Skinny Chicken Tortilla Casserole

Skinny Chicken Tortilla Casserole

When I first discovered the Skinny Chicken Tortilla Casserole, it felt like a revelation! On busy weeknights, I often found myself scrambling for something healthy yet satisfying to feed my family. One evening, I came across this recipe that promised to be both wholesome and delicious. The combination of tender chicken, tangy salsa, and creamy yogurt sparked my curiosity. As I prepared this dish, the delightful aroma filled my kitchen, instantly bringing everyone to the table. It became a family favorite, and now, it’s a go-to recipe whenever the cravings hit. There’s something special about a casserole—a comforting, layered meal that warms both the belly and the heart!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
40 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
300 kcal
Protein:
25 g
Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
Fat:
10 g
Tools Used:
Whisk, Cutting Board, Wooden Spoon, Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Food Processor

Why You’ll Love This Skinny Chicken Tortilla Casserole

Healthy Ingredients

The Skinny Chicken Tortilla Casserole features wholesome ingredients that are not only nutritious but also packed with flavor. Each component adds a unique texture and taste, making this dish a balanced meal.

Easy to Prepare

This recipe is incredibly straightforward. With just a few simple steps, you can have a hearty meal on the table in no time. The ease of preparation means that even novice cooks can pull it off without a hitch!

Versatile and Customizable

Feel free to experiment with different ingredients. You can swap out the proteins or add your favorite veggies to the mix. This casserole is adaptable to various dietary preferences, making it a great choice for family gatherings.

Great for Meal Prep

If you’re into meal prepping, this casserole is perfect! It holds up well in the fridge and can even be frozen for later. Just make sure to let it cool completely before storing.

Flavorful Layers

The layering technique not only adds visual appeal but also maximizes flavor. Each bite is a delightful combination of textures from the tortillas, chicken, and cheese, making it hard to resist second helpings!

Kid-Friendly

Kids will love this dish! The familiar flavors of chicken and cheese, combined with the fun of tortillas, make it a hit with little ones. Plus, you can sneak in some veggies without them even noticing!

Skinny Chicken Tortilla Casserole Ingredients

Skinny Chicken Tortilla Casserole

The ingredients for the Skinny Chicken Tortilla Casserole are not only delicious but also work harmoniously together to create a balanced meal. The star ingredients include chicken, Greek yogurt, and corn, each contributing to the flavor and nutrition of the dish. This blend ensures your casserole is creamy, hearty, and absolutely satisfying.

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt, fat-free
  • 1/2 cup skim milk
  • 1 cup salsa, sugar-free
  • 3 cups chicken, cooked and shredded (from about 1 pound chicken breasts)
  • 1 cup corn kernels, frozen
  • 1 red bell pepper, medium, diced
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, reduced-fat, shredded
  • 12 corn tortillas, 6 inch

How to Assemble Skinny Chicken Tortilla Casserole

Skinny Chicken Tortilla Casserole

Assembling the Skinny Chicken Tortilla Casserole is a fun process! It’s all about layering those delightful ingredients to create a comforting dish that everyone will enjoy. Follow these easy steps to create your own masterpiece.

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. While it’s heating up, take a 13×9 casserole dish and spray it with nonstick spray to ensure nothing sticks.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, skim milk, and salsa until well combined. This will serve as the creamy base for your casserole.
  3. Now, add in the chicken, corn, bell pepper, and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir to combine, making sure everything is well-coated in the creamy mixture.
  4. Take 4 of the corn tortillas and arrange them over the bottom of your casserole dish, overlapping them if necessary to cover the base.
  5. Spread 1/3 of the chicken mixture on top of the tortillas, ensuring an even layer. This is where the magic begins!
  6. Cover the chicken mixture with another 4 corn tortillas, repeating the layering process.
  7. Once you’ve added the last layer of tortillas, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. This will create a lovely golden crust when baked.
  8. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. You want it to be warm and bubbly.
  9. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the cheese to become lightly browned and delicious.
  10. Once it’s done, let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set, making it easier to serve.

