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When it comes to weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends and family, few dishes can match the comforting allure of a Cheesy Chicken Taco Casserole. This delectable dish combines the rich flavors and textures of classic tacos with the convenience of a casserole, making it a favorite among home cooks everywhere. With layers of cheesy goodness, hearty ingredients, and a quick preparation process, this casserole is designed to please even the pickiest of eaters.

Cheesy Chicken Taco Casserole

Discover the heartwarming comfort of Cheesy Chicken Taco Casserole, perfect for any gathering or weeknight dinner! This delicious one-dish meal combines all your favorite taco flavors with the convenience of a casserole. With layers of tender chicken, black beans, sweet corn, and gooey cheese, this recipe is easy to customize to suit everyone’s palate. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that’s as delightful to serve as it is to eat.
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked and shredded chicken

1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained

1 can (15 oz) corn, drained

1 cup salsa (choose mild, medium, or hot based on your preference)

1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 oz)

1 cup sour cream

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

1 cup crushed tortilla chips (plus extra for topping)

1 medium bell pepper, diced (any color of your choice)

1 small red onion, diced

1 tablespoon olive oil

Chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Slices of jalapeño (optional, for added heat)

Sour cream or avocado (for serving)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.

    Cook the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, toss in the diced bell pepper and red onion. Sauté these vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become fragrant.

      Combine Fillings: In a generous mixing bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, rinsed black beans, drained corn, salsa, and taco seasoning. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.

        Add Cream & Cheese: Gently fold in the sour cream and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the chicken mixture, ensuring everything is evenly blended and creamy.

          Layer the Casserole: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Start by spreading half of the crushed tortilla chips evenly across the bottom of the dish. Next, pour half of the chicken mixture over this layer of chips. Repeat this layering process with the remaining crushed chips followed by the rest of the chicken mixture.

            Cheesy Topping: Sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top layer of the chicken mixture. For extra crunch, add a bit more crushed tortilla chips on top.

              Bake the Casserole: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in and prevent excessive browning. Bake in your preheated oven for 25 minutes. After this time, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.

                Garnish and Serve: Once the casserole is done baking, take it out of the oven and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes to set. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and scattered jalapeño slices for a spicy kick if desired. Serve warm with additional sour cream or creamy avocado on the side to enhance your experience.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 50 minutes | Serves 6-8

                    Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, serve the casserole in the baking dish itself and offer individual bowls of sour cream, avocado, and extra cilantro on the side for everyone to customize their servings.