If you’re on the hunt for a healthy yet delicious dinner option that the whole family will adore, you’ve landed in the right place. This Skinny Chicken Tortilla Casserole is not just a dish, it’s a crowd-pleaser packed with flavor and nutrition. With lean protein, vibrant veggies, and a cheesy topping, this casserole is sure to become a weekly staple in your home. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
What Sets This Recipe Apart
What makes this Skinny Chicken Tortilla Casserole unique is its wholesome ingredient list, which keeps the calorie count low while maximizing flavor. By swapping out heavy creams and sour creams for fat-free Greek yogurt and skim milk, we maintain creaminess without the guilt. The use of corn tortillas instead of traditional flour tortillas adds a delightful texture and keeps the dish gluten-free. It’s a casserole that is not only satisfying but also light on the waistline!
Ingredient Rundown
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this fabulous casserole:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (fat-free) – This will give our casserole a creamy base without the extra calories.
- 1/2 cup skim milk – Adds moisture and helps to create a delicious sauce.
- 1 cup salsa (sugar-free) – A burst of flavor with minimal sugar.
- 3 cups chicken (cooked, shredded) – About 1 pound of chicken breasts will do the trick. Lean protein is key!
- 1 cup corn kernels (frozen) – Adds sweetness and texture.
- 1 medium red bell pepper (diced) – For color and crunch.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (reduced-fat, shredded) – Keeps it cheesy while being mindful of fat content.
- 12 corn tortillas (6 inch) – The foundation of our casserole, creating layers of flavor.
Tools of the Trade
You don’t need any fancy gadgets to make this casserole. Here’s what you should have on hand:
- 9×13 inch baking dish – Perfect for layering and baking your casserole.
- Mixing bowls – For combining your ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Accuracy is key in cooking!
- Wooden spoon or spatula – For mixing and spreading.
Skinny Chicken Tortilla Casserole in Steps
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole will cook evenly and come out perfectly bubbly.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
If you haven’t already cooked your chicken, you can boil, bake, or grill it until fully cooked. Once it’s cool, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Mix the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, skim milk, and salsa. Stir until smooth and well-blended.
Step 4: Add the Ingredients
To the yogurt mixture, add the shredded chicken, frozen corn, and diced red bell pepper. Mix until everything is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Layer the Casserole
In your greased baking dish, start by laying down 4 corn tortillas. Spread half of the chicken mixture over them, then sprinkle with a third of the shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat this layer with another 4 tortillas, the remaining chicken mixture, and another third of the cheese.
Step 6: Top It Off
Finish with the last 4 corn tortillas on top. Spread any remaining yogurt mixture over the tortillas and sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese on top.
Step 7: Bake
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it warm, and watch as your family digs in with delight!
Holiday & Seasonal Touches
This Skinny Chicken Tortilla Casserole is versatile enough to enjoy year-round. Here are some ideas to give it a seasonal twist:
- Spring: Add some diced zucchini or spinach for a fresh touch.
- Summer: Toss in some diced tomatoes or black beans for added color and flavor.
- Fall: Incorporate roasted butternut squash for a sweet, autumnal flavor.
- Winter: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.
Steer Clear of These
When making your Skinny Chicken Tortilla Casserole, be mindful of the following:
- Avoid using regular sour cream or heavy creams, as they can significantly increase the calorie count.
- Skip the full-fat cheese if you’re looking to keep it light; opt for reduced-fat varieties instead.
- Be cautious with store-bought salsas that contain added sugars or preservatives—opt for fresh or sugar-free brands.
Best Ways to Store
To keep your casserole fresh for later, consider these storage tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
- Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for convenience.
Common Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds flavor. Just make sure to shred it and remove any skin before mixing it into the casserole.
Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This Skinny Chicken Tortilla Casserole is perfect for meal prep. You can make it in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer for quick and easy meals throughout the week.
Can I substitute the corn tortillas?
If you’re not a fan of corn tortillas, you can substitute them with whole wheat tortillas or even zucchini slices for a low-carb version.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For those who love a little heat, try adding diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture or using a spicier salsa. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top for an extra kick!
If you enjoy one-pan meals, you might love these recipes too:
That’s a Wrap
This Skinny Chicken Tortilla Casserole is a delightful way to enjoy a hearty meal without compromising on health. It’s filled with wholesome ingredients, packed with protein, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and feel good about what you’re eating!
Skinny Chicken Tortilla Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: If you haven’t already cooked your chicken, boil, bake, or grill it until fully cooked. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, skim milk, and salsa. Stir until smooth and well-blended.
- Step 4: To the yogurt mixture, add the shredded chicken, frozen corn, and diced red bell pepper. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Step 5: In your greased baking dish, lay down 4 corn tortillas. Spread half of the chicken mixture over them, then sprinkle with a third of the cheddar cheese. Repeat with another 4 tortillas, the remaining chicken mixture, and another third of the cheese.
- Step 6: Finish with the last 4 corn tortillas on top. Spread any remaining yogurt mixture over the tortillas and sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese on top.
- Step 7: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Step 8: Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, bake at 350°F until warmed through or microwave individual portions.
