Description
This Chicken Taco Casserole is a vibrant, comforting, and easy-to-make dish perfect for family dinners. Featuring tender shredded chicken, smoky turkey bacon, and melty plant-based cheese, it’s packed with fresh vegetables, flavorful spices, and wholesome ingredients that bring zest and warmth to every bite. Ideal for busy households, this casserole offers flexibility for all tastes and dietary preferences while delivering a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Cheese
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 6 slices smoked turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 1/2 cups shredded plant-based cheese (plant-based)
Vegetables and Beans
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Seasonings and Sauces
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (natural)
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all fresh ingredients and pre-cooked chicken, dice the onions and garlic, crisp the smoked turkey bacon in a pan, and have your canned ingredients ready to go. This preparation keeps your cooking flow smooth and organized.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté the diced onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. This step releases deep flavors that form the casserole’s tasty foundation.
- Combine Key Ingredients: Add shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and taco seasoning (natural) into the skillet. Stir well to mix all ingredients evenly. Pour in vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) and apple cider vinegar (natural) to enhance umami and brightness.
- Mix in the Natural Gelling Agent: Sprinkle the natural gelling agent evenly into the mixture to help bind it together during baking, ensuring each slice holds nicely without losing moisture.
- Assemble and Top: Transfer the combined mixture to a casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle shredded plant-based cheese (plant-based) on top, then add the crispy smoked turkey bacon bits over the cheese.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to maintain its structure and allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- Use shredded rotisserie chicken for juicy, flavorful results without extra effort.
- Don’t skip sautéing the onions and garlic to unlock intense aromas that elevate the dish.
- Choose a good-quality plant-based cheese (plant-based) that melts smoothly for a creamy finish.
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving so it cuts neatly and holds together well.
- Add freshly chopped cilantro last to keep the flavor bright and fresh.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 1/6 of casserole)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: chicken taco casserole, easy casserole, family dinner, plant-based cheese, gluten free, turkey bacon, Mexican-inspired
