Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Chicken Enchilada Casserole is a delicious and hearty Mexican-inspired dish that combines layers of chicken, tortillas, cheese, and enchilada sauce. It's a crowd-pleasing meal that can be prepared in advance and baked to perfection.

Here's a recipe for Chicken Enchilada Casserole:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 8-10 small corn tortillas
• 2 cups enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups shredded cheese (such as cheddar or Monterey Jack)
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or a mix)
• 1/2 cup corn kernels (optional)
• 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat a small amount of cooking oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers and cook until they soften, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. If using corn and black beans, add them to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. In a separate saucepan, heat the enchilada sauce until warmed through.
5. In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a small amount of enchilada sauce on the bottom.
6. Place a layer of tortillas over the sauce, tearing them into pieces to fit if necessary.
7. Spread a layer of cooked chicken over the tortillas, followed by a layer of the onion and bell pepper mixture.
8. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over the chicken and vegetables.
9. Pour some enchilada sauce over the cheese, covering it evenly.
10. Repeat the layers, starting with another layer of tortillas, followed by chicken, vegetables, cheese, and sauce. Continue until you've used up all the ingredients, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
11. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
12. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
13. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
14. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired, and serve hot.

Enjoy your delicious Chicken Enchilada Casserole! It pairs well with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa.