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This Mix & Bake Chicken Taco Casserole is the easiest comfort meal for busy nights! Perfect for back-to-school or hectic work weeks, this family-favorite recipe combines juicy chicken, rice, melted cheese, black beans, corn, and salsa-style tomatoes — all baked together in ONE dish. Just mix, bake, and serve with fresh taco toppings for a delicious dinner everyone will ask for again and again!
Ingredients
Casserole:
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1 pound boneless chicken tenders/strips, cut into chunks
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1/4 cup taco seasoning
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 tablespoons salted butter
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1 cup dry rice (long-grain or jasmine)
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1 yellow onion, chopped
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2 poblano peppers, chopped
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1 cup fresh or frozen corn
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1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes (or diced tomatoes with chilies)
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1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
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1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
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2 cups chicken broth (for cooking rice while baking)
For Serving (Optional but yummy!)
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Greek yogurt or sour cream
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Shredded lettuce or green onions
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Fresh cilantro
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Avocado slices
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Tortilla strips or chips
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2️⃣ In a large bowl, combine chopped chicken, taco seasoning, and olive oil. Mix well to coat.
3️⃣ Melt butter in a skillet and sauté the onion and poblano peppers until slightly soft, 3–4 minutes.
4️⃣ Add rice, corn, black beans, Rotel tomatoes, sautéed veggies, and seasoned chicken into a large baking dish.
5️⃣ Pour chicken broth over the mixture and gently stir to combine.
6️⃣ Cover tightly with foil and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through.
7️⃣ Remove foil and sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
8️⃣ Bake uncovered for 8–10 more minutes until cheese melts and turns golden.
9️⃣ Let rest for 5 minutes, then add all your favorite taco toppings.
Tips & Variations
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🚫 No poblano peppers? Use bell peppers instead.
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🌶️ Want more heat? Add sliced jalapeños!
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🍚 If using instant rice, reduce bake time by 10 minutes.
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🧀 Add extra cheese for a gooey topping!
How to Store
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Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days
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Freeze leftovers up to 2 months
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Reheat covered in oven or microwave until hot