Introduction
If you’re looking for a flavorful and satisfying dish, this ground chicken lasagna is a perfect choice. Combining the textures of tortillas with the zesty flavors of taco seasoning and fresh vegetables, this recipe creates a delightful meal that is sure to impress family and friends. It’s an easy yet delicious way to bring a taste of Mexico to your dinner table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1 green bell pepper, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup frozen corn
– 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 cup salsa
– 6 large flour tortillas
– 1 can (16 ounces) refried beans
– 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
35 minutes
Total Time
50 minutes
Yield
Serves 6
This ground chicken lasagna is easy to make and packed with flavor, making it a great choice for any weeknight dinner or casual gathering. Enjoy the layers of ingredients that bring together a wonderful combination of tastes and textures!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Step 2: Cook Chicken and Peppers
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add ground chicken and diced bell peppers; cook until the meat is browned and peppers are tender, about 7 minutes.
Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients
Stir in frozen corn, black beans, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and salsa. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Prepare Baking Dish
Spread a thin layer of the meat mixture in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 5: Layer Tortillas
Place two flour tortillas over the meat mixture, overlapping as needed.
Step 6: Spread Refried Beans
Spread half of the refried beans over the tortillas.
Step 7: Add Layers
Add a layer of the meat mixture over the beans, followed by a layer of shredded cheese.
Step 8: Repeat Layers
Repeat the layers: tortillas, refried beans, meat mixture, and cheese.
Step 9: Final Layering
Top with the remaining two tortillas, the last portion of the meat mixture, and finish with a generous layer of shredded cheese.
Step 10: Cover and Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
Step 11: Uncover and Bake Again
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 12: Rest and Serve
Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen before baking. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then follow the baking instructions.
Customization
Feel free to customize by adding other vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms, or by using different types of cheese.
Cook techniques
Cooking Ground Chicken
To cook ground chicken, use medium heat in a skillet. Add olive oil to the pan and let it heat before adding the chicken. Break the meat apart with a spatula, cooking until browned and fully cooked, which takes about 7 minutes.
Sautéing Vegetables
Sautéing involves cooking vegetables quickly over medium heat with a small amount of oil. In this recipe, dice green and red bell peppers and cook them alongside the ground chicken until tender, enhancing their flavor.
Blending Flavors
Combining ingredients like corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes allows the flavors to meld together. After adding these ingredients to the skillet, cook for 5 minutes to create a cohesive mixture full of flavor.
Layering for Baking
When assembling the dish, create layers starting with a thin meat mixture, followed by tortillas, refried beans, and shredded cheese. This layering method ensures even distribution of flavors and textures throughout the dish.
Covering for Baking
Covering the dish with aluminum foil while baking helps to trap steam, which keeps the dish moist. Remove the foil towards the end of cooking to allow the cheese to brown and become bubbly.
Resting Time
Letting the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes after baking is crucial. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.
FAQ
Can I use different types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground chicken with other ground meats such as turkey, beef, or pork based on your preference.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this recipe vegetarian, omit the ground chicken and replace it with additional beans or grilled vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms.
Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the layers ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Can I freeze leftover lasagna?
Yes, leftover lasagna can be frozen. Ensure it’s cooled completely before wrapping tightly and placing it in the freezer for future meals.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a fresh salad, guacamole, or sour cream on the side for added flavor and texture.
Conclusion
This delightful ground chicken and vegetable lasagna offers a hearty and flavorful twist on traditional recipes. With layers of savory meat, vibrant bell peppers, and a melty cheese topping, it promises to be a crowd-pleaser at any table. The combination of spices and textures creates an inviting dish that can be easily adapted to suit various tastes. Enjoy this dish as a satisfying meal on its own, or pair it with a side salad for a complete dining experience.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetarian Version
Replace ground chicken with sautéed mushrooms and zucchini for a delicious vegetarian lasagna. Use extra layers of vegetables for added texture.
Spicy Kick
Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for those who enjoy a little heat in their meal.
Southwestern Quinoa Bake
Substitute quinoa for the ground chicken, combining it with the same vegetables and spices for a nutritious, protein-packed alternative.
Extra Cheese Delight
Mix different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or queso fresco, to layer in between for an extravagant cheesy flavor.
Taco Bake
Use corn tortillas instead of flour for a more authentic taco flavor. Layer with all the same fillings for a fun twist on taco night.
Skillet Version
Make a quick skillet version by layering the ingredients without baking, cooking everything in one pan for a quicker and easier meal.
Bean and Cheese Tacos
Use the meat mixture to fill hard taco shells along with refried beans and top with cheese and fresh salsa for a classic taco night.
Stuffed Peppers
Use the meat mixture to stuff halved bell peppers, top with cheese, and bake until the peppers are tender for a colorful and healthy dish.
Soup Variation
Transform the mixture into a hearty soup by adding chicken broth and extra vegetables, simmering until everything is tender for a cozy dish.
