The Cheesiest Chicken Enchilada Casserole
All the Bold Flavors of Enchiladas in an Easy, Crowd-Pleasing Casserole
Inspired by traditional Mexican enchiladas, this Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole layers tender chicken, rich sauce, and melted cheese for a comforting, easy-to-make dish perfect for any occasion.
DifficultyEasy Servings6 Prep time15 minutes Cook time30 minutes Total time45 minutes Prepare the Filling: Assemble the Casserole: Bake the Casserole: Serve: Substitutions: Pro Tips: FAQs: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? What’s the best way to store leftovers? Storage & Reheating Instructions:Cheesy Chicken & Black Bean Enchilada Casserole – Easy, Baked Mexican Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Chicken & Filling:
For the Casserole:
Instructions:
Equipment
Recipe Notes and Variations:
Nutrition
Calories 390 Carbohydrates 38g Cholesterol 50mg Fat 18g Fiber 7g Protein 28g Saturated Fat 9g Sodium 800mg Sugar 4g Trans Fat 0g Unsaturated Fat 7g
History, Evolution, and Inspiration
Enchiladas, a beloved dish in Mexican cuisine, have been a staple for centuries, originating from the ancient Aztecs who would dip corn tortillas into chili sauces. Over time, this dish evolved, with modern versions featuring rich, cheesy sauces and various fillings. The cheesy chicken enchilada casserole takes the traditional enchilada to new heights by combining the delicious elements of enchiladas with the comforting, easy-to-make nature of a casserole.
The Art of Cooking Parts of the Recipe
The key to making a perfect black bean enchilada casserole lies in the layers. The tortilla strips soak up the flavorful enchilada sauce, creating the perfect texture that melds with the cheesy, savory filling. The chicken and black beans are seasoned with cumin, chili powder, and paprika, adding depth and warmth to every bite.
Interesting Things About the Recipe
This dish is more than just a casserole; it’s a quick enchilada dinner that’s easy to customize. You can add extra veggies or spice it up with jalapeños or green chilies. The best part? It’s all baked in one pan, making it a hassle-free, flavorful meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Overview of the Parts of the Recipe
- Tortillas: The base of the casserole, soft and flavorful when baked in sauce.
- Chicken and Black Beans: The hearty filling, spiced just right with cumin and chili powder.
- Cheese: A melty, gooey layer that binds the casserole together in deliciousness.
- Enchilada Sauce: The rich, savory sauce that gives the casserole its signature flavor.
What Occasions It’s Good For
- Family Casserole Recipe: Perfect for feeding the whole family with minimal effort.
- Easy Mexican Bake: A great choice for a quick enchilada dinner when you want something hearty and comforting.
- Baked Enchiladas: A fun twist on the traditional rolled enchiladas, this casserole gives you all the flavor with less effort.
Why It’s the Perfect Recipe
This cheesy enchilada recipe is the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and texture. The combination of chicken, black beans, and cheese makes for a satisfying meal that can be prepared quickly and baked in one dish. It’s also easily customizable for various tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a family dinner, this recipe is sure to please.