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Easy 5-Ingredient Chicken Enchilada Casserole Recipe for Make-Ahead Meals

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A simple, flavorful chicken enchilada casserole that uses only five ingredients and is perfect for make-ahead meals. Quick to prepare and bake, this comforting Mexican-inspired dish is ideal for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups shredded cooked chicken (about 450g)
  • 8 to 10 small flour or corn tortillas
  • 1 ½ cups red enchilada sauce (about 360ml)
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (about 200g)
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Mix the chicken and beans in a large bowl with about 1 cup (240ml) of enchilada sauce until everything is coated.
  3. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce (about ½ cup/120ml) on the bottom of your baking dish.
  4. Place a layer of tortillas to cover the bottom, overlapping slightly if needed.
  5. Spread one third of the chicken mixture evenly over the tortillas.
  6. Drizzle another ½ cup (120ml) of enchilada sauce over the chicken layer, then sprinkle about one third of the shredded cheese.
  7. Repeat layering two more times: tortillas, chicken mixture, sauce, and cheese. End with a generous cheese layer on top.
  8. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
  9. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  10. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

If preparing ahead, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Add 10-15 minutes to baking time if baking from cold. Rinse canned beans to reduce sodium and avoid metallic taste. Cover casserole with foil while baking to keep moisture in. For a spicier version, add jalapeños or chipotle powder. Can be adapted for vegetarian, low-carb, or slow cooker methods.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken enchilada casserole, easy chicken casserole, make-ahead meals, 5-ingredient recipe, Mexican casserole, quick dinner, shredded chicken casserole

Find it online: https://spoonette.com/easy-5-ingredient-chicken-enchilada-casserole-recipe-for-make-ahead-meals/