Chicken Taco Casserole with Cabbage 🌮🥬

This delightful casserole combines the savory flavors of your favorite tacos with the wholesome goodness of cabbage. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights, and customizable to suit your taste buds. This dish is hearty, fun, and bursting with flavor, making it an excellent choice for a family dinner or a cozy gathering!

Ingredients

For the casserole

• 1 lb ground chicken (or shredded cooked chicken)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 2 cups cabbage, chopped (green or purple for color!)
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
• 1 cup salsa (your choice of mild or spicy)
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the topping

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Avocado, sliced
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Lime wedges

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Combine ingredients: Add the ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until no longer pink. Stir in the taco seasoning, black beans, corn, cabbage, and salsa. Mix until everything is well combined and heated through.

   🥄 Feel free to add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or jalapeños for extra veggies and flavor!

4. Layer and bake: Transfer half of the chicken mixture to a large baking dish. Sprinkle a third of the cheese over the mixture, then add the remaining chicken mixture, and top with the rest of the cheese.

5. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve it up: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. Serve with lime wedges on the side for a zesty finish!

   🍽️ This dish pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips or a fresh side salad!

Variations

• Protein swap: Use ground turkey, beef, or even plant-based ground meat for a different flavor profile.
• Cheesy goodness: Mix in cream cheese or sour cream directly into the chicken mixture for extra creaminess.
• Low-carb: Substitute cabbage for a layer of cauliflower rice or leave out the beans and corn for a lower-carb option.
• Spicy kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce before baking to spice things up! 🌶️

This Chicken Taco Casserole with Cabbage is a comforting and satisfying dish that brings together all the flavors of a taco night with the ease of a casserole. Enjoy every bite! 🌮❤️