Are you looking for a delicious and easy meal to make for dinner tonight? Look no further than this 1 serving Chicken Enchilada Casserole! With only 254 calories per serving, you can indulge in all the rich, cheesy goodness without any guilt.
This casserole is also packed with nutritional value. With chicken for protein, beans for fiber, and vegetables for vitamins, it's a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
In this article, we'll explore how to make this tasty casserole, along with some variations, tips and tricks, and serving suggestions. Let's get cooking!
Preparation time
Preparation time for this casserole is minimal. It takes about 10 minutes to prep the ingredients and another 25-30 minutes to bake in the oven.
Cooking time
The casserole should be baked at 375°F for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Servings
This recipe makes one serving, but can easily be doubled or tripled for larger groups or meal prep.
Ingredients
To make this casserole, you'll need: 1/2 cup of cooked shredded chicken, 1/4 cup of canned black beans, 1/4 cup of canned corn, 1/4 cup of diced tomatoes, 1/4 cup of enchilada sauce, 1/4 cup of shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro. You can use store-bought enchilada sauce or make your own by combining chili powder, cumin, tomato sauce, and chicken broth. If you're short on time, feel free to use pre-cooked chicken or a rotisserie chicken from the grocery store. You can also substitute the black beans and corn for any other canned beans or vegetables you have on hand.
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. 2. In a small baking dish, layer the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. 3. Pour the enchilada sauce over the top of the mixture and sprinkle with shredded cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Top with chopped cilantro before serving.
calories: 254 Protein: 23g Fat: 11g
Variations
There are endless variations to this casserole! Try swapping out the shredded chicken for ground beef or tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or top with avocado or sour cream for extra creaminess. The possibilities are endless!
Tips and tricks
To save time, prep the ingredients ahead of time and store in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to use. This casserole also makes for great leftovers - simply store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for later. If you're watching your carb intake, try using a lower-carb or cauliflower-based tortilla instead of traditional corn tortillas.
Making ahead
This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer until ready to bake. Simply assemble the ingredients in a baking dish, cover with plastic wrap or foil, and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freezer for up to 3 months. To bake after refrigerating, remove from the fridge and let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking. For frozen casseroles, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake according to instructions.
Serving suggestions
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but can also be paired with a side salad or some steamed veggies for an extra boost of nutrition. To really take it up a notch, serve with a side of homemade guacamole or salsa. Enjoy!
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Frequently Asked Questions about Chicken Enchilada Casserole
1. How many calories are in a serving of Chicken Enchilada Casserole?
One serving of Chicken Enchilada Casserole contains 254 calories.
2. Is Chicken Enchilada Casserole spicy?
The level of spice in a Chicken Enchilada Casserole can vary based on the recipe. Some recipes may use mild ingredients while others may include hot peppers or spices. It is best to check the specific recipe for the level of spiciness.
3. Can Chicken Enchilada Casserole be made ahead of time?
Yes, Chicken Enchilada Casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. To reheat, simply bake in the oven until heated through.
4. What are the ingredients in Chicken Enchilada Casserole?
The ingredients in Chicken Enchilada Casserole can vary based on the recipe, but typically include chicken, enchilada sauce, tortillas, cheese, and various vegetables such as onions, peppers, and tomatoes.
5. Can Chicken Enchilada Casserole be made vegetarian?
Yes, Chicken Enchilada Casserole can be made vegetarian by substituting the chicken with tofu or using a meat substitute such as soy or quorn. Additionally, the cheese can be replaced with a non-dairy alternative to make the recipe vegan.