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Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that brings the flavors of traditional enchiladas into a simple, crowd-pleasing casserole. It features layers of tender chicken, flavorful enchilada sauce, and plenty of melted cheese, all baked to perfection. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole is easy to prepare and always a hit with family and friends.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great for several reasons. First, it is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings. Second, it is packed with flavor, satisfying appetites with its cheesy goodness and zesty sauce. Additionally, you can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or beans, making it versatile for everyone’s tastes. Lastly, it can be made ahead of time, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Ingredients

2 cups cooked shredded chicken
8–10 flour or corn tortillas
1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
1 cup black beans (optional)
1/2 cup chopped onion (optional)
1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (optional)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, black beans, onion, bell pepper, cumin, salt, and pepper.
In a greased baking dish, layer some tortillas on the bottom, then add a layer of the chicken mixture, and sprinkle with cheese.
Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Serve your Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole hot from the oven. You can top it with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or some tortilla chips for crunch.

How to Store Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions if preferred.

Tips to Make Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful option.
Feel free to add more spices like chili powder or garlic powder for an extra kick.
Experiment with different types of cheese to find your perfect combination.

Variation

You can customize this casserole by adding more vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or corn. You can also substitute ground meat like beef or turkey for the chicken if desired.

FAQs

1. Can I make Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole beforehand. Just assemble it, cover it well, and store it in the fridge. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I freeze Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly before freezing. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

3. What if I don’t have enchilada sauce?
You can use taco sauce or make your own by mixing tomato sauce with spices like chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder for a similar effect.