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Chicken Taco Casserole

Chicken Taco Casserole

  • Author: David
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Chicken Taco Casserole is a quick and easy meal bursting with smoky, savory, and comforting flavors. It combines tender shredded chicken with crispy smoked turkey bacon, black beans, fresh vegetables, and gooey plant-based cheese in a flavorful sauce, layered with crunchy crushed tortilla chips for perfect texture contrast. Ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this casserole is a versatile, family-friendly crowd-pleaser that can be customized to your taste and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 cups shredded chicken breasts or thighs
  • 4 slices smoked turkey bacon
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

Vegetables

  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • Optional: 1/2 cup corn kernels, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra veggies

Dairy and Cheese

  • 1 1/2 cups plant-based cheese (plant-based), shredded

Seasonings and Sauces

  • 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (natural)

Crunch and Garnishes

  • 2 cups crushed corn tortilla chips
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon and Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the smoked turkey bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan. Add diced onions and green bell peppers to the skillet and sauté in the bacon fat until softened and fragrant.
  2. Prepare the Chicken Mixture: Add the shredded chicken, black beans, diced tomatoes, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), and taco seasoning (natural) to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook over low heat for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  3. Assemble the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish. Spread half of the crushed tortilla chips evenly on the bottom of the dish. Layer half of the chicken mixture over the chips, then sprinkle half of the plant-based cheese (plant-based) on top. Repeat these layers with the remaining chips, chicken mixture, and cheese. Finally, sprinkle the crispy smoked turkey bacon over the top.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Bake the casserole uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, until the plant-based cheese melts, bubbles, and the top turns golden. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded chicken for the best texture and flavor absorption.
  • Layer the crushed tortilla chips thoughtfully to alternate crunchy and moist layers.
  • Adjust the amount of taco seasoning (natural) to suit your preferred spice level.
  • Avoid overbaking to keep the topping crisp and prevent dryness.
  • Choose plant-based cheese varieties with good melt quality for a gooey, creamy casserole.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: chicken taco casserole, smoked turkey bacon, plant-based cheese, gluten free casserole, easy weeknight dinner, family meal

Find it online: https://yummyrecipeszone.com/chicken-taco-casserole/