Savory Chicken Enchilada Casserole Easy Dinner Recipe
Looking for a quick and tasty dinner? This Savory Chicken Enchilada Casserole is your answer! Packed with shredded chicken, black beans, and cheese, it’s easy to make, and the whole family will love it. Whether you’re a busy parent or just short on time, this recipe simplifies your evening routine. Dive into this mouthwatering dish that’s both satisfying and simple! Ready to cook? Let’s get started!
Ingredients
To make a tasty Chicken Enchilada Casserole, you need some basic ingredients. Here’s what you will need:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
– 8 small corn tortillas, cut into quarters
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup sour cream (for serving)
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
These ingredients create a mix of flavors and textures. The shredded chicken brings protein, while the black beans add fiber. The corn adds sweetness, and the spices give depth. You can also adjust the heat by changing the chili powder.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Sauté onion until translucent and add minced garlic.
– Combine chicken, enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, and spices in the skillet.
First, I set my oven to 350°F. This ensures an even heat for baking. Next, I heat a splash of oil in a large skillet. I add the chopped onion. I cook it until it turns soft and clear, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then, I add the minced garlic. I stir it for one more minute. The aroma fills the kitchen, and it smells amazing.
Now, I grab my cooked chicken. You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for this dish. I add it to the skillet along with the enchilada sauce, rinsed black beans, corn, and spices. I mix everything well. I cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes until it’s warm. This step brings all the flavors together.
Layering the Casserole
– Arrange half of the tortilla quarters in a greased baking dish.
– Add half of the chicken mixture and sprinkle with cheese.
– Repeat layering with remaining ingredients.
For the layering, I take a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. I place half of the tortilla quarters on the bottom. Then, I spoon half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas. I make sure to spread it evenly. After that, I sprinkle one cup of shredded cheese on top. The cheese melts beautifully while baking.
Next, I repeat the steps with the remaining tortilla quarters and chicken mixture. Finally, I top it all with the last of the cheese. This layered structure gives the casserole its tasty texture.
Baking and Serving
– Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes before removing the foil.
– Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
– Allow cooling and serve with sour cream and cilantro.
Now, I cover the casserole with foil. I bake it for 20 minutes to let the flavors meld. After that, I remove the foil. I bake it for another 10 to 15 minutes. I watch for the cheese to turn bubbly and golden.
Once done, I let it cool for about 5 minutes. This helps the layers set and makes servings easier. I love serving it with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. It’s a colorful and tasty finish!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
– Use leftover rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
– Adjust spice levels by adding more or less chili powder.
These tips help save time and fit your taste. Leftover chicken makes this dish quick and easy. You get great flavor without all the work. If you love heat, add extra chili powder. If you prefer mild, cut back on the spice. Everyone can enjoy this meal.
Serving Suggestions
– Pair with a side salad or tortilla chips.
– Offer various toppings like avocado or jalapeños.
Serving this dish is fun. A fresh salad adds crunch and color. Tortilla chips give a nice texture too. You can let everyone choose their own toppings. Fresh avocado or spicy jalapeños work well. This makes each plate special and personal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
– Reheat in oven or microwave before serving.
Leftovers are great for busy nights. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay fresh for a few days. Reheat in the oven to keep the cheese melty. The microwave works for quick meals too. Enjoy your savory chicken enchilada casserole again!
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can mix things up with your Chicken Enchilada Casserole. Swap chicken for ground turkey or beef for a different flavor. This change keeps the meal hearty and delicious. You can also utilize green enchilada sauce instead of red. This swap will give the dish a fresh taste.
Vegetarian Options
If you want a meat-free dish, replace chicken with black beans or grilled vegetables. These options add protein and texture. You can also enhance your casserole with extra cheese and seasonal veggies. This will make the dish satisfying and colorful.
Flavor Enhancements
To take your casserole to the next level, add diced bell peppers for crunch. They bring a nice bite and sweetness. You can also incorporate different types of cheese for depth of flavor. Mixing cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack can make each bite exciting.
Storage Info
How to Store
– Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days.
– Freeze assembled casserole before baking for up to 3 months.
Storing your Chicken Enchilada Casserole is easy and smart. After you enjoy a meal, let the casserole cool. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. This keeps your food fresh and tasty. If you plan to save it for later, freezing is a great option. Just wrap it well before storing.
