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- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken - 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed - 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce (red or green) - 1 cup corn (frozen or canned) - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon chili powder - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder - Salt and freshly ground black pepper - 8 corn tortillas, cut into strips - Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish, optional) Gather all these ingredients before you start cooking. Using shredded cooked chicken makes it quick and easy. Canned black beans and corn save you time too. The enchilada sauce adds a rich flavor, while cheese gives it that melty goodness we all love. The seasonings are simple but pack a punch. Ground cumin and chili powder will enhance the taste. Don't forget to add salt and pepper to your liking. With fresh cilantro, you get a nice touch of color and flavor. If you want to try different ingredients, feel free! You can use rotisserie chicken or swap in other beans. This recipe is flexible and fun, so go ahead and make it your own. For the full recipe, check out the details above. - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). - Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. - In a big bowl, mix shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and enchilada sauce. - Add seasonings like cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well. - Start layering by spreading tortilla strips across the bottom. - Add half of the chicken mixture, then sprinkle 1 cup of cheese over it. - Layer more tortilla strips and the rest of the chicken mixture. - Finish with the last cup of cheese on top for a gooey finish. - Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. - Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes. Enjoy making this Easy Chicken Enchilada Casserole! For a complete guide, check the Full Recipe. - Ensure even layering for optimal flavor distribution. This makes each bite taste amazing. - Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps it set up nicely. - Serve with sour cream and fresh salad on the side. This adds color and flavor. - Add sliced jalapeños for an extra kick. They make the dish pop with heat. - Substitute with low-fat cheese for a lighter version. This cuts calories without losing taste. - Use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier alternative. They add fiber and nutrients. By following these tips, your Easy Chicken Enchilada Casserole will shine at the dinner table. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. {{image_4}} You can easily change up the main ingredients in your chicken enchilada casserole. If you want a different protein, try shredding beef or turkey instead of chicken. Both options add unique flavors. You can also switch the beans. Use pinto or kidney beans for a new taste. This lets you customize your dish based on what you have at home. Want to make your casserole a bit spicier? Add diced green chilies to the mix. They bring a nice heat and flavor. If you prefer less spice, cut back on the chili powder. This will give you a milder dish without losing taste. Adjust these spices to match your family’s preferences. You can make this casserole vegetarian, too. Swap out the chicken for extra vegetables. Bell peppers and zucchini work well and add color. If you want a dairy-free version, look for vegan cheese alternatives. This way, you can enjoy a tasty meal without meat or dairy. For more details on making this dish, check the Full Recipe. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This keeps the flavors fresh. I recommend letting the casserole cool before sealing it. This step helps prevent moisture from building up inside. You can freeze the casserole before baking for up to 3 months. This is great for meal prep! To bake from frozen, just thaw it in the fridge overnight. This way, it cooks evenly when you bake it. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This method gives the best results. If you're short on time, microwaving is also an option for quicker serving. Just cover the casserole to keep it moist. For the best taste, I suggest reheating in the oven whenever possible. For the full recipe, check out the complete guide above. - Follow the step-by-step instructions provided in the recipe. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Mix your chicken, beans, corn, and sauce in a bowl. Add spices and stir well. Layer the tortilla strips, chicken mixture, and cheese in a baking dish. Bake for 25 minutes covered, then 10-15 minutes uncovered for a bubbly finish. - Yes, you can assemble it and refrigerate or freeze it before baking. This makes it easy for busy days. Just remember to bake it when you're ready. If frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight to make baking easier. - Absolutely! You can adjust ingredients, levels of spiciness, and explore various additions as detailed above. Want it spicier? Add diced green chilies. Prefer beans? You can switch them out for your favorites. The choice is yours! - This casserole serves approximately 6 people. It’s a great dish for families or gatherings. You can easily double the recipe if you have more mouths to feed. - Consider serving with a fresh vegetable salad or chips and salsa. A side of sour cream also adds a nice touch. You can even include some sliced jalapeños for those who like it spicy. Enjoy your delicious meal! This blog post shows how to make a tasty Chicken Enchilada Casserole. You learned about the main ingredients, seasonings, and step-by-step instructions. I shared tips and variations to make the dish your own. Plus, I explained how to store and reheat leftovers. In my view, this casserole is simple, customizable, and perfect for any meal. It’s packed with flavor and easy to prepare. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do. Dive in and share with friends and family!

Easy Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Looking for a delicious and easy dinner idea? Try this Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole! Packed with shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and topped with melty cheddar cheese, this comforting dish is sure to be a hit. Perfect for busy nights, it takes just 50 minutes to prepare and serve. Ready to impress your family? Click through to explore the full recipe and make this mouthwatering casserole tonight!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups shredded cooked chicken

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (10 oz) of your choice of enchilada sauce (red or green)

1 cup corn (frozen or canned, drained if canned)

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

8 corn tortillas, cut into strips

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole will cook evenly.

    In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the shredded chicken, drained black beans, corn, and your chosen enchilada sauce.

      Next, add the spices: sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed.

        Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by greasing it lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

          Begin layering your casserole by spreading a layer of the tortilla strips evenly across the bottom of the dish.

            Evenly distribute half of the chicken mixture over the tortilla strips and then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese across that layer.

              Follow with another layer of tortilla strips, then the remaining chicken mixture, finishing with the last cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top for that melty finish.

                Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture, and bake in your preheated oven for 25 minutes.

                  After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil, allowing the cheese to brown. Bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is delectably melted and bubbly.

                    Once baked, take the casserole out of the oven and allow it to cool for about 5-10 minutes. This will help it set and make serving easier.

                      If desired, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before cutting into squares and serving. Enjoy your delicious creation!

                        Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6

                          - Presentation Tips: Serve with a side of sour cream and a fresh salad for a complete meal. You could also add a sprinkle of sliced jalapeños on top for an extra kick!