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Easy Cheesy Dump-and-Bake Chicken Enchilada Casserole

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A quick and comforting chicken enchilada casserole that combines shredded chicken, cream cheese, and a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, baked to bubbly perfection. Perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken recommended)
  • 8 small or 4 large flour tortillas, cut into strips (whole wheat preferred)
  • 1 can (10 ounces) enchilada sauce, medium heat
  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 ½ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 can diced green chilies (mild or hot)
  • ½ cup chopped onion (optional)
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, diced green chilies, chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, and half of the enchilada sauce (5 ounces). Stir until evenly mixed. Add salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom.
  4. Arrange a layer of tortilla strips covering the base of the dish.
  5. Spoon about one-third of the chicken mixture evenly over the tortillas.
  6. Sprinkle with one-third of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
  7. Repeat the layering two more times: tortillas, chicken filling, cheeses, and drizzle the remaining enchilada sauce over the top.
  8. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
  9. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to set.
  10. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with optional sour cream or guacamole.

Notes

If casserole looks dry during baking, add a tablespoon or two of water or extra sauce around edges halfway through. Avoid overloading the dish with filling to prevent sogginess. Let rest before serving for cleaner portions. Warming enchilada sauce before mixing helps incorporation. Can be adapted for vegetarian, low-carb, dairy-free, and slow cooker methods.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken enchilada casserole, dump and bake, cheesy casserole, quick dinner, family meal, comfort food

Find it online: https://yumbelle.com/easy-cheesy-dump-and-bake-chicken-enchilada-casserole-recipe-for-perfect-family-dinners/