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Chicken Enchilada Casserole Recipe, Meal Culture & Philosophy, History
Servings:
This recipe serves 6-8 people. Each serving is approximately 1.5 cups.
Baking Dish Size:
Use a 9x13-inch baking dish, which has a capacity of approximately 3.75 quarts.
Ingredients:
2 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie or cooked chicken breasts)
Option: Use 2-3 cooked and shredded chicken breasts instead of pre-cooked chicken.
12 corn tortillas, cut in halves or quarters
2 cups enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade, see below)
Option: Make enchilada sauce from scratch (recipe below).
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
Option: Use 1.5 cups of cooked black beans instead of canned.
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
1 tsp cumin powder
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Optional Ingredients:
1 cup frozen corn, thawed
Option: Use 1 cup of fresh corn kernels.
1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
Option: Use 1/4 cup of finely diced fresh jalapeño or poblano peppers.
1/4 cup sliced black olives (for garnish)
Homemade Enchilada Sauce (if preferred):
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp flour
3 tbsp chili powder
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/4 tsp dried oregano
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Directions:
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Sauce (if homemade):
Heat olive oil in a small pot over medium heat. Add flour and stir constantly for about 1 minute.
Add chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and oregano. Gradually add chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps.
Simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the Casserole:
In a large baking dish (9x13 inches), spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce at the bottom.
Place a layer of tortillas to cover the bottom, overlapping slightly.
Add a layer of shredded chicken, black beans, and cheese. Sprinkle with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Drizzle enchilada sauce over the layer, then add more tortillas.
Repeat layers until ingredients are used up, ending with a final layer of cheese on top.
Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with guacamole, sour cream, and cilantro if desired.
Substitutions & Options:
Meat: Substitute chicken with shredded pork, beef, or tofu for a vegetarian version.
Beans: Pinto beans can be used in place of black beans.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas can be used, but may result in a softer texture.
Cheese: Vegan cheese or dairy-free alternatives can be used for a vegan version.
Heat: Adjust the level of heat by using mild, medium, or hot enchilada sauce and adding or reducing spices like chili powder and green chiles.
Complementary Foods & Beverages:
Side Dish: Serve with Mexican rice or a fresh salad topped with avocado and lime vinaigrette.
Beverages: Pair with agua fresca, iced tea, or sparkling water with a twist of lime.
Dessert: Finish the meal with a creamy flan or churros with chocolate sauce.
Table Service Suggestions:
Serve the casserole in colorful, ceramic dishes to evoke a traditional Mexican atmosphere. Offer sides in smaller bowls so guests can customize their plates. Provide warm corn tortillas on the side for guests to make mini enchilada tacos if desired.
Meal Culture & Philosophy:
Chicken enchilada casserole is a comforting, communal dish that brings people together. Originating from the classic enchilada, this layered version simplifies the process without sacrificing flavor. It’s perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners, encouraging shared moments around the table. This recipe embodies the versatility of Mexican cuisine, allowing for countless variations and personal touches.
History:
Enchiladas trace back to the Aztecs, who used corn tortillas as versatile food wraps. Over time, these wraps were filled with various ingredients and covered in chili sauces, evolving into the dish we know today. The casserole adaptation is a North American twist that layers traditional flavors in a convenient, family-friendly format, highlighting the fusion of cultures and the evolution of cuisine across borders.
Enjoy this vibrant, satisfying Chicken Enchilada Casserole and savor the shared experience it brings to your table!
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