Introduction
Get ready to indulge in a delightful fusion of flavors with this mouthwatering baked chicken casserole. Combining tender chicken, zesty black beans, and sweet corn, all enveloped in creamy goodness and topped with crunchy tortilla chips, this dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. It’s hearty, satisfying, and brings a taste of the Mexican kitchen right to your table.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken breasts, cubed
1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 cup sour cream
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided
1 packet taco seasoning
3 to 4 cups crushed tortilla chips
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
25 to 30 minutes
Total Time
35 to 40 minutes
Yield
Serves 6 to 8
Enjoy this delicious baked chicken casserole, and feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings for an extra burst of freshness and flavor!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prepare it for the casserole.
Step 2: Prepare the Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, sour cream, softened cream cheese, 1 cup of the shredded Mexican blend cheese, and taco seasoning. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix the ingredients until well combined, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Layer the Tortilla Chips
Spread a layer of crushed tortilla chips at the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a base for the casserole.
Step 4: Add the First Layer of Chicken Mixture
Evenly distribute half of the chicken mixture over the layer of tortilla chips. Use the back of a spoon to smooth it out into an even layer.
Step 5: Add a Second Layer of Tortilla Chips
Add another layer of crushed tortilla chips on top of the first chicken mixture layer, ensuring it covers the mixture completely.
Step 6: Add the Remaining Chicken Mixture
Spread the remaining chicken mixture over the second layer of tortilla chips. Make sure to smooth it out evenly so that every bite has an equal portion of the filling.
Step 7: Top with Tortilla Chips and Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining crushed tortilla chips and the remaining 1 cup of shredded Mexican blend cheese over the top of the casserole, creating a delicious and cheesy topping.
Step 8: Bake the Casserole
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The casserole is ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the entire dish is heated through.
Step 9: Rest Before Serving
Once removed from the oven, allow the casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This waiting time helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve.
Step 10: Optional Garnishing
For added flavor and presentation, garnish the casserole with fresh toppings such as sliced avocados, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime juice right before serving.
Notes
Tip 1: Cooking Chicken
Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before cubing it. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Tip 2: Canned Ingredients
Rinsing and draining the black beans and corn helps reduce excess sodium and improves the dish’s overall flavor.
Tip 3: Cream Cheese Softening
To soften cream cheese quickly, you can cut it into small cubes and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes or microwave it in short intervals.
Tip 4: Serving Suggestions
Consider serving the casserole alongside a fresh green salad or a side of guacamole for a complete meal.
Tip 5: Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Cook Techniques
Preheating the Oven
Preheating your oven to 350°F ensures that the casserole cooks evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.
Combining Ingredients
Thoroughly mix all the ingredients in a large bowl to ensure the flavors meld together beautifully.
Layering
Layering crushed tortilla chips with the chicken mixture allows for a balanced texture and flavor throughout the casserole.
Baking
Bake the casserole until the cheese is melted and the dish is heated through, which typically takes 25 to 30 minutes.
Resting
Letting the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes after baking allows it to set, making it easier to serve.
Garnishing
Adding fresh toppings like sliced avocados or chopped cilantro enhances both flavor and presentation before serving.
FAQ
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooked chicken breasts?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works well and saves time in preparation.
Is there a substitute for cream cheese?
You can use Greek yogurt or mascarpone for a lighter alternative, although the texture may vary.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Just increase the baking time if it’s chilled.
What if I don’t have taco seasoning?
You can create a homemade blend using chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and oregano.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can be a great addition to increase the veggie content.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
This creamy chicken casserole, bursting with flavor from the combination of chicken, beans, corn, and cheese, is perfect for a comforting dinner or a party dish. Its layers of crunchy tortilla chips add a delightful texture while the blend of spices ensures every bite is delicious. Enjoy the leftovers or customize the recipe to suit your taste and make it your own.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Enchiladas
Use the same chicken, beans, and cheese mixture to fill tortillas, roll them up, and top with enchilada sauce and additional cheese before baking.
Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas
Spread the chicken mixture between tortillas, grill until crispy, and serve with salsa and sour cream for a quick meal.
Southwest Chicken Salad
Combine the chicken and black beans with fresh greens, corn, avocado, and a lime vinaigrette for a refreshing salad option.
Taco Soup
Turn this casserole into a hearty soup by adding chicken broth and simmering the ingredients together for a flavorful and warm dish.
Spicy Chicken Nachos
Layer tortilla chips with the chicken mixture, top with extra cheese, jalapeños, and bake until bubbly for a perfect appetizer or snack.
