Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Chicken Enchilada Casserole is a quick and comforting dish that combines the bold flavors of traditional enchiladas in an easy-to-assemble, layered casserole. Loaded with shredded chicken, cheese, and enchilada sauce, this one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or make-ahead dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• All the flavor of enchiladas without the hassle of rolling tortillas.
• Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients or spice level.
• Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.
• Made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.
• A cheesy, saucy, and hearty dinner that everyone will love!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
• Corn or flour tortillas (cut into quarters)
• Red enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Shredded Mexican blend cheese (or cheddar/jack)
• Black beans (rinsed and drained)
• Corn (frozen or canned)
• Diced green chilies (optional, for extra flavor)
• Optional toppings: sour cream, avocado, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Layer the Ingredients:
   • Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
   • Add a layer of tortilla pieces, overlapping slightly to cover the bottom.
   • Sprinkle a layer of shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and diced green chilies (if using).
   • Drizzle enchilada sauce over the layers and sprinkle with cheese.
3. Repeat Layers:
   Repeat the layers—tortillas, chicken, beans, corn, sauce, and cheese—until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
4. Bake:
   Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Top with your favorite garnishes like sour cream, avocado, cilantro, or diced tomatoes.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Use a spicy enchilada sauce or add jalapeños between the layers.
• Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for sautéed vegetables or cooked sweet potatoes.
• Creamy Enchiladas: Mix a cup of sour cream or cream cheese into the enchilada sauce for a creamier texture.
• Green Enchiladas: Use green enchilada sauce instead of red for a tangy twist.
• Protein Boost: Add cooked chorizo, ground beef, or shrimp alongside the chicken.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the unbaked casserole tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver for this recipe.

2. What’s the best type of tortillas to use?

Corn tortillas are traditional for enchiladas, but flour tortillas work if you prefer a softer texture.

3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate it (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

4. How do I prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy?

Lightly toast the tortillas before layering, or use slightly stale tortillas.

5. Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Try adding bell peppers, zucchini, or sautéed onions to the layers.

6. How do I make it less spicy?

Use mild enchilada sauce and omit green chilies or jalapeños.

7. Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, drained canned chicken can be used as a quick substitute.

8. What cheese works best?

A Mexican blend, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or queso fresco are all great options.

9. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free corn tortillas and ensure your enchilada sauce is gluten-free.

10. What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve with Spanish rice, a green salad, or chips and guacamole for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Chicken Enchilada Casserole is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or satisfying a weeknight craving for Mexican-inspired comfort food. With its cheesy layers and bold flavors, it’s a guaranteed hit that you can customize to suit your taste. Serve it with your favorite toppings and enjoy this hearty, delicious meal!

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