Are you looking for a quick, easy, and flavorful meal that the whole family will love? Look no further than this Cheesy Frito Taco Casserole with Ground Chicken! This dish is a perfect combination of crunchy, cheesy, and spicy flavors, all baked into a casserole that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. It’s ideal for weeknights when you want something filling but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With layers of seasoned ground chicken, black beans, melted cheese, and Frito chips, this casserole brings all the best parts of a taco to the dinner table in one satisfying dish.
Let’s dive into the details and explore why this casserole is bound to become a staple in your meal rotation, from prep to serving and everything in between.
Ingredients for Cheesy Frito Taco Casserole
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to gather before you begin:
- 1 lb ground chicken (substitute with ground beef or turkey if preferred)
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1/2 can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 bag Frito corn chips
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can enchilada sauce (10 oz)
- 2 oz cream cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheese (Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
Step-by-Step Directions for a Perfect Cheesy Frito Taco Casserole
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by spraying it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Chicken and Onion
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground chicken along with the sliced onion until the chicken is fully cooked and the onions are soft and translucent. This should take about 6-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to break up the meat and ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Add Rotel and Taco Seasoning
Once the chicken and onions are cooked, add the 1/2 can of Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies) and the packet of taco seasoning to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the liquid has mostly evaporated, intensifying the flavors.
Step 4: Incorporate Black Beans and Cream Cheese
Next, stir in the black beans and cream cheese. Cook on low heat until the cream cheese is fully melted and has blended smoothly into the mixture. This will give the casserole its creamy texture.
Step 5: Add Enchilada Sauce
Once the cream cheese has melted, pour in the enchilada sauce. Stir everything together until well combined. Your taco filling is now ready to layer in the casserole!
Step 6: Layer the Casserole
In your prepared baking dish, start by spreading half of the Frito corn chips on the bottom of the dish. Then, spoon half of the meat mixture over the chips, and sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining Fritos, meat mixture, and shredded cheese.
Step 7: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The casserole should be heated through, and the Fritos will remain crunchy, creating a perfect contrast with the gooey cheese.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This will help the layers set, making it easier to cut into portions. Serve with your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for an extra punch of flavor.
Helpful Notes
- Substitutions: You can substitute the ground chicken with ground beef or turkey based on your preference.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, omit the meat and double the black beans or add some sautéed bell peppers.
- Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier dish, use a hot version of Rotel or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the meat mixture.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this casserole with a simple side salad to balance the richness of the dish.
- Add a dollop of sour cream, a spoonful of guacamole, or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro to enhance the flavor.
- For an extra crunch, top with more Fritos just before serving.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven for best results.
- Freezer: This casserole freezes well! Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as instructed.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Bobby Flay suggests using freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded for a meltier, smoother texture.
- Rachael Ray advises adding a splash of lime juice to the finished casserole for a bright, fresh note that cuts through the richness of the dish.
- Guy Fieri recommends serving the casserole with pickled jalapeños for an extra kick of flavor that complements the Fritos and cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil until you’re ready to bake.
2. Can I use a different type of chip?
Yes, you can substitute the Frito corn chips with tortilla chips or even Doritos for a fun twist.
3. How do I prevent the Fritos from getting soggy?
To keep the Fritos crunchy, serve the casserole immediately after baking. You can also reserve some fresh Fritos to sprinkle on top just before serving.
4. Can I make this casserole spicier?
Yes! Add diced jalapeños, use hot Rotel, or increase the amount of taco seasoning for a spicier version.
5. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Feel free to use any cheese that melts well. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend work great, but you could also try pepper jack for added spice.
6. What toppings go well with this casserole?
Sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and chopped cilantro are great toppings. You could also add chopped green onions or diced tomatoes.
7. Can I freeze this casserole after it’s been cooked?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked casserole, though the Fritos may lose some of their crunch. Wrap it well in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
8. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, you can omit the meat and add extra beans, vegetables, or tofu to make it vegetarian-friendly.
9. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat leftovers in the microwave or cover the casserole with foil and reheat it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
10. Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, corn, or diced zucchini are great additions that add flavor and nutrition.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Frito Taco Casserole with Ground Chicken is an irresistible weeknight dinner that combines all the bold, zesty flavors of a taco into one easy-to-make dish. Whether you’re serving it to your family or bringing it to a potluck, this casserole is sure to be a hit. With just a few simple steps and pantry-friendly ingredients, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Be sure to top it with your favorite taco toppings and enjoy the crunchy, cheesy goodness!