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Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Chicken enchilada casserole with layered tortillas, seasoned chicken mixture, and enchilada sauce baked until bubbling and golden at the edges. Easy assembly creates distinct layers and a melted cheese top in one tray.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
resting 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cup shredded cooked chicken
  • 2 cup enchilada sauce
  • 8 small corn tortillas
  • 2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup Mexican crema or sour cream
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels
  • 0.25 Salt and pepper to taste
  • 0.25 cilantro for garnish

Equipment

  • 1 sheet pan
  • 1 9x13 baking dish

Method
 

Assemble the first layer
  1. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 baking dish.
  2. Layer 4 tortillas, slightly overlapping, over the sauce.
  3. In a bowl, combine shredded cooked chicken, Mexican crema or sour cream, diced onion, minced garlic, black beans, and corn kernels; season with salt and pepper.
  4. Spread half the chicken mixture over the tortillas and sprinkle with 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
Build the remaining layers
  1. Add 4 more tortillas over the chicken and cheese layer.
  2. Spread the remaining chicken mixture and then add another layer of tortillas.
  3. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake and finish
  1. Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes, until bubbly and the edges are golden.
  2. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to set.
  3. Garnish with cilantro and serve.

Notes

For cleaner slices, let the casserole rest the full 5 minutes before cutting. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven or microwave until hot. Freezing is yes—freeze portions up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. For a lighter option, use reduced-fat cheddar and light crema/sour cream if desired.