Chicken Taco Casserole is a delicious, hearty, and satisfying dish that brings together the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine in a comforting casserole format.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to feed your family a wholesome meal with minimal effort.

It combines tender chicken, seasoned taco meat, cheese, and a variety of veggies, all baked together to create a mouthwatering meal that everyone will love.

The best part about Chicken Taco Casserole is its versatility. You can customize it to suit your tastes by adding extra ingredients like beans, corn, or even jalapeños for some added heat.

Whether you’re serving it as a weeknight dinner or preparing it for a crowd at a potluck or family gathering, this casserole will be a hit every time.

Why You Will Love Chicken Taco Casserole

Simple to Make: The casserole comes together with just a few key ingredients, and the preparation time is quick and easy. It’s a one-pan meal, making cleanup a breeze.

Customizable: Add your favorite toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, or fresh cilantro, and adjust the spice level to your preference.

Packed with Flavor: The combination of seasoned chicken, taco spices, and melty cheese creates a flavorful casserole that is guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds.

Great for Leftovers: This dish stores well in the fridge and can be reheated for a tasty lunch or dinner the next day.

Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the cheesy, savory layers of chicken and taco-inspired flavors.

Ingredients

To make Chicken Taco Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:

2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced, preferably rotisserie chicken for convenience)
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)
1 can (15 oz) black beans (drained and rinsed)

1 cup frozen corn (or fresh, if preferred)
1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning)
1 cup sour cream

1 cup salsa (choose your preferred heat level)
1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips (optional, for topping)

1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions

Sliced jalapeños
Fresh cilantro
Guacamole or avocado slices

Sour cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole will bake evenly and reach a perfectly golden brown color on top.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

If you’re using rotisserie chicken, shred or chop the meat into bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, cook your own chicken breast or thighs, then shred or dice them.

Using pre-cooked chicken can save time and adds convenience to the recipe.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

In a medium-sized pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 can of diced tomatoes (with juices), 1 can of black beans, and 1 cup of frozen corn.

Stir everything together and season with salt, pepper, and half of the taco seasoning. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until heated through.

Step 4: Mix the Chicken and Other Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sautéed vegetable mixture, 1 cup of salsa, and 1 cup of sour cream.

Add the remaining taco seasoning and stir everything well to ensure the mixture is evenly seasoned.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the chicken mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, making sure the mixture is well-distributed.

Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, making sure it covers the entire casserole.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can check by inserting a toothpick or knife into the center to see if it comes out hot.

Step 7: Add the Crunchy Topping (Optional)

If you like a crunchy topping, sprinkle 1/2 cup of crushed tortilla chips over the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking. This will give the casserole an extra layer of texture and flavor.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the casserole is finished baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.

You can garnish the casserole with chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream. Serve with extra tortilla chips on the side or over a bed of fresh greens for added crunch.

Variations

Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and use extra beans and vegetables. You can substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or even tempeh for a meat-free option.

Spicy Chicken Taco Casserole: Add diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture or use a spicier salsa to kick up the heat. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes or hot sauce on top before baking.

Taco Soup Style: If you prefer a more soupy version, add more salsa and sour cream to the mixture and bake with less cheese for a creamy, stew-like casserole. Serve with tortilla strips for added texture.

Use Ground Beef or Turkey: Substitute the shredded chicken with ground beef or turkey for a slightly different flavor. Brown the meat in a skillet before adding the taco seasoning and other ingredients.

How to Serve

Chicken Taco Casserole can be served as a standalone meal or paired with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas:

Serve with Fresh Greens: A simple side salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and a tangy dressing will add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
Top with Fresh Guacamole: Guacamole is always a great topping for any Mexican-inspired dish. It adds creaminess and freshness.

Serve with Rice: For a more substantial meal, serve the casserole with a side of cilantro-lime rice or Spanish rice.
Pair with Tortilla Chips: Serve with crispy tortilla chips for extra crunch and a classic Mexican touch.