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Chicken Taco Casserole

Chicken Taco Casserole


  • Author: Christopher
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Chicken Taco Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring layers of tender chicken seasoned with bold taco spices, smoky smoked turkey bacon and smoked turkey slices, black beans, fresh vegetables, and melty plant-based cheese. Enhanced with a natural gelling agent for perfect texture, it is easy to prepare, family-friendly, and customizable to meet your favorite taco toppings or dietary preferences, making it an effortless, delicious meal for any occasion.


Ingredients

Proteins

  • Chicken breasts – 3 medium, boneless and skinless
  • Smoked turkey bacon – 4 slices
  • Smoked turkey slices – 4 slices, chopped
  • Black beans – 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed

Vegetables & Fresh Ingredients

  • Chopped tomatoes – 1 can (14.5 oz), drained
  • Red bell peppers – 1 medium, diced
  • Green onions – 3 stalks, sliced

Seasonings & Flavorings

  • Taco seasoning blend (chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder) – 2 tbsp
  • Apple cider vinegar (natural) – 1 tbsp

Other Ingredients

  • Plant-based cheese, shredded – 2 cups
  • Natural gelling agent – 1 tsp

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken and Smoked Turkey Bacon: Cook the chicken breasts in a skillet seasoned with the taco seasoning blend until golden brown and fully cooked through. In a separate pan, cook the smoked turkey bacon until crispy, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Assemble the Base Layers: In a casserole dish, layer the chopped smoked turkey slices first, followed by black beans, cooked smoked turkey bacon, and diced red bell peppers to create a hearty foundation.
  3. Add Tomato Mixture and Natural Gelling Agent: Combine chopped tomatoes with apple cider vinegar (natural) and the natural gelling agent, then spread evenly over the base layers to add moisture and help bind the casserole.
  4. Top with Plant-Based Cheese and Green Onions: Generously sprinkle shredded plant-based cheese on top, then add sliced green onions for fresh flavor and color.
  5. Bake Until Golden and Bubbling: Place the assembled casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the edges turn golden brown.

Notes

  • Prep ahead by cooking the chicken and smoked turkey bacon a day before to save time.
  • Use freshly ground spices for an enhanced taco seasoning flavor.
  • Gently fold ingredients when mixing to keep layers distinct for presentation.
  • Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking to set perfectly with the natural gelling agent.
  • Adjust the amount of plant-based cheese to your preference for gooeyness.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 580 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: Chicken casserole, taco casserole, plant-based cheese, gluten-free casserole, smoked turkey bacon, Mexican flavors