Imagine a dish that combines the bold, zesty flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine with the comforting warmth of a home-cooked casserole. This Chicken Tex Mex Bake is not just another dinner recipe – it's a culinary adventure that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have your family begging for seconds! Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this recipe promises to deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup tortilla chips, crushed
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, drained black beans, and corn. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Add salsa, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the chicken mixture. Stir well to coat all ingredients with the spices and salsa.
- Transfer the mixed ingredients into the prepared baking dish, spreading them evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the chicken mixture, ensuring complete coverage.
- Crush the tortilla chips into small pieces and sprinkle them over the cheese layer for added crunch and texture.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling and the edges are slightly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the ingredients to set.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or additional salsa if desired.
Tips
- Use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
- For a spicier version, choose a hot salsa or add some diced jalapeños to the mix.
- Make sure to drain beans and corn thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in the dish.
- For a crispy top, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes after baking to get a golden, crunchy cheese crust.
- Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack or a Mexican cheese blend for varied flavor profiles.
- This dish is incredibly versatile - feel free to add bell peppers, onions, or swap ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheat beautifully in the oven or microwave.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 340kcal
Carbohydrates: 26g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 50mg