Thawing Instructions
– Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
– Bake from frozen, adding extra cooking time.
When you’re ready to eat your frozen casserole, move it to the fridge. Let it thaw overnight. This way, it cooks evenly. If you forget to thaw it, no problem! You can bake it straight from the freezer. Just remember to add some extra time to the cooking.
Reheating Techniques
– Reheat in the microwave for individual portions.
– Use the oven for large servings to maintain texture.
Reheating is simple, too. For quick meals, pop a portion in the microwave. Heat it for a minute or two until warm. If you have a large serving, use your oven. This keeps the cheese bubbly and the texture just right. Enjoy those tasty layers again!
FAQs
Can I make Chicken Enchilada Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and assemble it the night before. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat. This makes dinner easy and stress-free.
What sides go well with Chicken Enchilada Casserole?
Serve your casserole with rice, beans, or simple green salads. These sides balance the flavors and add freshness to your meal.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
Look for bubbly cheese and golden brown edges. These signs show that your casserole is cooked perfectly and ready to enjoy.
Is Chicken Enchilada Casserole spicy?
The spice level can change based on the chili powder you use. For a milder taste, use less chili powder or choose a mild sauce. This way, everyone can enjoy it!
This casserole is a tasty mix of chicken, beans, and cheese. Each step is simple and fun. You can swap ingredients or add flair to suit your taste. Whether you’re busy or just planning meals, this dish is quick and easy. With great tips on storage, you’ll have delicious leftovers too. Enjoy this meal with friends or family any night of the week. It’s sure to please everyone and keep them coming back for more!
![To make Tomato Basil Feta Pasta, gather these items: - 400g pasta (penne or fusilli) - 300g cherry tomatoes, halved - 200g feta cheese, crumbled - 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1/4 cup olive oil - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - Salt and pepper to taste - Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional) You can swap some ingredients if needed. Here are some ideas: - Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta instead of regular pasta. - Swap cherry tomatoes with diced regular tomatoes. - If feta is hard to find, try goat cheese for a different taste. - For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based feta cheese. - Instead of fresh basil, use dried basil, but use less since it is stronger. Fresh ingredients make a big difference in this dish. Here are some tips: - Look for firm cherry tomatoes with bright color and no bruises. - Choose basil leaves that are vibrant green and not wilted or brown. - Smell the tomatoes; they should have a sweet, fresh scent. - When buying garlic, select bulbs that are firm and dry, with no soft spots. - Always check the feta cheese for freshness; it should be creamy and not crumbly. This recipe brings vibrant flavors together, making it a real treat. For the full recipe, check out the provided link. To start, fill a large pot with water and add salt. Bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, add 400g of pasta, like penne or fusilli. Cook it for about 8-10 minutes until it’s al dente. Al dente means the pasta is firm but not hard. After cooking, save 1 cup of the pasta water. Then, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. In a large bowl, mix together 300g of halved cherry tomatoes and 200g of crumbled feta cheese. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic for flavor. Pour in 1/4 cup of olive oil to give it richness. If you like some heat, toss in 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. This blend will create a fresh and tasty base for your pasta. Now, add the cooked pasta to the bowl with the tomato mixture. Toss everything together gently. Make sure that the pasta is well coated with the olive oil and feta. If the pasta seems dry, pour in some of the reserved pasta water, 1-2 tablespoons at a time. Stir until you reach a creamy texture. Finally, fold in 1/2 cup of chopped fresh basil leaves. This will add a bright flavor just before serving. Enjoy your Tomato Basil Feta Pasta! For the full recipe, check the details above. To get that perfect creamy texture, start by saving some pasta water. After cooking your pasta, reserve about one cup of the water before draining. This water has starch that helps bind the sauce. When you mix the pasta with the tomato and feta mixture, add the reserved water a little at a time. Keep mixing until you reach the creaminess you want. This trick makes your dish rich and smooth. Presentation matters. It can make your meal feel special. After plating your pasta, add some fresh basil leaves on top. This adds color and a fresh aroma. You can also sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese for a touch of elegance. Use a few whole cherry tomatoes for a pop of color. These small steps make a big difference in how your dish looks. One common mistake is overcooking the pasta. Always cook it al dente. This keeps the pasta firm and helps it hold the sauce better. Another mistake is not reserving enough pasta water. If you skip this step, your dish may end up dry. Finally, avoid adding all the basil too early. Fold it