Introduction
Get ready for a comforting meal that’s both delicious and simple to prepare—Queso Chicken Enchiladas Bake! This dish is brimming with cheesy goodness and perfectly seasoned chicken, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With just the right amount of spice and a delightful crunch from the tortillas, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup queso cheese sauce
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 1 1/2 cups enchilada sauce
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, drained
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, queso cheese sauce, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
- Spread a small amount of enchilada sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Place about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture in each tortilla, roll them up, and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top of the rolled tortillas.
- Sprinkle the shredded Mexican blend cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize the filling by adding sautéed onions or bell peppers.
- If you want extra heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños to the mixture.
- These enchiladas can be made ahead of time; simply assemble and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Serve with a side of guacamole or sour cream for an added touch!
Cooking Techniques
Mastering the art of rolling enchiladas is key to enjoying a great presentation and texture. Ensure that your tortillas are warm to make them pliable, allowing for easier rolling without tearing.
FAQ
- Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe? Yes, rotisserie chicken is a wonderful time-saver and adds great flavor!
- What can I substitute for the black beans? You can use pinto beans or even cooked lentils as an alternative.
- How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Conclusion
Delicious, cheesy, and satisfying, these Queso Chicken Enchiladas Bake are sure to win over anyone at your dinner table. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe combines convenience with mouth-watering flavors that everyone will crave. So gather your ingredients and get ready to bake up some smiles!