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Shredded Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Shredded Chicken Enchilada Casserole
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A simple and flavorful Shredded Chicken Enchilada Casserole combining tender shredded chicken, rich enchilada sauce, melted cheese, and fresh ingredients to create a comforting Mexican-inspired dish perfect for weeknight dinners and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Sauce

  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached breasts)
  • 1 cup enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Optional: 1 jalapeño or 1/4 cup mild green chilies, chopped
  • Optional: spices such as smoked paprika, chipotle powder to taste

Tortillas and Cheese

  • 8–10 corn or flour tortillas
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese blend (cheddar and Monterey Jack)

Additional Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup black beans (optional, drained and rinsed)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Diced avocado (for garnish, optional)
  • Sour cream (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken and Sauce: Shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a skillet, sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and softened. Add the enchilada sauce, optional jalapeño or green chilies, and any desired spices, then combine with the shredded chicken thoroughly to infuse flavors.
  2. Assemble the Casserole Layers: Grease a baking dish and spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom. Layer the tortillas over the sauce, followed by a portion of the chicken mixture and shredded cheese. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
  3. Bake Until Bubbly and Golden: Cover the casserole with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the cheese to brown and become bubbly, indicating it is ready to serve.
  4. Garnish and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly once taken out of the oven. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream to add freshness and creaminess with every bite.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add flavor.
  • Warm tortillas before layering to prevent cracking.
  • Do not overuse enchilada sauce to avoid excess moisture and sogginess.
  • Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking to help it set.
  • Experiment with cheese blends such as queso fresco, pepper jack, or mozzarella for different tastes and textures.

Nutrition

Keywords: shredded chicken casserole, chicken enchilada casserole, Mexican casserole, easy weeknight dinner, enchilada bake, family dinner recipe

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/shredded-chicken-enchilada-casserole/