Chicken Tortilla Dump Dinner

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Delicious chicken tortilla dump dinner served in a bowl
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Chicken Tortilla Dump Dinner: A Cozy Culinary Delight

As the leaves begin to fall and the evenings turn crisp, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a homemade meal wafting through your kitchen. Enter the Chicken Tortilla Dump Dinner, a vibrant and satisfying dish that transforms mealtime into a cozy gathering. This recipe is not only a breeze to whip up but also celebrates the delicious harmony of flavors—savory, tangy, and topped with gooey melted cheese. Imagine tucking into a warm, hearty casserole that hugs your taste buds like an old friend, complete with crunchy tortilla chips and a medley of wholesome ingredients.

This recipe is ideal for those bustling weekday nights when you crave something comforting yet quick. Whether you’re feeding a family of hungry teens, hosting a casual dinner party, or simply wanting to treat yourself to a delightful dish, the Chicken Tortilla Dump Dinner fits the occasion perfectly. It’s a simple, one-bowl wonder that delivers big on flavor with minimal fuss, allowing you to indulge without the stress.

Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Servings: 6–8 people
  • Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 23g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sugar: 3g

Note: Nutrition information is based on verified data from the USDA FoodData Central and may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.

Why Make This Recipe

The Chicken Tortilla Dump Dinner is a celebration of texture and taste. The combination of crispy tortilla chips, tender shredded chicken, and zesty salsa creates a dish that’s not only satisfying to eat but also a pleasure to prepare. It’s perfect for busy families looking for a quick meal without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. The layers of flavors meld beautifully in the oven, creating an aromatic escape that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening.

How to Make Chicken Tortilla Dump Dinner

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 cup tortilla chips, crushed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, cumin, chili powder, and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Layer the Dish: In a greased baking dish, layer half of the crushed tortilla chips on the bottom.
  4. Add the Chicken Mixture: Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the first layer of chips.
  5. Top with Remaining Chips: Sprinkle the remaining crushed tortilla chips on top.
  6. Add Cheese: Generously sprinkle shredded cheese over the top layer of chips.
  7. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Garnish and Serve: If desired, garnish with fresh cilantro before serving hot.

Tip: Avoid overmixing the chicken mixture, as it can cause the beans to break down and alter the texture of the dish.

How to Serve

This delicious Chicken Tortilla Dump Dinner can stand on its own or be accompanied by a zesty green salad, dollops of guacamole, or a side of sour cream for extra flavor. For a fun twist, consider serving with a refreshing mango salsa or tangy jalapeño slaw on the side.

How to Store

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven until warmed through. If you want to save it for a later date, freeze the dish for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.

Expert Tips

For the best results, choose high-quality cheese for a creamy melt. If you’re looking for a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or diced green chilies to the chicken mixture. You can also use rotisserie chicken for a time-saver that adds extra flavor.

Delicious Variations

  • Vegan Version: Substitute shredded chicken with cooked quinoa or jackfruit for a plant-based alternative. Use vegan cheese for the topping.
  • Gluten-Free Alternative: Opt for gluten-free tortilla chips and ensure that the salsa and beans used are labeled gluten-free.
  • Southwest Twist: Add diced bell peppers or avocado salsa for a fresh, colorful twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use frozen chicken? Absolutely! Just ensure it’s fully thawed before shredding for best results.
  2. Will the chips get soggy? The top layer of chips will remain crispy while the bottom layer will soak up flavor—just be sure to serve immediately after baking.
  3. How can I make this dish spicier? Add more chili powder or diced jalapeños into the chicken mixture for an added kick.
  4. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead, keep it covered in the fridge, and then bake when you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

The Chicken Tortilla Dump Dinner is a heartwarming dish that brings comfort to any table. Its rich flavors, satisfying textures, and ease of preparation make it ideal for busy lives and family gatherings alike. So why not give it a try? Gather your loved ones, share some stories, and enjoy every cheesy, crispy bite. Don’t forget to share your variations or feedback—we can’t wait to hear how you make this dish your own!

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Chicken Tortilla Dump Dinner

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Description

A hearty and comforting casserole featuring shredded chicken, tortilla chips, and gooey melted cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 cup tortilla chips, crushed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, cumin, chili powder, and season with salt and pepper.
  3. In a greased baking dish, layer half of the crushed tortilla chips on the bottom.
  4. Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the first layer of chips.
  5. Sprinkle the remaining crushed tortilla chips on top.
  6. Generously sprinkle shredded cheese over the top layer of chips.
  7. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. If desired, garnish with fresh cilantro before serving hot.

Notes

For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or diced green chilies to the chicken mixture. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 23g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

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