Mexican Enchilada Casserole recipe with black beans
This Mexican Enchilada Casserole recipe with black beans combines layers of shredded chicken, black beans, green chiles, and melted cheese, smothered in rich enchilada sauce. Inspired by New Mexico green chile chicken enchilada casserole, this dish is a family favorite that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (use grilled or rotisserie chicken)
- 1 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 10 oz can diced green chiles (preferably New Mexico green chiles)
- 2 cups green enchilada sauce or red enchilada sauce for a different twist
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 12 small corn tortillas cut into halves
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro optional for garnish
Optional Toppings:
- Sliced avocado
- Chopped green onions
- Diced tomatoes
- Crumbled queso fresco
- Lime wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with non-stick spray.
Step 2: Mix the Chicken Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, black beans, diced green chiles, sour cream, cumin, and chili powder. Stir until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
- Spread about ½ cup of green enchilada sauce at the bottom of the dish.
- Arrange a layer of corn tortilla halves over the sauce, overlapping slightly to cover the bottom.
- Spread a layer of the chicken mixture over the tortillas. Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Repeat layers: enchilada sauce, tortillas, chicken mixture, and cheese until all ingredients are used. End with a generous layer of cheese on top.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Top with sliced avocado, chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, and a sprinkle of cilantro for a beautiful presentation.
Notes
- Authentic Flavor: For a true New Mexico green chile chicken enchilada casserole, use Hatch green chiles if you can find them.
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Layer Perfection: Ensure your layers are even for consistent flavors in every bite of this Mexican casserole enchilada chicken recipe.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and double the black beans for a vegetarian Mexican casserole with enchilada sauce.
- Tortilla Tip: If using flour tortillas, note that they will yield a softer texture compared to corn tortillas.