Description

Looking for a flavorful and easy-to-make dish to brighten up your weeknight dinners? Look no further than this Fiesta Chicken Casserole recipe! Bursting with vibrant colors and bold flavors, this casserole is a delicious twist on traditional comfort food. With tender shredded chicken, hearty black beans, sweet corn kernels, zesty salsa, and creamy sour cream, every bite is a fiesta for your taste buds. Plus, topped with gooey melted cheese, it’s guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring the party to your dinner table!

Ingredients

2 ½ cups cooked and shredded chicken
1 cup corn kernels
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup salsa
1 cup sour cream
10 oz pasta
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
2 cups Mexican cheese blend

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking this delightful casserole.
Start by cooking the pasta. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta for about 2 minutes less than the package instructions suggest. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, salsa, and taco seasoning. Stir until all the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated, creating a creamy and flavorful base for your casserole.
Now, add in the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and 1 cup of the Mexican cheese blend into the sour cream mixture. Gently fold everything together until the ingredients are evenly distributed, ensuring each spoonful is packed with flavor.
Next, fold in the cooked pasta until it’s well coated with the creamy mixture. Transfer the entire mixture into a large casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top of the casserole, creating a tantalizing layer of melted goodness that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Dish out generous portions of this Fiesta Chicken Casserole onto plates and watch as your family digs in with delight. Serve hot and enjoy the explosion of flavors in every bite!

Notes

Serving Suggestions: Serve this Fiesta Chicken Casserole hot straight from the oven for maximum flavor and cheesy goodness. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread to complete the meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for an extra touch of flavor and texture.
Portion Control: Depending on the size of your casserole dish and appetite of your guests, this recipe serves approximately 6 people. Adjust the serving size accordingly to accommodate more or fewer guests.
Leftover Love: If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare with this delicious dish!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Freezing Option: This casserole also freezes well, making it a convenient option for meal prep or future dinners. After baking, allow the casserole to cool completely, then tightly wrap the dish in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator and then bake it in a preheated oven until heated through.
Customization: Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach for more nutrition and flavor. For a spicier kick, use hot salsa or add diced jalapeños to the mix. You can also swap out the protein by using cooked ground beef or turkey instead of chicken.