in just before serving. This keeps its bright flavor and fresh look. By watching these details, you will make a delicious Tomato Basil Feta Pasta every time. {{image_2}} You can easily add protein to this dish. Grilled chicken works well. Simply cook it, slice it, and mix it in. Shrimp also adds great flavor. Sauté shrimp in olive oil until pink, then toss with the pasta. Both options make the meal more filling and nutritious. For a vegetarian twist, try adding more veggies. Spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini brighten up the dish. You can also add olives for a salty kick. Capers or artichokes bring a unique taste. Each addition gives the pasta a new flavor and texture. You can change this dish with the seasons. In summer, use fresh heirloom tomatoes for sweetness. Fall calls for roasted butternut squash. In winter, add kale or Brussels sprouts for a hearty touch. Each season offers fresh produce to keep your pasta exciting and delicious. To keep your Tomato Basil Feta Pasta fresh, store it in an airtight container. Let it cool first. This helps avoid steam build-up, which can make the pasta soggy. Place the container in the fridge. It will stay good for about three days. Make sure to label it with the date. This way, you can keep track of how long it has been stored. When it's time to eat your leftovers, reheat the pasta carefully. The best way is to use a skillet. Add a splash of water or olive oil to the pan. Heat it on low to medium heat. Stir gently to mix the sauce and pasta. This keeps the dish moist and tasty. You can also use the microwave, but cover it with a damp paper towel. This traps steam and keeps the pasta from drying out. If you want to save your dish for later, freezing works well. First, let the pasta cool completely. Then, divide it into single servings. Use freezer-safe bags or containers to store it. Remember to squeeze out as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. Your pasta can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. This keeps the texture nice and the flavors intact. For the full recipe, check out the details above. Yes, you can use various pasta types. Penne and fusilli work well, but you can try spaghetti or farfalle. The key is to choose a pasta that holds sauce well. Each type gives a slightly different texture, making your meal unique. To make Tomato Basil Feta Pasta gluten-free, choose gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer rice or corn-based options. Follow the cooking instructions on the package. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy this dish without worry. This dish pairs well with many options. You can serve it with a light salad or garlic bread. Roasted vegetables also complement the flavors nicely. For protein, grilled chicken or shrimp works well. You might also enjoy a glass of white wine with this meal. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. To wrap it up, we covered key ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for your dish. I shared helpful advice on selecting fresh produce and avoiding mistakes. You also learned about variations and how to store leftovers. This dish offers great flavors and easy options. Cooking should be fun and delicious. Experiment with ingredients and enjoy your tasty creation!](https://dailydishly.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/0b4f4c47-66c7-4839-80f3-1b898db998c4-768x768.webp)
![- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Seasonings: chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder - Salt and pepper - Vegetables: red bell pepper, green bell pepper, yellow onion - Tortillas: flour or corn - Garnishes: fresh cilantro, lime wedges When you make easy chicken fajitas, you need fresh and tasty ingredients. Start with 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Cut them into thin strips for quick cooking. Next, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. This oil helps the flavors stick. For the seasonings, use: - 1 teaspoon chili powder - 1 teaspoon cumin - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon garlic powder These spices give the chicken a bold taste. Don't forget salt and pepper to enhance the flavor. Now, gather your vegetables. You will need: - 1 red bell pepper, sliced - 1 green bell pepper, sliced - 1 yellow onion, sliced These veggies add color and crunch. You will also need tortillas. Choose either 8 small flour or corn tortillas. Finally, fresh cilantro and lime wedges make great garnishes. The cilantro adds freshness, and the lime gives a zesty kick. With these ingredients, you can create a flavorful family dinner that everyone will enjoy. Check the Full Recipe for more tips! Start by mixing the marinade. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir it well until all the spices blend into the oil. Next, add the sliced chicken to the bowl. Toss the chicken strips in the marinade. Make sure each piece gets coated. Let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes. If you have more time, marinate it in the fridge for up to 2 hours. This gives the chicken great flavor. