Description
A quick and family-friendly Chicken Taco Casserole featuring shredded chicken, smoked turkey bacon, and layers of plant-based cheese, black beans, and vibrant vegetables. This Mexican-inspired baked dish delivers comforting, cheesy layers with a crispy tortilla chip topping, perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins and Cheese
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
- 6 slices smoked turkey bacon, cooked crisp and chopped
- 1 1/2 cups plant-based cheese, shredded
Vegetables and Beans
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Flavorings and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning blend (natural) (cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano)
Other
- 2 cups crushed tortilla chips (certified gluten-free if needed)
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken and turkey bacon: Cook the chicken breast until tender, then shred finely. Cook the smoked turkey bacon until crisp and chop into bite-sized pieces to add a smoky and savory layer to the casserole.
- Sauté the aromatics and vegetables: Heat some oil in a skillet, then sauté the diced onions, garlic, and green bell pepper until softened and fragrant to build a flavorful base.
- Combine the filling ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, chopped turkey bacon, sautéed vegetables, black beans, chopped tomatoes, taco seasoning blend (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar, and a small amount of natural gelling agent to bind the mixture as it bakes.
- Assemble the casserole: Spread a layer of crushed tortilla chips evenly on the bottom of a casserole dish. Add the chicken mixture in an even layer, then top with a generous layer of plant-based cheese. Repeat the layers if space allows, finishing with a cheese layer to form a golden crust.
- Bake until bubbly and golden: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the casserole for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese melts beautifully and the edges bubble. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set.
Notes
- Use leftover cooked chicken to reduce prep time and limit waste.
- Don’t omit the apple cider vinegar; it adds a necessary brightness balancing rich flavors.
- Opt for fresh vegetables to keep the casserole crisp and vibrant.
- Layer gently to keep textures distinct and avoid compressing the ingredients.
- Let the casserole rest before slicing for cleaner cuts and better presentation.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6 of casserole)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
Keywords: Chicken taco casserole, smoked turkey bacon, plant-based cheese, Mexican casserole, family dinner, gluten-free casserole
