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Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Chicken Enchilada Casserole

The ultimate comfort food, Chicken Enchilada Casserole features layers of tender chicken, zesty enchilada sauce, and melted cheese. It's an easy weeknight dinner that the whole family will love. Make it tonight for a satisfying meal!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 can black beans 15 ounces, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups red enchilada sauce divided
  • 12 small corn tortillas cut into quarters
  • 3 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend

Equipment

  • Blender
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Oven
  • Cutting Board
  • Skillet
  • Baking Sheet

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until they are softened, about 3 to 5 minutes.
  3. Add the cooked, shredded chicken, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet, stirring to combine.
  4. Stir in the drained and rinsed black beans and 1 cup of enchilada sauce, then remove from heat.
  5. Spread a thin layer of the remaining enchilada sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  6. Layer ⅓ of the tortilla pieces over the sauce, followed by ⅓ of the chicken and bean mixture, and ⅓ of the cheese. Repeat these layers two more times, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
  7. Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
  8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.
  • Tip 2: You can freeze the casserole before baking for up to three months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.
  • Tip 3: Serve with a side of fresh guacamole and tortilla chips for a complete meal.
  • Tip 4: Top with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for added flavor.
  • Tip 5: This recipe serves six but can easily be halved or doubled for larger gatherings.