Introduction
Indulge in the comforting flavors of homemade Mexican-inspired casserole, featuring layers of corn tortillas, seasoned chicken, hearty pinto beans, and melty Colby Jack cheese, all smothered in zesty red enchilada sauce. This dish is easy to prepare and perfect for family meals or gatherings, bringing a burst of flavor and satisfaction in every bite.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Corn tortillas
– 2 cups cooked chicken, cut into strips or bite-sized pieces
– 1 can pinto beans (or 2 cups homemade)
– 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
– 1 cup red enchilada sauce
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the cooked chicken with chili powder, ground cumin, and garlic powder. Toss gently to coat evenly.
3. Lightly grease a baking dish.
4. Place a layer of corn tortillas at the bottom of the dish.
5. Add a layer of the seasoned chicken over the tortillas.
6. Sprinkle a portion of shredded Colby Jack cheese over the chicken.
7. Spread a layer of pinto beans over the cheese.
8. Repeat the layering process (tortillas, chicken, cheese, beans) until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of tortillas on top.
9. Pour the red enchilada sauce evenly over the top layer.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and heated through.
11. Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, then slice and serve.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it is ready for baking once you have assembled your casserole.
2. Season the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken pieces with chili powder, ground cumin, and garlic powder. Toss gently to ensure all the chicken pieces are evenly coated with the seasonings.
3. Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
4. Layer the Tortillas
Place a layer of corn tortillas at the bottom of the greased baking dish. Make sure they cover the bottom completely.
5. Add the Chicken Layer
Spread the seasoned chicken evenly over the layer of tortillas, ensuring an even distribution for a balanced flavor in every bite.
6. Sprinkle Cheese
Sprinkle a portion of the shredded Colby Jack cheese over the chicken layer. The cheese will melt and add a creamy texture.
7. Spread the Beans
Add a layer of pinto beans on top of the cheese, spreading them out to cover the cheese evenly.
8. Repeat the Layering
Continue the layering process by adding another layer of tortillas followed by chicken, cheese, and beans. Repeat this until all ingredients are used up, ending with a layer of tortillas on top.
9. Add the Enchilada Sauce
Pour the red enchilada sauce evenly over the top layer of tortillas. Make sure to cover the tortillas thoroughly for added moisture and flavor.
10. Bake the Casserole
Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. Look for bubbling edges and a heated-through center.
11. Serve
After baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Then slice it into portions and serve.
Notes
Cooking Time
Keep an eye on the casserole as cooking times may vary slightly depending on your oven.
Serving Suggestions
This dish can be garnished with sour cream, chopped cilantro, or sliced jalapeños for added flavor.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Cook techniques
Layering
Layering is a technique used to create depth of flavor and texture in dishes. In this recipe, corn tortillas, seasoned chicken, cheese, and beans are layered in a baking dish, allowing the ingredients to meld together during baking.
Seasoning
Seasoning involves adding herbs and spices to enhance the flavor of a dish. The cooked chicken in this recipe is seasoned with chili powder, ground cumin, and garlic powder before baking, ensuring each bite is flavorful.
Baking
Baking is a dry heat cooking method often used for casseroles. This recipe calls for baking the layered ingredients at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes, allowing the dish to become bubbly and heated throughout.
Greasing the Baking Dish
Greasing the baking dish prevents the food from sticking and makes it easier to serve. A light coating of oil or cooking spray ensures that the layers come out intact after baking.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Colby Jack cheese with other types of cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, according to your preference.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the layers ahead of time and store the dish in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add cooked vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini between the layers to enhance nutrition and flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Corn tortillas are typically gluten-free, but be sure to check the packaging for any gluten content if you have dietary restrictions.
Conclusion
This layered chicken enchilada casserole is an easy and delicious way to enjoy your favorite Mexican flavors in one dish. Perfect for feeding a crowd or simplifying weeknight meals, this recipe provides a delightful combination of textures and tastes with each bite. The seasoned chicken, creamy cheese, and hearty beans make for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Southwestern Quinoa Bowl
Combine cooked quinoa with black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, avocado, and lime juice. Serve with a sprinkle of cheese for added richness.
Chicken Taco Salad
Toss shredded lettuce with seasoned chicken, black beans, corn, diced peppers, and a zesty dressing. Top with tortilla strips for crunch.
Pinto Bean Chili
Prepare a hearty chili with pinto beans, diced tomatoes, bell peppers, and ground cumin. Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a filling meal.
Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas
Layer tortillas with seasoned chicken, pinto beans, and Colby Jack cheese. Cook on a skillet until golden brown and serve with salsa.
Vegetable Enchiladas
Fill corn tortillas with sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach. Top with red enchilada sauce and cheese, then bake until bubbly.
