Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Hi there, food lover! 👋

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm casserole bubbling straight out of the oven, filling your kitchen with rich, savory aromas. Today, we’re diving into a beloved classic that’s both hearty and deeply satisfying: Chicken Enchilada Casserole. This dish carries with it the warmth of Mexican home cooking, layered with love, spice, and tradition.

Enchiladas have long been a family favorite, often made to bring everyone together around the table. But making rolled enchiladas can sometimes feel like a bit of a task—so this casserole version keeps all the bold, authentic flavors while cutting back on the work. Imagine tender shredded chicken, tangy enchilada sauce, melty cheese, and layers of tortillas, all baked together to perfection. 🌮🧀✨

This casserole is ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where comfort food is the star. It’s a recipe that embraces simplicity without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish is sure to win hearts and fill bellies with joy. Ready to bring the fiesta to your table? Let’s get started! 🎉

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Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
• 2 cups enchilada sauce (red or green, homemade or store-bought)
• 12 corn tortillas, cut in halves or quarters
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Sour cream or avocado slices (for serving, optional)

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Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Prepare the chicken filling 🐓
   • In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant (about 3–4 minutes).
   • Stir in cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add shredded chicken, black beans, and corn. Mix well to coat with the spices.
2. Layer the casserole 🍲
   • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a light layer of oil or nonstick spray.
   • Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the dish.
   • Place a layer of tortilla pieces over the sauce.
   • Add half of the chicken mixture, a drizzle of enchilada sauce, and a generous sprinkle of both cheeses.
   • Repeat the layers: tortillas, chicken mixture, sauce, cheese.
   • Top with a final layer of tortillas, sauce, and the remaining cheese.
3. Bake to perfection 🔥
   • Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
   • Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden edges.
4. Serve and enjoy 🎉
   • Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing—it will hold together better.
   • Garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or avocado slices.
   • Serve warm and watch it disappear fast!

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Nutritional Information:

⏰ Prep Time: 20 minutes | 🔥 Baking Time: 30 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: 50 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: ~420 | 🍽️ Servings: 6–8

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Hashtags:

#ChickenEnchiladaCasserole #MexicanComfortFood #EasyCasseroleRecipe #FamilyDinner #CheesyGoodness #HomemadeMexican

Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩🍳🍽️