Ingredients
3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 9-12 corn tortillas
– 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz.) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (10 oz.) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
– Sliced avocado (optional, for garnish)
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Heat a sauté pan over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until translucent, then add the spinach and cook until just wilted. Remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, mix the sautéed vegetables, chicken, black beans, diced tomatoes with their juices, sour cream, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Layer the bottom of the prepared baking dish with a spread of the chicken mixture. Cover with a layer of corn tortillas, followed by a sprinkle of the shredded cheese. Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a cheese layer on top.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Let the casserole stand for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro and optional avocado slices.
Variations & Tips
– For a vegetarian twist, omit the chicken and double the beans, or substitute with quinoa for a protein-packed alternative.
– Those seeking a lower carb option can replace corn tortillas with thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant for a veggie-rich experience.
– For a creamier consistency, consider blending the sour cream with a block of softened cream cheese before adding it to the mix.
– Spice enthusiasts might incorporate a diced jalapeño into the vegetable sauté or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
– To make the dish even more decadent, a layer of refried beans may be spread onto the tortillas before adding the chicken mixture.
– Keep in mind, this casserole freezes beautifully. Simply cool it down completely, wrap it securely, and freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.