Description
Hearty chicken enchilada casserole delivers comfort and flavor from Mexico’s rich culinary traditions. Layers of tortillas, tender chicken, and melted cheese create a satisfying meal that will delight diners seeking authentic southwestern cuisine.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
Tortillas and Beans:
- 12 small corn tortillas, cut into quarters
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
Sauces and Cheese:
- 1 can (10 ounces) red enchilada sauce
- 1 can (10 ounces) green enchilada sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Optional Toppings:
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 350F (175C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Create the first foundation layer by evenly placing corn tortillas across the bottom of the dish.
- Distribute an even layer of shredded chicken over the tortillas.
- Drizzle half of the enchilada sauce across the chicken layer, ensuring complete coverage.
- Scatter black beans and diced onions uniformly over the sauced chicken.
- Generously sprinkle a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the bean and onion layer.
- Repeat the layering process with remaining corn tortillas, creating a second complete layer.
- Top the second layer with remaining shredded chicken, ensuring consistent distribution.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the chicken, covering all areas.
- Finish with a final generous coating of cheese blend, covering the entire surface.
- Transfer the casserole to the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until cheese melts and edges become golden and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and sliced black olives for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Customize tortillas by using whole wheat or gluten-free options for dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy this hearty meal.
- Create a lighter version by using reduced-fat cheese and adding extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for increased nutrition.
- Prepare chicken ahead of time by slow-cooking or using rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor to the casserole.
- Enhance the dish’s versatility by swapping chicken with black beans or shredded beef for different protein alternatives that suit various preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 33 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg