Big Batch Taco Chicken Bake with Cheesy Chicken Taco Rice Layers

Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready to feed a crowd with something warm, hearty, and deeply comforting straight from the oven?

When it comes to family-style cooking, nothing beats a big baking dish bubbling with layers of flavor, cheese, and familiar spices. This Big Batch Taco Chicken Bake with Cheesy Chicken Taco Rice Layers is inspired by traditional home casseroles—the kind made to serve many, reheat beautifully, and bring everyone back to the table for seconds. It’s bold, satisfying, and built on pantry-friendly ingredients that come together into something truly special.

This dish celebrates the comforting marriage of seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, and melted cheese, all wrapped in warm taco-inspired flavors. Think of it as a cross between a classic casserole and a taco night favorite—only easier, heartier, and perfect for make-ahead meals. Each layer plays a role: the rice absorbs the spices, the chicken adds protein and richness, and the cheese binds everything together into a golden, bubbling bake.

What makes this recipe especially beloved is its generosity. It’s meant for big families, potlucks, meal prep Sundays, or those weeks when you want one dish to carry you through several meals. The flavors are familiar and friendly, with just enough spice to keep things interesting 🌶️. Served with a simple salad, tortillas, or even on its own, this bake feels like home-cooked comfort at its best.

Take your time layering, enjoy the aroma as it bakes, and know that you’re creating a dish rooted in the tradition of feeding people well—with warmth, care, and plenty of cheese. 💛

Ingredients 🥣

For the Cheesy Taco Rice Layer

• 3 cups uncooked long-grain rice
• 6 cups chicken broth or water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican-blend cheese

For the Taco Chicken Layer

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Bake Assembly

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 2 cups salsa (mild or medium)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella or Mexican-blend cheese
• Fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish

Step-by-Step Directions 👩‍🍳

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large deep baking dish or roasting pan and set aside.
2. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat, add rice, and toast lightly for 1–2 minutes.
3. Stir in chicken broth, taco seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
4. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and stir in shredded cheese while still warm. Set aside.
5. While the rice cooks, season the chicken with taco seasoning, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
6. Heat olive oil in a large skillet and cook chicken over medium heat until fully cooked and lightly browned. Remove from heat and dice or shred the chicken.
7. To assemble, spread half of the cheesy taco rice evenly in the prepared baking dish.
8. Layer half of the chicken over the rice, followed by black beans, corn, and a light drizzle of salsa.
9. Sprinkle a generous layer of cheese over the top.
10. Repeat the layers with remaining rice, chicken, beans, corn, salsa, and cheese.
11. Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
12. Let the bake rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions if desired.

Nutritional Information 📊

This big batch bake is rich, filling, and designed to satisfy. With protein from chicken, energy from rice, and comforting fats from cheese, it’s a complete meal in one dish. Nutritional values will vary depending on ingredients used.

⏰ Prep Time: 25 minutes
🔥 Baking Time: 40 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

⚡ Calories per serving: ~480
🍽️ Servings: 8–10 generous portions

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Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩‍🍳🍽️