Mexican Trash Casserole with Chicken

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Mexican Trash Casserole with Chicken

Introduction

Looking for a comforting, easy-to-make dinner that’s packed with bold flavors? This Mexican Trash Casserole with Chicken is just the dish you need! Combining shredded chicken, beans, corn, tomatoes, cheese, and tortillas, it creates a mouth-watering layered casserole that’s both creamy and cheesy. Perfect for a family dinner or a gathering, this dish will surely become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This

  • Quick and Easy: Made with pantry staples, this casserole comes together in under an hour.
  • Customizable: Adjust the spice level, add extra veggies, or switch up the protein for endless variations.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: With its cheesy, creamy layers, it’s a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.
  • Great for Leftovers: Reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep and quick lunches throughout the week.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken is an excellent option).
  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
  • 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel), drained
  • 1 (10 oz) can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 8-10 small flour tortillas, cut into strips
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it preheat.).
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, salsa, and taco seasoning. Mix the ingredients well until they are fully combined..
  3. Layer the Casserole:
    • Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
    • Place a layer of tortilla strips on the bottom of the dish.
    • Layer half of the chicken mixture on top of the tortilla strips.
    • Top with 1 cup of shredded Mexican cheese blend.
    • Repeat the layers: another layer of tortilla strips, the remaining chicken mixture, and the final cup of cheese.
  4. Bake: Place aluminum foil over the dish and bake it in the preheated oven for 20 minutes..  Take off the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling
  5. After removing from the oven, allow it to rest and cool for a few minutes. Add a garnish of chopped green onions and fresh cilantro.. Serve warm with your favorite toppings like guacamole, sour cream, or salsa.

Serving and Storage Tips

  • Serving: This casserole is perfect when served with Mexican rice, a simple green salad, or tortilla chips. Top it with extra salsa, guacamole, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.
  • Storage: place any remaining casserole in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
  • Freezing: This casserole can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Wrap it securely in foil and place it in a container safe for freezing.. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

This Mexican Trash Casserole with Chicken is not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber. Here’s a quick overview of its nutritional benefits:

  • High in Protein: The shredded chicken provides a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
  • Fiber-Rich: Black beans and corn add a good amount of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and keeping you full longer.
  • Calcium and Vitamins: The cheese and sour cream contribute calcium, while the tomatoes and salsa provide vitamins A and C.
  • Customizable for Health: Swap out regular tortillas for whole-grain or low-carb versions, use low-fat cheese and sour cream, or add more vegetables for a lighter version.

FAQs

  1. Can I use a different type of meat?
    Yes! Ground beef, turkey, or even shredded pork can be used instead of chicken.
  2. Is it possible to prepare this casserole in advance?
    Absolutely. You can assemble the casserole the day before and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
  3. Can I make it spicier?
    Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or use a spicier salsa to increase the heat level.
  4. Can I add more vegetables?
    Definitely. Bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or even spinach would make great additions.
  5. Can I use canned chicken?
    Yes, canned chicken works in a pinch, though freshly shredded or rotisserie chicken is preferable for the best flavor.
  6. Is there a vegetarian version?
    Yes, omit the chicken and use more beans, corn, and veggies for a vegetarian version.
  7. What alternatives can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
    You can use cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade version using chicken broth, milk, and flour.
  8. Can corn tortillas be substituted for flour tortillas?
    Yes, corn tortillas can be used for a slightly different texture and flavor.
  9. How do I prevent the casserole from getting soggy?
    Drain all canned ingredients well and avoid adding too much liquid.
  10. Is it okay to use fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones?
    Yes, diced fresh tomatoes with added green chilies would work well as a substitute.

Enjoy your delicious and customizable Mexican Trash Casserole with Chicken—a perfect addition to your dinner rotation!

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