Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole

If you’re craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s bursting with bold flavors and gooey cheese, look no further than this Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole. It’s a delightful twist on traditional enchiladas, layered in a casserole dish for easy prep and even easier clean-up. With tender ground chicken, zesty enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, and a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, every bite is pure satisfaction. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or prepping ahead for a gathering, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Top Reasons to Make Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole

• Simple yet flavorful: This recipe combines pantry staples and fresh ingredients for a no-fuss meal that doesn’t skimp on taste.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy leftovers that taste even better the next day.
• Family-friendly: Mild spices and cheesy goodness make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Easily swap ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• One-dish wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing pans.

The Ingredient Lineup

• 1 pound ground chicken: A lean, protein-packed base that soaks up all the flavors.
• 1 cup onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the filling.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that aromatic punch.
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies: Gives a subtle heat and vibrant color.
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds texture, fiber, and protein.
• 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen: Sweetness and crunch to complement the savory components.
• 2 cups enchilada sauce: The heart of the dish—rich, tangy, and perfectly spiced.
• 8 flour tortillas: Soft layers that hold everything together.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty for that irresistible cheesy pull.
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Creamy and mild, balancing the cheddar.
• 1 teaspoon cumin: Earthy warmth that’s essential in Mexican-inspired dishes.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: Brings a mild smoky heat without overpowering the dish.
• Salt and pepper to taste: To enhance all the flavors.
• Fresh cilantro for garnish: Adds a burst of freshness and color.

Tools of the Trade

• Large skillet: For cooking the ground chicken and sautéing vegetables.
• Mixing spoon or spatula: To stir and combine ingredients evenly.
• 9×13-inch casserole dish: Perfect size for layering the enchilada casserole.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise seasoning and ingredient portions.
• Cheese grater: If shredding your own cheese for extra freshness.
• Aluminum foil: For covering the casserole while baking to prevent over-browning.

Build Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole Step by Step

Step 1: Cook the Chicken Mixture

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground chicken, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring frequently, until the chicken is browned and the onions are softened, about 6-8 minutes. Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, and corn. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes to meld the flavors. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your 9×13-inch casserole dish. Pour a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking and add flavor to the base.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients

Place two flour tortillas flat on the bottom of the casserole dish, slightly overlapping. Spread about one-third of the chicken mixture evenly over the tortillas. Drizzle with enchilada sauce and sprinkle a generous handful of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Repeat this layering process two more times—tortillas, chicken mixture, sauce, and cheese—ending with a final layer of tortillas topped with the remaining cheese and enchilada sauce.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the casserole loosely with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Serve with your favorite sides or a fresh salad.

Dietary Swaps & Alternatives

• Protein: Swap ground chicken for ground turkey or beef if preferred.
• Beans: Use pinto beans or kidney beans instead of black beans for a different texture.
• Cheese: Substitute dairy-free cheese blends to make it dairy-free.
• Tortillas: Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option, just be gentle when layering.
• Spices: Adjust chili powder and cumin to suit your heat tolerance or omit for milder flavor.

Learn from These Mistakes

• Overcrowding the skillet while cooking chicken can cause uneven browning—cook in batches if needed.
• Not draining the beans and corn well can make the casserole watery; be sure to rinse and drain thoroughly.
• Skipping the resting time after baking may cause the casserole to fall apart when slicing—patience is key.
• Using low-quality enchilada sauce will affect the overall flavor; homemade or a trusted brand works best.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

This Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. For freezing, prepare the casserole but do not bake. Wrap it securely and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or the whole casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through and bubbly.

FAQ

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of ground chicken?

Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken is a convenient substitute and adds great texture. Just reduce the initial cooking time since the chicken is already cooked.

Is this casserole very spicy?

This recipe uses mild chili powder and green chilies, so it has a gentle heat that’s approachable for most palates. You can always adjust the spices to be milder or spicier based on your preference.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, it’s perfect for make-ahead meals. Assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This is great for saving time on busy days.

What sides go well with Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole?

Try pairing it with a fresh Mexican Street Corn Salad for a bright, crunchy contrast or a creamy avocado dip for extra richness.

Desserts to Finish

• Sweet Heat Sticky Chicken Drumettes – For those who want a savory-sweet finish.
• Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Gratin – A comforting side that doubles as a dessert-worthy treat when made with sweet potatoes.
• Classic churros with cinnamon sugar – A crunchy, sugary way to end your meal.
• Flan or caramel custard – Smooth, creamy, and perfectly sweet.

Wrap-Up

This Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole is a straightforward, delicious recipe that delivers all the flavors of traditional enchiladas with the ease of a layered casserole. The combination of juicy ground chicken, tender beans, sweet corn, and melty cheese all tied together with rich enchilada sauce makes it a satisfying meal for any occasion. Plus, its adaptable nature means you can tweak it to suit your taste or pantry supplies. Next time you want a cheesy, comforting Mexican-inspired dish without a lot of fuss, this casserole has you covered. Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a meal that will quickly become a go-to favorite.

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