As someone who loves tacos but doesn’t always have the time to make them from scratch, I’ve found a fantastic solution: One Pan Chicken Taco Casserole. This recipe combines the flavors of tacos with the ease of a casserole, all in one pan. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a meal that’s both quick and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love It
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal prep and can be ready in under an hour. It’s perfect for those nights when you’re short on time but still want a delicious meal.
- Versatile: You can customize it with your favorite taco toppings, making it a great option for families or groups with different tastes.
- Flavorful: The combination of chicken, taco seasoning, and cheese creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.
Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Serving Size: 6-8 people
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Pan: Grease a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven with a little oil.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the diced chicken to the pan and cook over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Add Beans, Corn, and Tomatoes: In the same pan, add the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine.
- Add Seasonings: Sprinkle taco seasoning, garlic salt, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using) over the mixture. Stir well.
- Return Chicken: Add the cooked chicken back into the pan and stir to combine with the bean mixture.
- Top with Cheese and Chips: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the chicken mixture, followed by crushed tortilla chips.
- Bake: Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Taco Toppings: Serve with your favorite taco toppings like diced avocado, sour cream, salsa, and sliced jalapeños.
- Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Mexican Rice: Serve alongside Mexican rice for a filling dinner.
Tips for Customization
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For an even quicker meal, use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breast.
- Add Some Heat: If you like spicy food, add more cayenne pepper or use hot sauce as a topping.
- Veggie Additions: Throw in some diced bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and nutrients.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance, but it’s best to assemble and bake just before serving for the best results.
Q: Can I use ground beef instead of chicken?
A: Absolutely! Ground beef works well in this recipe. Just cook it until it’s browned before adding the other ingredients.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free taco seasoning.This One Pan Chicken Taco Casserole is a game-changer for anyone looking for a quick, delicious, and easy meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Give it a try and enjoy the flavors of Mexico in the comfort of your own home!
