Smoky Chipotle Chicken Taco Bake: A Flavorful and Easy Dinner Recipe
As the weather starts to cool down, our taste buds begin to crave warm, comforting dishes that evoke a sense of coziness and satisfaction. One such dish that fits the bill is the Smoky Chipotle Chicken Taco Bake, a mouth-watering, easy-to-make recipe that combines the bold flavors of chipotle peppers with the comfort of a casserole.
In this article, we’ll explore the ingredients, preparation, and benefits of this delicious Smoky Chipotle Chicken Taco Bake, as well as provide a simple recipe to try at home.
What is a Smoky Chipotle Chicken Taco Bake?
A Smoky Chipotle Chicken Taco Bake is a Mexican-inspired casserole that features juicy chicken breast cooked in a spicy chipotle tomato sauce, served atop a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, crispy tortilla strips, and melted cheese. The dish boasts an impressive balance of smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients and Nutrition
To make this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 can of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 6-8 tortilla strips, crispy fried
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
This dish is relatively low in calories, with approximately 340 calories per serving. It’s also a great source of protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it an excellent choice for a meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.
Preparation and Cooking
To prepare the Smoky Chipotle Chicken Taco Bake, follow these simple steps:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the chicken breast to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the chipotle peppers, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the chicken and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange a layer of mashed potatoes, followed by a layer of chicken and chipotle mixture, then a sprinkle of cheese. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
- Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Conclusion
The Smoky Chipotle Chicken Taco Bake is a scrumptious, easy-to-make recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With its bold flavors and creamy texture, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the magic of a delicious, smoky chipotle chicken taco bake!
Smoky Chipotle Chicken Taco Bake
Full recipe including video: [https://cookwitheugene.substack.com/p/smoky-chipotle-chicken-taco-bake](https://cookwitheugene.substack.com/p/smoky-chipotle-chicken-taco-bake)
# Ingredients
* 8 small flour tortillas (approx. 20cm / 8 in)
* 1 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for brushing
* 1 red onion, thinly sliced
* 400g (14 oz) canned cherry tomatoes (can also use fresh)
* 2 tbsp chipotle sauce (from canned chipotle peppers), plus 1 finely chopped pepper
* 1 tbsp honey
* 3 small chicken breasts (approx. 180g each), thinly sliced
* 2 tsp smoked paprika
* 400g (14 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
* Salt and freshly cracked black pepper
* 1½ cups (180g / 6½ oz) shredded cheddar or manchego cheese
* Chopped avocado, fresh coriander, sliced jalapeño, and lime wedges for serving
# Method
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 21cm x 28cm (8¼ in x 11 in) baking dish with oil.
2. Lightly brush both sides of the tortillas with oil and press them into the dish, slightly overlapping, to form a cup-like shape.
3. Heat a large pan over medium heat and add a drizzle of oil. Sauté the onion for 3 minutes, then add the tomatoes, chipotle sauce, chopped chipotle pepper, and honey. Cook for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in the sliced chicken and smoked paprika. Cook for another 5 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
5. Remove from heat and mix in the black beans, seasoning with salt and pepper.
6. Spoon the mixture into the tortillas, sprinkle with cheese, and bake for 20 minutes, or until the tortillas turn golden and crisp.
7. Serve with avocado, coriander, jalapeños, and lime wedges.