Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole
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### **Introduction**
Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole is a warm, comforting, and crowd-pleasing dish that brings all the classic flavors of Mexican enchiladas into a simple layered bake. With tender shredded chicken, zesty enchilada sauce, layers of soft tortillas, and gooey cheese, it’s the perfect dish for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week.
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### **Origin and Cultural Significance**
Enchiladas originate from Mexico, where the tradition of rolling tortillas around fillings dates back to Aztec times. Classic enchiladas are typically rolled tortillas filled with meats, cheeses, or beans, covered in chili sauce. The casserole version is a modern North American adaptation that simplifies the process by layering the ingredients like a lasagna, making it more convenient for home cooks while preserving the core flavors. This adaptation is especially popular in Tex-Mex cuisine, where hearty, cheesy, and family-style meals are staples.
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### **Ingredients Quantity (Serves 6–8)**
* 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
* 2 cups red enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
* 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (or cheddar/Monterey Jack)
* 10–12 small corn tortillas (or 6 large flour tortillas)
* 1 cup sour cream (optional, for topping or layering)
* 1 small onion, finely diced
* 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles (optional for spice)
* 1 teaspoon ground cumin
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)
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### **Optional Additions**
* **Black beans or pinto beans** (1 cup) for extra fiber
* **Corn kernels** (fresh, frozen, or canned)
* **Jalapeños** or **hot sauce** for more heat
* **Avocado** or **guacamole** as a creamy topping
* **Lime wedges** for serving
* **Sliced olives** for a tangy contrast
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### **Tips for Success**
1. **Use pre-cooked chicken** to save time—rotisserie or leftover roast chicken works beautifully.
2. **Warm the tortillas** slightly before layering to prevent tearing.
3. **Let it rest after baking** (10–15 minutes) before slicing to allow the layers to set.
4. **Use freshly shredded cheese** for better melting and flavor than pre-shredded.
5. **Layer evenly**—spread the ingredients uniformly to ensure every bite is balanced.
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### **Instructions**
1. **Preheat oven** to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, diced onion, green chiles, cumin, garlic powder, and half of the enchilada sauce.
3. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom.
5. Layer 3–4 tortillas (cut to fit if needed), half of the chicken mixture, and sprinkle with cheese.
6. Repeat with another layer of tortillas, chicken, and cheese.
7. Top with remaining tortillas, sauce, and finish with a generous layer of cheese.
8. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
9. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
10. Let rest before slicing. Garnish with cilantro and serve with sour cream or avocado if desired.
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### **Description**
This casserole is creamy, cheesy, and packed with the bold, tangy flavors of enchilada sauce. Every bite melts in your mouth with layers of tender chicken and gooey cheese balanced by soft tortillas. It’s hearty and satisfying while still offering customizable elements to suit your taste and spice preference.
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### **Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. 1/8 of casserole)**
* **Calories**: \~380–450
* **Protein**: \~28g
* **Fat**: \~22g
* **Carbohydrates**: \~25g
* **Fiber**: \~3g
* **Sodium**: \~780mg
* **Sugar**: \~3g
*(Varies depending on exact ingredients and portions used.)*
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### **Conclusion**
Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole is a dish that delivers both comfort and convenience. It captures the essence of Mexican home-cooking while accommodating the pace of modern life. The layering process simplifies traditional enchiladas, making it easier and faster without compromising flavor.
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### **Recommendation**
Serve this casserole with a crisp green salad, Spanish rice, or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal. It stores well in the fridge for 3–4 days and freezes beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or leftover lunches.
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### **Embracing Healthful Indulgence**
While rich and satisfying, this dish can be lightened with a few tweaks—using low-fat cheese, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, whole-grain tortillas, and adding more veggies. It’s a great example of how indulgent comfort food can still support a balanced, health-conscious lifestyle when approached with intention.
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