Easy Meal Prep Canned Chicken Enchilada Casserole For Weekly Dinners
Are you looking for a quick and delicious solution to your weekly dinner dilemmas? This Easy Meal Prep Canned Chicken Enchilada Casserole is just what you need! Packed with flavor and incredibly easy to make, this casserole is perfect for meal prepping. You can whip it up in no time and enjoy it throughout the week. Say goodbye to takeout and hello to a homemade meal that the whole family will love.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 (12.5 oz) cans of chicken, drained and shredded
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 6 flour tortillas
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded canned chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and chili powder. Mix until well combined.
- In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom.
- Next, layer 2 flour tortillas over the sauce, allowing them to overlap slightly.
- Spread half of the chicken mixture evenly over the tortillas.
- Drizzle a portion of the enchilada sauce over the chicken mixture, then sprinkle with 1/3 of the shredded cheese.
- Repeat the layering process with 2 more tortillas, the remaining chicken mixture, more enchilada sauce, and another 1/3 of cheese.
- Top with the last 2 tortillas, the remaining enchilada sauce, and the final 1/3 of cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Why Use Canned Chicken?
Canned chicken is a fantastic ingredient for quick meals. It is already cooked, which saves time on prep and cooking. This makes it a great option for weeknight dinners when you’re short on time.
As a protein-rich food, canned chicken can boost the nutrition of your meals. It is also versatile and can be used in various dishes, from salads to casseroles like this enchilada recipe.
Meal Prep Tips
This casserole is perfect for meal prep. You can make it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for longer storage. To freeze, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil. It can be stored for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven until heated through. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze!
Customize Your Casserole
One of the great things about this casserole is how customizable it is. Feel free to add your favorite veggies, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to the mixture. You can also switch up the cheese or use a spicy enchilada sauce if you prefer a kick.
If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use whole wheat tortillas or low-fat cheese. The beauty of this recipe is that it can easily adapt to your dietary needs while still being delicious.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Easy Meal Prep Canned Chicken Enchilada Casserole with a side of fresh salad or guacamole for a complete meal. You can also offer toppings like sour cream, jalapeños, or more fresh cilantro on the side to let everyone customize their portion.
Leftovers and Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This casserole reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave, making it a great option for lunch the next day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned?
Yes, you can use cooked shredded chicken if you prefer. Just ensure it is cooked thoroughly before adding it to the casserole.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the canned chicken with more beans or lentils and add additional vegetables for a hearty vegetarian version.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, consider using a spicy enchilada sauce or adding diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before serving.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Enjoy your delicious Easy Meal Prep Canned Chicken Enchilada Casserole for weekly dinners and never stress about what to cook again!
