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Dump and Bake Chicken Taco Casserole

This layered chicken taco casserole blends tender shredded chicken with creamy, cheesy sauce, colorful vegetables, and broken tortilla chips for a nostalgic, satisfying bake—spicy, melty, and perfect for feeding a family or crowd.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups coarsely crushed tortilla chips
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cooked and shredded
  • 1 4 oz can chopped green chilies (drained)
  • 1½ cups frozen corn thawed
  • 2 –3 tablespoons taco seasoning adjust to taste
  • 1 12 oz can cheesy chicken-flavored condensed soup (e.g., Campbell’s or similar)
  • Milk to thin sauce to a pourable consistency—about ½ cup (adjust)
  • 1 14.5 oz can petite diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican‑blend cheese
  • For serving: sliced green onions black olives, diced avocado, salsa, sour cream, additional crushed chips

Instructions
 

  • Preheat & prep dish: Preheat oven to 400 °F. Spray a 13x9-inch casserole dish with cooking spray.
  • Layer chips and chicken: Spread broken chips evenly in the bottom. Top with shredded chicken, green chilies, and corn. Sprinkle taco seasoning evenly.
  • Prepare cheese sauce: In a bowl, whisk condensed soup with milk until smooth and pourable. Pour sauce evenly over the casserole.
  • Bake covered: Cover with foil and bake 20 minutes.
  • Add toppings: Remove foil, evenly scatter diced tomatoes and shredded cheese over top.
  • Bake uncovered: Return to oven for 15–20 more minutes until cheese is melted and edges lightly golden.
  • Serve: Top with green onions, olives, avocado, salsa, sour cream, and extra crushed chips.

Notes

  • Chip base moisture: Use a little less milk if chips seem soggy; more if sauce is too thick.
  • Spice control: Increase or reduce taco seasoning for different heat levels.
  • Alternate proteins: Substitute shredded rotisserie chicken or turkey for cooked breasts.
  • Make‑ahead: Assemble ahead, refrigerate, and bake before serving—add a few extra minutes if chilled.
  • Cheese variation: Mix pepper jack or Monterey jack for extra melt and flavor.
  • Presentation: Broil for 1‑2 minutes at end for bubbly golden top.