Things Worth Knowing

  • Layering matters: Make sure to layer properly for the best texture and flavor.
  • Resting time: Letting the casserole sit after baking enhances the flavors and makes it easier to slice.
  • Cheese choices: You can experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors.
  • Ingredient freshness: Use fresh vegetables for the best taste and nutritional value.

Make It Your Own

Skinny Chicken Tortilla Casserole

Don’t hesitate to personalize the Skinny Chicken Tortilla Casserole to your liking! There are so many ways to make this dish your own.

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven.
  • Freezing: Yes, you can freeze this casserole! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
  • Pairing: Serve with a side salad to add freshness and balance to the meal.
  • Vegetarian option: Substitute the chicken with black beans or lentils for a vegetarian-friendly version.
  • Add spices: Enhance the flavor by adding spices like cumin or chili powder to the mixture.

Best Served With

When it comes to serving the Skinny Chicken Tortilla Casserole, the options are delightful! Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

  • Fresh salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole.
  • Guacamole: Serve with some homemade guacamole for an extra layer of creaminess.
  • Rice: Pair it with a side of brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and nutrition.
  • Seasonal veggies: Roasted seasonal vegetables provide a healthy and colorful accompaniment.
  • Chips: Tortilla chips on the side add a fun crunch and can be used for scooping.

FAQ

Absolutely! This casserole is ideal for meal prep. You can assemble it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to cover it tightly with foil. When you’re ready to cook, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time because it will be cold from the fridge.

If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, you can substitute it with plain yogurt or sour cream. Both options will give your casserole the creamy texture you’re looking for. Just be aware that sour cream will change the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious!

The level of spice in the Skinny Chicken Tortilla Casserole primarily depends on the salsa you use. If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for a mild salsa. Conversely, if you like a kick, go for a spicy one! You can also add jalapeños for an extra level of heat!

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies to the mix. Chopped spinach, zucchini, or even mushrooms can be delicious additions. Just remember to chop them finely so they mix well with the other ingredients and cook evenly.

Conclusion

The Skinny Chicken Tortilla Casserole is truly a family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again. Its comforting layers and delightful flavors make it perfect for any occasion. If you haven’t tried it yet, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and give this recipe a go. Your taste buds will thank you!

Skinny Chicken Tortilla Casserole

Skinny Chicken Tortilla Casserole

The ultimate comfort food, this Skinny Chicken Tortilla Casserole brings together creamy, cheesy goodness with the satisfying crunch of tortillas. A perfect dish for busy weeknights, it combines easy prep with comforting flavors that everyone will love. Make it tonight and watch it disappear!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt fat-free
  • 1/2 cup skim milk
  • 1 cup salsa sugar-free
  • 3 cups chicken cooked, shredded (from about 1 pound chicken breasts)
  • 1 cup corn kernels frozen
  • 1 red bell pepper medium, diced
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese reduced-fat, shredded
  • 12 corn tortillas 6 inch

Equipment

  • Whisk
  • Cutting Board
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Oven
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Food Processor

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 13x9 casserole dish with nonstick spray and set aside.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, skim milk, and salsa.
  3. Add the chicken, corn, bell pepper, and half of the cheddar cheese and stir to combine.
  4. Arrange 4 of the corn tortillas over the bottom of the casserole dish, overlapping if necessary.
  5. Top the tortillas with 1/3 of the chicken mixture. Cover the chicken with 4 tortillas and repeat the process.
  6. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of the final layer of tortillas and bake for 30 minutes, covered with aluminum foil, until the mixture is warm and bubbly.
  7. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is lightly browned.
  8. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Yes, you can freeze this casserole! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
  • Pairing: Serve with a side salad to add freshness and balance to the meal.
  • Vegetarian option: Substitute the chicken with black beans or lentils for a vegetarian-friendly version.
  • Add spices: Enhance the flavor by adding spices like cumin or chili powder to the mixture.

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