a generous sprinkle of both cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Repeat these layers until your ingredients are used up, finishing with a top layer of cheese to ensure that delicious melty goodness. Once layered, transfer your casserole to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
Notes
Feel free to customize the texture by adding crushed tortilla chips in between layers for a delightful crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 35 g