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- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded - 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce - 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained - 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen) - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese - 1 medium onion, diced - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon cumin - 1 teaspoon chili powder - 6 corn tortillas, cut into quarters - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh cilantro, for garnish In this recipe, you will see lots of colors and flavors. The cooked chicken is the star, but it plays well with the enchilada sauce. The black beans add protein and a nice texture. The corn brings a touch of sweetness. You can use fresh corn, or canned, or frozen. Each choice works well. The spices like cumin and chili powder give warmth. Diced onion adds a crisp bite. Don't forget the tortillas; they are the glue that holds this dish together. I love cutting them into quarters for easy layering. The shredded cheddar cheese is the final touch. It melts beautifully, creating a gooey top. And for a fresh kick, we add cilantro at the end. This dish is not just tasty; it looks great too. For the full recipe, check out the details above. Feel free to mix and match these ingredients based on what you have. Cooking should be fun and flexible! - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). - Gather your ingredients and tools. You will need a large bowl and a 9x13 inch baking dish. - Start by layering half of the quartered corn tortillas in the dish. - In a large bowl, mix the cooked chicken, enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, diced onion, garlic powder, cumin, and chili powder. Add salt and pepper. - Spread half of this chicken mixture on top of the tortillas. - Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken. - Now, repeat the layers with the rest of the tortillas, chicken mixture, and top it with the last cup of cheese. - Cover the baking dish with foil. Bake it in the oven for 25 minutes. - After 25 minutes, remove the foil. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. - Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Don't forget to garnish with fresh cilantro! You can find the Full Recipe for more details. To achieve the best cheese texture, I recommend using fresh shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that can affect melt quality. For a creamy and stretchy cheese layer, combine cheddar with a bit of Monterey Jack. Cutting tortillas can be tricky. To make it easy, stack a few tortillas and use a sharp knife. You can also use kitchen scissors for quick cuts. This saves time and gives you even pieces. If you don't have cooked chicken, rotisserie chicken works great. You can also use shredded turkey or even canned chicken in a pinch. For a vegetarian option, try adding sautéed mushrooms or zucchini. You can swap black beans for pinto beans or kidney beans. Different cheeses like pepper jack can add spice. Feel free to mix and match based on what you have at home. This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad. A side of rice or avocado slices also complements the dish. For garnishes, fresh cilantro adds color and flavor. You can also top it with sour cream or sliced jalapeños for a kick. For the full recipe, check out the Easy Chicken Enchilada Casserole. Enjoy the cooking experience! {{image_2}} You can change the protein in this dish. Ground beef or turkey works well. Just cook it first before adding it to the mix. If you prefer a meatless option, use beans or lentils. These ingredients give you a hearty meal without the meat. To spice things up, add jalapeños for heat. You can slice them and mix them in. If you want a unique flavor, try different spices. Smoked paprika or oregano can add depth. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite taste. If you need a gluten-free dish, look for gluten-free tortillas. Many brands offer great options that hold up well. Check the label to ensure they are safe for your diet. This way, everyone can enjoy the casserole without worry. For the full recipe, click here: [Full Recipe]. To refrigerate your leftovers, let the casserole cool down first. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also transfer it to an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. When you want to reheat it, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in the oven for about 20-25 minutes. You can also reheat it in the microwave for about 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating. If you want to freeze the casserole, follow these steps. First, let it cool completely. Then, cut it into portions. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. This helps prevent freezer burn. The casserole will last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. In the fridge, your Easy Chicken Enchilada Casserole will last about 3-4 days. In the freezer, it can last for 2-3 months. Always check for signs of spoilage. Look for changes in color, texture, or smell. If it seems off, it's best to throw it away. Enjoy safe and tasty meals! For the full recipe, visit the recipe section. Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance. To do this, follow these steps: - Make the chicken mixture as directed. - Layer it in the baking dish. - Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. - Store it in the fridge overnight. When you are ready to bake, just remove the wrap and bake as usual. This makes it easy for busy nights. There are many tasty sides to serve with enchilada casserole. Here are my top suggestions: - Mexican rice: This adds a nice texture. - Refried beans: They make a great pairing. - Guacamole: Fresh and creamy, it balances the dish. - Corn salad: A light and fresh option. These sides will enhance your meal. Absolutely! You can make this casserole as spicy or mild as you like. Here are some ideas: - For a mild version, use less chili powder and omit any hot peppers. - For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or more chili powder. You can even use spicy enchilada sauce for extra heat. Adjust to your taste! Feel free to check out the Full Recipe for more details on this delicious dish. In this blog post, we covered how to make an easy chicken enchilada casserole. You learned about the main and extra ingredients, like chicken, cheese, and spices. I walked you through each step from preparation to baking. I also shared tips, variations, and storage info. You can make this dish your own with different proteins or flavors. Enjoy making this meal; it's sure to please anyone you serve! Remember, cooking is fun and a great way to share time with loved ones.

Easy Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Delicious and easy to make, this Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole is the perfect weeknight dinner! With layers of tender shredded chicken, black beans, and gooey cheddar cheese, this recipe brings comfort food to a whole new level. Ready in just 50 minutes, it's a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Click through to explore the full recipe and bring this flavorful dish to your table tonight!

Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce

1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained

1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 medium onion, diced

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon cumin

1 teaspoon chili powder

6 corn tortillas, cut into quarters

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, diced onion, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

      In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the quartered corn tortillas on the bottom.

        Spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas, then sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

          Repeat the layering process with the remaining tortillas, chicken mixture, and top with the final cup of cheddar cheese.

            Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.

              Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

                Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

                  Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 50 min | Servings: 6-8