Tex-Mex Squash and Chicken Casserole Recipe 🥘
If you’re on the lookout for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and offers a delightful Tex-Mex twist, look no further! This Tex-Mex Squash and Chicken Casserole is a perfect harmony of vibrant vegetables, tender chicken, gooey cheese, and zesty spices, all baked together to create a satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. With its easy-to-follow steps and wholesome ingredients, this recipe is a winner for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Let’s dive into the kitchen and whip up this delectable dish!
Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantities |
|---|---|
| Frozen chopped spinach | 1 package |
| Red bell pepper | 3 |
| Yellow onion | 1 |
| Chicken | 1 pound |
| Turkey | 2 cups |
| 6-inch corn tortillas | 3 |
| Sour cream | 12 ounces |
| Green chilies | 1 can |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 1 1/2 cups |
Instructions:
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Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by pressing the spinach between paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring the casserole maintains the perfect consistency. Set aside for later use.
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Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the diced squash, red bell peppers, and onions, and sauté until they become tender and fragrant, which should take approximately 6 minutes. Once done, remove the skillet from heat and set aside.
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Combine the Ingredients: Now, it’s time to bring all the flavors together! Add the pressed spinach, cooked chicken (you can use shredded or diced pieces), and the remaining ingredients including turkey, corn tortillas (cut into small pieces), sour cream, and green chilies to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
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Add Cheese: What’s a Tex-Mex casserole without a generous layer of melted cheese? Stir in 1 1/2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese into the mixture until it’s evenly distributed, adding a creamy richness to every bite.
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Transfer to Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 13×9 inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Transfer the Tex-Mex mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure every spoonful is packed with flavor.
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Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the casserole for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the edges to turn golden brown.
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Final Touch: As the casserole nears perfection, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top, creating a deliciously gooey crust. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the cheese is perfectly melted and the aroma fills the kitchen, remove the casserole from the oven. Allow it to cool slightly before serving. Then, dish out generous portions onto plates and savor the flavors of this Tex-Mex delight!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 339.7
- Fat: 21.7g
- Saturated Fat: 10.6g
- Cholesterol: 49.4mg
- Sodium: 613.6mg
- Carbohydrates: 26.2g
- Fiber: 5.2g
- Sugar: 7.2g
- Protein: 13.1g
Serving Suggestions:
This Tex-Mex Squash and Chicken Casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette dressing or a side of warm, fluffy rice. You can also garnish each serving with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner with friends or simply craving a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful, this Tex-Mex Squash and Chicken Casserole is sure to hit the spot. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a culinary adventure that’s as delicious as it is easy to make!