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken to the skillet. It should sizzle when it hits the pan. Cook for about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure it cooks evenly. You want the chicken to be cooked through and browned. Check that it is no longer pink in the center. Now it’s time for the veggies! Add the sliced bell peppers and onions to the skillet with the chicken. Stir everything together. Cook for another 5 to 7 minutes. You want the vegetables to be tender but still crisp. This adds a nice texture to the dish. The colors from the peppers and onion will make your fajitas look amazing. For the complete recipe, check the [Full Recipe]. To make the best chicken fajitas, marinating is key. I suggest marinating the chicken for at least 15-20 minutes. If you have more time, try marinating for up to 2 hours in the fridge. This extra time allows the flavors to soak in deeply. For cooking, use medium-high heat. This ensures the chicken gets a nice sear without drying out. When it's time to serve, think about how to make your fajitas pop. I like to serve them on a large platter. You can layer the filling beautifully. Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top for a bright touch. Lime wedges are a must-have for squeezing. They add a nice zing! For sides, consider guacamole, salsa, or a fresh salad. These pair well and add more flavors to your meal. One common mistake is overcooking the chicken. This can make it dry and tough. Keep an eye on it while it cooks. You want juicy, tender pieces. Another mistake is not choosing the right tortillas. Flour tortillas are soft and chewy, while corn tortillas are more traditional. Make sure to warm them up before serving. This step makes them easier to fold and enjoy. For the full recipe, check out the Easy Chicken Fajitas section above. {{image_2}} You can easily swap chicken for other proteins. Beef works great if you slice it thin. Use flank steak or sirloin for the best flavor. Shrimp is another tasty option. Just make sure to cook shrimp until it turns pink. Both options keep the dish fun and delicious. If you want a meatless meal, try using plant-based proteins. Tofu or tempeh can be great choices. You can also load up on veggies. Try mushrooms, zucchini, or even eggplant for a hearty bite. The mix of colors makes your fajitas look as good as they taste. To amp up the flavor, add jalapeños. They give a nice heat to the dish. You can also play with different spices. Try adding oregano or coriander for a unique twist. A squeeze of lime juice brightens the flavors, making your fajitas even more amazing. For the full recipe, check out the Easy Chicken Fajitas. To keep your leftover fajitas fresh, store them in airtight containers. Make sure the fajitas cool down to room temperature first. This helps prevent condensation, which can make them soggy. If you have extra tortillas, store them separately to keep them soft. Reheating chicken fajitas is easy. You can do this in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water to steam them slightly and keep them moist. Stir occasionally for about 5 minutes. If you prefer the microwave, place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for 1 to 2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds. Freezing chicken fajitas is a great way to save time. First, let the cooked fajitas cool completely. Then, portion them into freezer bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze both the chicken and vegetables together. When you’re ready to eat them, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat as mentioned above for a quick meal. To add heat, you can use jalapeños. Slice them thin and toss in with the chicken. You could also add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade. If you want more flavor, try a chipotle in adobo sauce. Just a small amount packs a punch. Adjust the spice to your taste. Yes, you can add many vegetables. Here are some great options: - Zucchini - Mushrooms - Corn - Asparagus - Cherry tomatoes These veggies will add color and flavor to your fajitas. Fajitas are great with various sides. Here are some tasty ideas: - Mexican rice - Refried beans - Guacamole - Salsa - Sour cream - Fresh corn salad These sides will complement your chicken fajitas well. You can find the full recipe for Easy Chicken Fajitas in the earlier section. You’ve learned how to make easy chicken fajitas that burst with flavor. We covered the key ingredients, easy steps, and helpful tips. You can customize your fajitas with different proteins and veggies, too. Remember, the right cooking method and storage will keep them fresh. Enjoy crafting your own delicious meals at home! Now, go ahead and impress your family or friends with your fajita skills!](https://dailydishly.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/bddc0842-410c-41cd-a0e7-7c4486f739b3-768x768.webp)
![To make Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs, you need simple and fresh ingredients. Here’s the list: - 1 lb ground chicken or turkey - 1 cup breadcrumbs - 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped - 1/4 cup fresh pineapple, finely diced - 1 egg, beaten - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon ginger, grated - 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred) - 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce - 1 tablespoon sesame oil - 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening) - Sesame seeds for garnish - Fresh cilantro for garnish These ingredients blend well, giving the meatballs a sweet and savory taste. The fresh pineapple adds a fruity twist, making them unique. You can find most of these items at your local grocery store. For the best flavor, use fresh ingredients whenever you can. Check out the Full Recipe for more details on how to combine these elements into a delicious