Delicious Chicken Enchilada Casserole

 

Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well for convenience)
• 1 can (19 ounces) enchilada sauce (red or green, based on preference)
• 12 corn tortillas, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chiles
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
• 3 cups shredded cheese (Mexican blend or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving (optional):

• Sour cream
• Chopped fresh cilantro
• Diced avocado
• Sliced jalapeños
• Lime wedges

How To Make Delicious Chicken Enchilada Casserole

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little bit of oil.
2. Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken with half of the enchilada sauce, diced green chiles, cumin, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
3. Layer the Casserole:
   • First Layer: Spread a small amount of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange a layer of cut tortillas over the sauce, covering the bottom of the dish.
   • Second Layer: Spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas. Top with half of the black beans, corn, and diced onion. Sprinkle a third of the cheese over the top.
   • Third Layer: Add another layer of cut tortillas, followed by the remaining chicken mixture, black beans, corn, and onion. Sprinkle another third of the cheese over the top.
   • Fourth Layer: Finish with a final layer of cut tortillas. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top, ensuring all the tortillas are covered. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the sauce.
4. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
5. Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set, making it easier to cut and serve.
6. Garnish and Enjoy: Serve with optional garnishes like sour cream, chopped fresh cilantro, diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, and lime wedges on the side.