Chicken Enchilada Casserole
Ingredients:
For the Casserole:
– 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great for convenience)
– 1 (19-ounce) can enchilada sauce (red or green, based on your preference)
– 12 corn tortillas, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 3 cups shredded cheese (Mexican blend or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving (optional):
– Sour cream
– Chopped fresh cilantro
– Diced avocado
– Sliced jalapeños
– Lime wedges
Instructions:
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a bit of oil.
2. **Prepare the Chicken Mixture:** In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with half of the enchilada sauce, diced green chiles, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
3. **Layer the Casserole:**
– **First Layer:** Spread a small amount of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange a layer of cut tortillas over the sauce, covering the bottom of the dish.
– **Second Layer:** Spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas. Top with half of the black beans, corn, and diced onion. Sprinkle one-third of the cheese over the top.
– **Third Layer:** Add another layer of cut tortillas, followed by the remaining chicken mixture, black beans, corn, and onion. Sprinkle another third of the cheese over the top.
– **Fourth Layer:** Finish with a final layer of cut tortillas. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top, making sure all the tortillas are covered. Sprinkle the last of the cheese over the sauce.
4. **Bake:** Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
5. **Cool and Serve:** Allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes before serving to help the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve.
6. **Garnish and Enjoy:** Serve with optional garnishes like sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, and lime wedges.
Enjoy!