Ground Chicken Taco Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings the festive flare of taco night into one hearty casserole. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, combining lean ground chicken with classic taco flavors and delicious toppings, all baked to perfection. The best part? You can whip this up in no time, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners or meal prep.
Why Make This Ground Chicken Taco Casserole
Ground Chicken Taco Casserole is not just easy to make but also healthy and satisfying. It uses ground chicken, which is a leaner protein alternative to beef, making it a smart choice for those looking to limit fat intake without sacrificing flavor. The dish is packed with robust taco seasonings and colorful veggies like pinto beans, corn, and tomatoes, ensuring you’ll get a pulse of rich tastes in every bite. The combination of cheesy goodness and crispy tortilla strips adds a delightful texture that will have everyone going back for seconds. Plus, with its adaptability, you can customize it to suit your family’s preferences or dietary needs, making it a versatile staple for your dinner rotation.
How to Make Ground Chicken Taco Casserole
Making this Ground Chicken Taco Casserole is straightforward and quick, ensuring you won’t be in the kitchen for hours. With just one skillet and a few simple steps, you’ll have a meal that impresses both in flavor and presentation.
Ingredients:
- 0.5 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground chicken (ground chicken breast recommended for lean protein)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or use homemade seasoning blend below)
- 15 oz pinto beans (canned, undrained unless very little liquid)
- 10 oz diced tomatoes and green chiles (canned)
- 1 cup frozen roasted corn (170g)
- 0.5 cup chicken broth or water
- 6 extra thin corn tortillas (cut into thin strips)
- 4 oz shredded Mexican cheese
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your casserole cooks evenly and the cheese melts beautifully.
Heat the olive oil in a large 12-inch oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1-2 minutes. This will set the base for a tasty casserole.
Add the ground chicken to the hot skillet and let it brown undisturbed for 3-4 minutes on one side to develop better texture and flavor. After that, break it into pieces and cook until no pink remains and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), about 3-4 more minutes. This step is essential for ensuring your chicken is cooked through.
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked chicken and stir until evenly distributed, about 30 seconds. The spices should become fragrant, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
Add the undrained pinto beans, tomatoes and green chiles, frozen corn, and broth to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined, about 1 minute.
Fold in the tortilla strips, distributing them throughout the mixture. Top evenly with shredded cheese, making sure to cover the edges to prevent exposed tortillas from burning.
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling, and any exposed tortilla edges are starting to brown and crisp up.
Remove from oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. Garnish with nonfat Greek yogurt, chopped cilantro, salsa macha, hot sauce, or your choice of toppings. This resting time allows the flavors to meld a bit more.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 690mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 7g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 24g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients used and portion sizes.
How to Serve Ground Chicken Taco Casserole
Serve your Ground Chicken Taco Casserole hot from the oven, garnished with your favorite toppings. This dish is perfect for casual family dinners, game day gatherings, or even as a potluck delight. Pair it with a side of fresh salad, tortilla chips, or guacamole for a complete meal that pleases a crowd. Feeling adventurous? Serve it in individual bowls for a fun, personalized touch.
How to Store Ground Chicken Taco Casserole
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short intervals until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the casserole (before baking, if possible) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed.
Expert Tips for Perfect Ground Chicken Taco Casserole
- Don’t skip browning the chicken: This step adds depth of flavor through browning, so take your time here.
- Customize spices: Feel free to adjust the chili powder or add jalapeños for additional heat if your crowd likes it spicy.
- Use a mix of cheese: Try blending in some pepper jack or cheddar cheese for added flavor.
- Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the casserole to avoid overcooking, which can make the tortillas chewy.
Delicious Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground chicken with tempeh or quinoa for a vegetarian alternative.
- Low-Carb Choice: Replace the corn tortillas with cauliflower rice or sliced zucchini.
- Spicy Variation: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne to the chicken for a kick.
- Taco Fiesta: Mix in black beans instead of pinto beans for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken and offers similar lean protein benefits.What if I can’t find extra thin corn tortillas?
You can use standard corn tortillas, but cut them into smaller pieces or strips to achieve a crunchy texture.Can I make this in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole and store it unbaked in the fridge for up to a day. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve for the best results.Is there an alternative to pinto beans?
Yes, black beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas work well in this recipe.How long does it take to cook from frozen?
If baking from frozen, extend the baking time by about 10-15 minutes, ensuring it is heated thoroughly.Can I add veggies?
Definitely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can be great additions for more nutrients and flavor.What toppings do you recommend?
Along with yogurt and cilantro, try avocado slices, diced onions, or fresh radishes for added crunch.Is there a gluten-free option?
Yes, just make sure to use corn tortillas certified gluten-free and double-check your taco seasoning ingredients.How spicy is this casserole?
The spice level can be adjusted based on the taco seasoning used and any additional spices you decide to add. You can always tone it down by selecting milder ingredients.Can I cook this in a crockpot?
Yes, you can sauté the ingredients in a skillet, then transfer them to a crockpot to cook on low for 4-6 hours, adding cheese in the last 30 minutes.
Conclusion
Ground Chicken Taco Casserole is a delicious, healthy, and versatile meal perfect for any occasion. With its simple preparation and robust flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or serving it up at a gathering, this casserole will impress everyone around the table. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your cooking experience in the comments! Happy cooking!
Ground Chicken Taco Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Heat the olive oil in a large 12-inch oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the ground chicken to the hot skillet and let it brown undisturbed for 3-4 minutes. After that, break it into pieces and cook until no pink remains, about 3-4 more minutes.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked chicken and stir until evenly distributed, about 30 seconds.
- Add the undrained pinto beans, tomatoes and green chiles, frozen corn, and broth to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined, about 1 minute.
- Fold in the tortilla strips, distributing them throughout the mixture. Top evenly with shredded cheese.
- Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.