Imagine a mouthwatering meal that combines the comfort of a hearty casserole with the zesty flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine - all prepared in a single skillet! This Chicken Enchilada Casserole Skillet is not just a recipe; it's a culinary adventure that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you're craving a quick, delicious meal that will have your family begging for seconds, this dish promises to be your new go-to recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can enchilada sauce
- 1 cup corn
- 1 cup black beans, drained
- 2 cups tortilla chips
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Ensure all ingredients are prepared and measured before starting.
- If chicken is not already cooked, quickly sauté or shred pre-cooked chicken, seasoning with salt, pepper, and cumin to enhance flavor profile.
- Add drained black beans and corn to the skillet, stirring to combine and warm through for approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Pour half the enchilada sauce into the skillet, creating a simmering base for the ingredients. Stir gently to coat all components evenly.
- Crush tortilla chips into rough pieces and sprinkle half across the skillet, creating a textural base layer for the casserole.
- Add shredded chicken over the tortilla chip layer, distributing evenly across the skillet's surface.
- Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the chicken, ensuring complete coverage.
- Generously spread shredded cheese across the top, allowing it to melt and create a golden, bubbling surface.
- Cover skillet with a lid and reduce heat to low, allowing cheese to melt and ingredients to meld together for 8-10 minutes.
- Remove lid and let casserole sit for 2-3 minutes to slightly crisp the edges and allow sauce to thicken.
- Serve hot directly from the skillet, optionally garnishing with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños for added flavor.
Tips
- Use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken to dramatically cut down on preparation time.
- For extra flavor, toast your tortilla chips briefly before crushing them to enhance their nutty taste.
- Choose a high-quality enchilada sauce or make your own for a more authentic flavor profile.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
- Experiment with different cheese blends like pepper jack or a Mexican cheese mix for varied taste.
- Allow the skillet to rest for a few minutes after cooking to let the flavors meld and the sauce thicken.
- For a healthier version, use whole grain tortilla chips and low-fat cheese.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for a burst of freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 95mg
