Introduction:
Are you looking for a simple yet flavorful dish to satisfy your cravings? Look no further than this mouthwatering Chicken Enchilada Casserole recipe. Packed with tender shredded chicken, zesty enchilada sauce, and gooey cheese, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Follow along as we guide you through the steps to create this delectable dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 can (10 ounces) red enchilada sauce
- 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 corn tortillas, cut into quarters
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Sliced avocado, for serving (optional)
- Sour cream, for serving (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Prepare Chicken Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, red enchilada sauce, diced green chilies, diced onion, diced bell pepper, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
- Layer Tortillas: Arrange half of the corn tortilla quarters evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Add Chicken Mixture: Spoon half of the chicken mixture over the layer of tortillas, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle half of the shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses over the chicken mixture.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers with the remaining tortilla quarters, chicken mixture, and shredded cheeses.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Uncover and Bake: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the casserole with chopped fresh cilantro and serve with sliced avocado and sour cream, if desired.
Additional Information:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories per Serving: 340 kcal
Can I Add More Ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize this Chicken Enchilada Casserole to suit your taste preferences. You can add additional ingredients such as black beans, corn kernels, or diced tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you prefer a spicier casserole, you can increase the amount of diced green chilies or add some chopped jalapeños to the chicken mixture. You can also top the casserole with sliced jalapeños before baking for an extra kick of heat.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare this Chicken Enchilada Casserole ahead of time. Simply assemble the casserole as instructed, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to bake, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. You may need to increase the baking time slightly to ensure that the casserole is heated through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions until heated through, or place the entire casserole back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed to your liking.
Is This Dish Freezer-Friendly?
Yes, this Chicken Enchilada Casserole is freezer-friendly. Once baked, allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator and then bake it in a preheated oven until heated through.
Conclusion:
With its bold flavors and easy preparation, this Chicken Enchilada Casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this crowd-pleasing dish is always a hit. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of Tex-Mex goodness!
