Layered Mexican Casserole with Chicken and Beans
Try this Layered Mexican Casserole Recipe with Chicken, Green Chiles, Pinto Beans, a recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Layered Mexican Casserole Recipe with Chicken, Green Chiles, Pinto Beans, a recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1 t ground cumin
- 1 can (15 oz.) mild green chile enchilada sauce (if you one is la victoria.)
- 2 cans (15. oz) pinto beans
- 1 large onion diced in 1/2 inch pieces
- 1 large green bell pepper diced in 1/2 inch pieces
- 2 tsp. olive oil
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles plus juice (not jalapeno
- 1-3 t green tabasco sauce (optional but nice if you want it a bit hotter; we used two tablespoons.)
- 3/4 cup light sour cream
- 4 cups diced cooked chicken1/2 cup thinly sliced green on
- 2 cups grated low-fat mozzarella
- Carbohydrate 2.42120000124266 g
- Cholesterol 7.35000000621333 mg
- Fat 3.27710000205308 g
- Fiber 0.348500009775162 g
- Protein 1.64630000124266 g
- Saturated Fat 1.87772500148232 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (42g)
- Sodium 15.3206250124177 mg
- Sugar 2.0726999914675 g
- Trans Fat 0.184226250129833 g
- Calories 45 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 375F/190C.
- Put the green chile enchilada sauce in a small saucepan and simmer over low heat until the sauce is slightly thickened and reduced to one cup.
- While sauce simmers, put the two cans of pinto beans into a colander placed in the sink and rinse well with cold water until no more foam appears.
- Let beans drain well (or blot dry with paper towels if you're in a hurry).
- Dice the onion and green bell pepper and slice the green onions.
- Heat the olive oil in a large heavy frying pan, add onion and green bell pepper and saute until they're softened and starting to barely brown, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the ground cumin and drained beans and cook about 3-4 minutes more, or until the beans are hot.
- You can mash the beans slightly at this point if you'd like a layer of beans that sticks together a bit more.
- As soon as the green chile enchilada sauce has reduced to 1 cup (about 10-15 minutes), place it in a bowl to cool and stir in the diced green chiles with juice.
- Taste the mixture to see if you want to add the optional Green Tabasco Sauce.
- When the mixture no longer feels hot (it can be warm), stir in the sour cream, diced chicken, and sliced green onions.
- Spray a 9"x9"x3" casserole dish with olive oil or non-stick spray. (If your dish has lower sides than that, be sure it is slightly bigger).
- Spread half the pinto bean mixture over the bottom of the dish, followed by a layer of half the sauce/chicken mixture.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of grated Mozzarella over the sauce/chicken mixture.
- Repeat with another layer of pinto beans, sauce/chicken mixture, and cheese.
- Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and nicely browned on top.
- Let stand about 10-15 minutes before cutting, then serve.
- This freezes well, or will keep in the fridge in a covered container for several days. (I divided it up into single-serving portions and frozen some and put some in the fridge to eat.)
My Go-To Weeknight Meal: Layered Mexican Casserole
Life as a working mom is a whirlwind. Between school runs, client meetings, and the never-ending laundry pile, finding time for anything beyond basic survival feels like a luxury. Dinner, however, is non-negotiable. It's the one time the family gathers, a moment to connect and recharge before another day begins. That's why I rely on recipes that are both delicious and ridiculously easy to execute. This layered Mexican casserole fits the bill perfectly.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. No complicated techniques, no obscure ingredients. It's all about layering familiar flavors in a way that creates something truly satisfying. I usually prep the components ahead of time – chopping vegetables on the weekend, for instance – making the actual assembly a breeze on a hectic weeknight. This allows me to savor those precious few moments with my family, instead of slaving away in the kitchen. The casserole also reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers. One pan, minimal cleanup – what’s not to love? My kids adore it, and let’s be honest, a happy family is the ultimate reward.
The Flavors of Home: A Culinary Comfort Zone
This recipe is more than just a quick meal; it's a taste of home. The vibrant blend of spices, the creamy texture of the beans and sour cream, the satisfying melt of the mozzarella – each bite is a comforting hug on a plate. It’s incredibly versatile, too. I've experimented with different types of beans (black beans are a great alternative), and added other vegetables depending on what’s in season or what I have on hand. Sometimes I add corn, or diced tomatoes for extra brightness. The possibilities are endless!
A Culinary Journey: Adapting and Experimenting
Over time, this recipe has become more than just a convenient weeknight meal; it's a testament to my own culinary journey. I’ve learned to adapt it based on my family's preferences and whatever ingredients are readily available. It's a living recipe, constantly evolving and reflecting the changing rhythm of our lives. From using leftover rotisserie chicken to tweaking the spice levels to suit my children's palates, this casserole has become a true reflection of our family’s dynamic and ever-evolving tastes.
More Than Just a Meal: It's a Family Tradition
More than anything, this recipe represents a tradition. It's a dish that brings my family together, creating memories around the dinner table. The aroma of the baking casserole fills our home, a warm invitation to gather, share stories, and simply enjoy each other’s company. It's simple, it's delicious, and it's a testament to the power of a home-cooked meal in a busy, modern life. It’s a testament to the simple joys of life: family, good food, and the shared experience of creating something special together.
Beyond the Recipe: Embracing Imperfection
One final thought: don't be afraid to experiment! Cooking shouldn't be a rigid science. Embrace the imperfections, the little tweaks and adjustments that make a recipe your own. This casserole is a blank canvas, waiting for your personal touch. So go ahead, get creative, and make it your own masterpiece. After all, the most memorable meals are often the ones that are born out of spontaneity and a touch of culinary improvisation.