dish. - Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). - Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. - In a large bowl, mix ground chicken or turkey with breadcrumbs. - Add in the chopped green onions, diced pineapple, beaten egg, minced garlic, and grated ginger. - Season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined. - Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches wide. - Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Space them out evenly. - Bake in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. - While the meatballs bake, grab a small saucepan. - Combine soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, and sesame oil in the pan. - If you want to thicken it, mix cornstarch with water and add that too. - Heat the mixture over medium heat until it simmers, then reduce to low. Let it thicken for about 5 minutes. - Once the meatballs are done, take them out of the oven. - Drizzle the teriyaki sauce over the meatballs. Toss gently to coat them. - Transfer them to a serving platter and garnish with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. - Avoid overmixing the meat mixture for tenderness. Mixing too much can make meatballs tough. - Use a cookie scoop for uniform sizing. This helps them cook evenly and look great. - Adjust baking time based on oven type. Every oven heats differently, so watch your meatballs closely. - Use an instant-read thermometer for doneness. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety and juiciness. - Experiment with additional spices or herbs. Try adding garlic powder or fresh basil for a new twist. - Consider adding a splash of citrus for brightness. A little lime or lemon juice can really lift the flavors. Feel free to explore the [Full Recipe] for more detailed steps on making these delicious Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs! {{image_2}} You can switch up the protein in this recipe. Ground beef or pork works great. If you prefer plant-based meals, use lentils or meat substitutes. Each option adds its own flavor and texture. Each choice makes the dish unique. The teriyaki sauce can be customized. For a homemade version, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger. If you like heat, add chili paste or sriracha. You can also use a store-bought spicy teriyaki sauce. Each sauce brings a new twist to the dish. You can add vegetables to your meatballs. Bell peppers or zucchini add color and crunch. They boost nutrition too. For heat, consider crushed red pepper. This adds a nice kick. Feel free to get creative with your additions! To keep your Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container. This method helps lock in flavor and moisture. You can keep them in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure they cool down before sealing them up. This way, they won’t trap steam and become soggy. If you want to save some meatballs for later, freeze them! First, lay the meatballs out on a tray. Freeze them individually for about an hour. This step makes sure they don’t stick together. Once frozen, transfer them to a container or a freezer bag. Use them within 3 months for the best quality. Label the container with the date so you don’t forget! When you're ready to enjoy your frozen meatballs, reheating is simple. Use the oven or microwave for even heating. If using the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15 minutes. For the microwave, place meatballs on a plate and add a splash of water. This helps keep them moist. Heat for about 2-3 minutes, checking to ensure they are hot all the way through. Enjoy your flavorful meal again! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs take about 40 minutes total to cook. This includes 15 minutes for prep and 15 to 20 minutes for baking. Bake them at 400°F (200°C) until they turn golden brown. Yes, you can make these meatballs ahead of time. Prepare the meatball mixture and shape them into balls. Place them on a tray and cover with plastic wrap. You can keep them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake them as usual. These meatballs pair well with many sides. Try serving them with steamed rice or quinoa for a filling meal. You can also add a fresh salad or stir-fried veggies for balance. Pineapple fried rice works great too! Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. You can cook a large batch and store them in containers. They keep well in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze them for later use. Just thaw and reheat when needed. Absolutely! To make the meatballs gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Make sure the soy sauce is gluten-free as well. This way, you can enjoy the same great taste without gluten. To boost the flavor of teriyaki sauce, try adding fresh ginger or garlic. A splash of rice vinegar adds a nice tang. For some heat, include red pepper flakes. These simple tweaks can make a big difference! You can find the full recipe [here]. These Pineapple Teriyaki Meatballs are easy to make and full of flavor. You learned about the key ingredients, helpful tips, and tasty variations. From different proteins to sauce options, the choices are endless. Remember to store leftovers properly to enjoy them later. Experimenting with this recipe will lead to new favorites. So, roll up your sleeves and create some delightful meatballs today!](https://dailydishly.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/2108c202-57e5-4a3c-8ec5-e482c7f00875-768x768.webp)