Green Chile and Chicken Mock Enchilada Casserole

Introduction

When I first stumbled upon this recipe for Green Chile and Chicken Mock Enchilada Casserole, I was skeptical. Could a dish so simple really deliver the flavors and comfort that my family craved? After the first bite, I knew I had found a winner. The creamy, zesty enchilada sauce blended beautifully with the tender, shredded chicken, creating a harmony of flavors that had my family clamoring for seconds. It quickly became a go-to dish in our household, perfect for busy weeknights and casual gatherings alike. The ease of preparation coupled with the rich taste makes it a standout recipe that I’m excited to share with you.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed and cut in half lengthwise
• 2 (15 oz) cans mild or medium green chile enchilada sauce
• 1 (27 oz) can whole roasted green chiles
• 4 oz cream cheese, room temperature
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 9×13 inch casserole dish with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook chicken: In a large pot, cook the chicken breasts in simmering water until fully cooked (approximately 15 minutes). Drain and shred the chicken with two forks.
3. Thicken enchilada sauce: In a saucepan, simmer the green chile enchilada sauce over medium heat until it reduces and thickens to about 2 cups, which should take around 20 minutes.
4. Combine cream cheese and sour cream: Stir the room temperature cream cheese and sour cream into the thickened enchilada sauce until smooth and creamy.
5. Prepare green chiles: Drain the canned whole roasted green chiles and remove any seeds. This step helps to minimize the heat and ensures a smoother texture in your casserole.
6. Layer casserole: In your prepared casserole dish, layer half of the green chiles on the bottom. Next, add half of the shredded chicken, followed by 1 1/2 cups of the creamy enchilada sauce, and top with 1 cup of the grated mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers once more.
7. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered until it’s bubbling and the cheese is melted and golden brown, about 40 minutes.
8. Let sit and serve: After removing the casserole from the oven, let it sit for 5 minutes before cutting. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: Approximately 380 calories

Preparation Time

• Total time: 1 hour
• Active preparation: 30 minutes
• Cooking time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.
• Add a dollop of guacamole on top for creaminess.
• Serve with tortilla chips on the side for crunch.
• Pair with a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
• Offer additional sour cream for those who love extra creaminess.

Additional Tips

1. Use rotisserie chicken: For even quicker preparation, substitute shredded rotisserie chicken for the boiled chicken.
2. Customize the spice level: Adjust the heat by using spicy green chile enchilada sauce or adding jalapeños to the layers.
3. Add veggies: Incorporate sautéed bell peppers or corn into the layers for extra nutrition.
4. Cheese options: Experiment with different cheeses, like pepper jack for a spicy kick or cheddar for a classic flavor.
5. Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, then bake it the next day.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with black beans or lentils, and increase the amount of vegetables used.
• Mexican-style: Incorporate corn tortillas between layers instead of just chiles for a more traditional feel.
• Creamy version: Add a layer of refried beans mixed with cream cheese for an even creamier texture.
• Low-carb: Substitute zucchini slices for the tortillas or chiles to keep it low-carb while retaining flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with Spanish rice or Mexican quinoa for a complete meal.
• Pair with black bean salad for added fiber and flavor.
• Offer cornbread or jalapeño cornbread as a side for a comforting touch.
• Enjoy with a refreshing margarita or a non-alcoholic limeade for a festive meal.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Assemble it, but do not bake. Wrap tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen chicken?

• Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; just increase the cooking time until fully cooked.

1. Is this casserole spicy?

• The spice level depends on the type of green chile sauce used. Mild sauces will keep it low on the heat.

1. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

• Absolutely! Substitute chicken with beans or lentils and add more vegetables.

1. What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?

• You can use any cheese you prefer, such as cheddar, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack.

1. Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

• Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

1. What can I serve it with?

• It pairs well with rice, salad, or tortilla chips.

1. How long does it take to bake from frozen?

• If baking from frozen, it usually takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

1. What type of chiles should I use?

• You can use canned roasted green chiles for convenience, or fresh roasted chiles if you prefer.

1. How do I know when it’s done?

• It’s done when the cheese is melted, bubbling, and lightly browned.

1. Can I add more layers?
   • Yes, you can certainly add more layers, just ensure you have enough sauce and cheese to cover them.

Conclusion

The Green Chile and Chicken Mock Enchilada Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to comfort food that brings families together. With its straightforward preparation and satisfying flavors, this dish has won over my family time and again. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or serving it at a gathering, you can trust that it will be a crowd-pleaser. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and prepare to enjoy a meal that’s as delicious as it is easy to make!

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