Chicken Tortilla Casserole

 Ingredients:

  • 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
  • 12 corn tortillas (6-inch), cut into quarters
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chilies, drained
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15-ounce) can enchilada sauce
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
  • Sliced jalapeños, for garnish (optional)
  • Lime wedges, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or casserole dish with cooking spray or a bit of oil.

  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced tomatoes, diced red and green bell peppers, diced onion, minced garlic, diced green chilies, black beans, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

  3. In another bowl, combine the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.

  4. To assemble the casserole, spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

  5. Place a layer of quartered corn tortillas over the sauce.

  6. Spread half of the chicken and vegetable mixture over the tortillas.

  7. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese mixture over the chicken mixture.

  8. Repeat the layers: tortillas, chicken mixture, and cheese.

  9. Finish with a final layer of tortillas and pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top.

  10. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

  11. After 20 minutes, remove the foil, and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the cheese is melted and slightly browned.

  12. Remove the Chicken Tortilla Casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

  13. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and sliced jalapeños if desired.

  14. Serve the casserole hot with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over individual servings.

  15. Enjoy your delicious and comforting Chicken Tortilla Casserole!

This casserole is a crowd-pleaser that combines the flavors of chicken enchiladas with the convenience of a casserole dish. It's perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion when you're craving Tex-Mex comfort food.