Chicken Taco Casserole with Rice

Flavorful Chicken Taco Casserole with Rice: A Crowd-Pleasing Favorite

Are you craving a delicious and satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor? Look no further than our Chicken Taco Casserole with Rice! This hearty dish combines tender shredded chicken, zesty salsa, black beans, and vibrant peppers, all layered with fluffy rice and topped with a crunchy tortilla chip crust. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a dinner party, this casserole is sure to impress. Join us as we dive into the ingredients, instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions of this mouthwatering recipe.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups shredded chicken (I used breasts)
  • 15 – 18 oz can black beans (my store only had 540ml cans)
  • 1 red bell pepper
  • 1 green pepper
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 cups salsa of choice
  • 2 tbsp taco seasoning
  • 2 cups cooked rice of choice
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups crushed tortilla chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter.

2. Prepare the Ingredients:

  1. Shred the cooked chicken and set it aside.
  2. Rinse and drain the black beans.
  3. Dice the red and green bell peppers.

3. Mix the Casserole:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, diced bell peppers, frozen corn, sour cream, salsa, taco seasoning, cooked rice, shredded cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

4. Assemble the Casserole:

  1. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  2. Sprinkle the crushed tortilla chips over the top of the casserole, creating a crunchy crust.

5. Bake the Casserole:

  1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly.
  2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the tortilla chips are golden brown and crispy.

6. Garnish and Serve:

  1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
  2. Garnish with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and extra salsa, if desired.
  3. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors of this Chicken Taco Casserole with Rice!

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings, such as sliced jalapeños, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream.
  • Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add extra beans or tofu for a vegetarian version of this dish.
  • Spice It Up: Adjust the level of heat by using mild, medium, or hot salsa, and adding extra taco seasoning or diced chili peppers.

Keto Versions and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

  • Replace Rice: Substitute cauliflower rice for traditional rice to reduce the carb content.
  • Low-Carb Tortilla Chips: Look for low-carb or keto-friendly tortilla chips, or skip them altogether.

Low-Carb Version:

  • Limit Beans and Corn: Reduce the amount of black beans and corn to lower the carb count.
  • Use Cauliflower: Replace the rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken for added convenience.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly with aluminum foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply follow the remaining instructions, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.

3. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, leftovers can be frozen for future meals. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer individual portions to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Indulge in the bold flavors and satisfying textures of our Chicken Taco Casserole with Rice. This crowd-pleasing dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering a hearty and wholesome meal that’s easy to prepare and full of Mexican-inspired goodness. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle, watching your carbs, or simply craving a comforting dinner, this casserole is sure to hit the spot. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste sensation that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Savor the taste of our Chicken Taco Casserole with Rice—a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!