Chicken Enchilada Dump Dinner Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

This comforting casserole combines the rich flavors of enchiladas with tender chicken, black beans, and melted cheese. Its the perfect weeknight dinner, ready in about 25 minutes!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 (10-ounce) can red enchilada sauce
• 2 1/2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained
• 1/2 cup fresh, frozen, or canned corn kernels
• 1/2 cup salsa
• 6 corn tortillas, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
• 2 tablespoons sliced black olives

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375F (190C).

Step 2: In a large bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with the enchilada sauce until smooth.

Step 3: Stir in the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, tortilla pieces, and 1/2 cup of the shredded Cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Pour the mixture into a deep, oven-safe cast iron skillet or a greased casserole dish.

Step 5: Top the casserole with the remaining shredded Cheddar cheese and sliced black olives.

Step 6: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until it is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve immediately and enjoy your cheesy, flavorful dish!

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 serving (out of 5)

• Calories: 627
• Total Fat: 38g (49% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 18g (92% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 143mg (48% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 1271mg (55% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 38g (14% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 9g (32% Daily Value)
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 35g (70% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 4mg (5% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 362mg (28% Daily Value)
• Iron: 4mg (21% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 700mg (15% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

This quick and easy Chicken Enchilada Dump Dinner is perfect for those days when you want to enjoy the flavors of chicken enchiladas without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. The dish combines the richness of creamy cheese, the smoky flavor of enchilada sauce, and the texture of tender chicken, beans, and corn, all baked together into a delicious casserole. It's a one-pan wonder that is sure to become a family favorite!

Origin of the Dish

The Chicken Enchilada Dump Dinner is a modern take on traditional Mexican enchiladas, offering a simplified version of the dish while retaining the core flavors. Enchiladas have been a staple in Mexican cuisine for centuries, with origins that trace back to Aztec times. The word enchilada comes from the Spanish verb enchilar, meaning to season with chili. Traditionally, enchiladas are made by rolling tortillas filled with a variety of fillings, including meats, cheese, and beans, and then baking them with a rich chili sauce. This dump version, however, is a convenient and faster alternative, where all the ingredients are simply combined and baked in a casserole dish, saving time without sacrificing flavor.

Regional Variations

Enchiladas are widely enjoyed throughout Mexico, with regional variations depending on the local ingredients and cooking methods. In the north of Mexico, enchiladas tend to be filled with beef or chicken, while in the south, particularly in Oaxaca, they may be filled with mole or tinga. The Chicken Enchilada Dump Dinner recipe can be modified to suit regional tastes by incorporating different types of salsa, beans, or even cheese. For instance, using a green chile enchilada sauce instead of red can give the dish a different flavor profile that is popular in southwestern regions of the U.S. Additionally, some variations might include adding avocado, cilantro, or lime for a fresh touch.

Differences from Traditional Enchiladas

Unlike traditional enchiladas, which involve rolling tortillas and baking them individually, the Chicken Enchilada Dump Dinner simplifies the process by "dumping" all the ingredients into one casserole dish. This method eliminates the need for rolling tortillas and reduces prep time significantly. The texture of the dish also differs slightly, as the tortillas soak up the sauce and become soft throughout, rather than keeping their rolled shape. While the flavor remains similar, the convenience and speed of the "dump" method make it an appealing choice for busy weeknights.

Where Its Typically Served

This dish is often served as a hearty family dinner, especially in households looking for a quick and satisfying meal. Its perfect for busy evenings when you need a crowd-pleasing meal with minimal effort. You can also serve it at casual gatherings or potlucks, where the easy-to-serve nature of the casserole makes it an ideal choice. Typically, its accompanied by sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple green salad. For an extra touch, you can garnish it with fresh toppings like diced avocado, sour cream, or cilantro.

Interesting Facts

• Did you know that enchiladas have been around since pre-Columbian times? The Aztecs were known to prepare corn tortillas with chili sauce long before the Spanish arrived in the Americas.
• The dump style casserole was popularized in the U.S. as a way to reduce cooking time and clean-up. It's a favorite among busy families who still want to enjoy delicious meals without all the fuss.
• The dish is versatile; you can swap out ingredients based on your preferences. For example, you can use ground turkey instead of chicken or add different types of cheese for a richer flavor.
• In many Mexican households, tortillas are a staple food. It's common to use tortillas in all sorts of ways, not just for making enchiladas, but for tacos, quesadillas, and even soups!

With its combination of hearty ingredients and bold flavors, the Chicken Enchilada Dump Dinner has quickly become a popular alternative to the classic enchilada. It's not only a time-saver but also a delicious meal that brings the authentic tastes of Mexican cuisine to your dinner table.

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