Combining the best of two beloved dishes Chicken Enchilada Lasagna brings a delicious twist to classic comfort food. This recipe layers tender shredded chicken rich enchilada sauce creamy cheese and soft tortillas creating a flavorful meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
We love how this dish captures the bold spices of Mexican cuisine with the hearty satisfaction of Italian lasagna. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite toppings or extra veggies. Whether you’re craving something new or want a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress this Chicken Enchilada Lasagna recipe delivers every time.
Ingredients
To craft our delicious Chicken Enchilada Lasagna, we’ll need a mix of fresh and pantry staples. Each component—from the tender chicken filling to the flavorful enchilada sauce and creamy cheese mixture—plays a crucial role in building the layers of this comforting dish.
For the Chicken Filling
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Enchilada Sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- Salt to taste
For the Cheese Mixture
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 large egg
Additional Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Flour tortillas | 8-10 medium | Soft, flour-based for layering |
| Fresh cilantro | ¼ cup, chopped | For garnish |
| Sliced black olives | ¼ cup | Optional topping |
| Diced green chilies | ½ cup | Optional extra flavor |
This precise lineup ensures the perfect balance of layers, spanning the savory chicken infused with spices, rich enchilada sauce, and ample melted cheese to bind it all.
Equipment Needed
To master the Chicken Enchilada Lasagna Recipe, having the right equipment on hand makes all the difference. Below we detail the essential tools that ensure smooth preparation, accurate cooking, and beautiful presentation.
- Large Skillet or Sauté Pan
For cooking the shredded chicken, sautéing onions, garlic, and blending the spices. A heavy-bottomed skillet ensures even heat distribution.
- Medium Saucepan
To prepare the enchilada sauce from scratch or heat store-bought sauce thoroughly.
- Mixing Bowls
Several medium bowls to combine the cheese mixture, chicken filling, and seasoning—allowing for organized layering.
- 9×13 Inch Baking Dish
This standard size pan is perfect for assembling the layers of tortillas, chicken, sauce, and cheese to create the lasagna structure.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurement of spices, liquids, and cheese ensures flavor balance and recipe success.
- Whisk and Wooden Spoon
Essential for stirring the sauce smoothly and mixing fillings without breaking up the chicken too much.
- Aluminum Foil
Used for covering the baking dish during part of the baking process to prevent the cheese from over-browning.
- Oven Mitts
For handling the hot baking dish safely.
- Sharp Knife and Cutting Board
For chopping onion, garlic, and other optional ingredients precisely.
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Large Skillet | Cook chicken and sauté aromatics | Use non-stick or cast iron |
| Medium Saucepan | Prepare enchilada sauce | Heavy-bottomed preferred |
| Mixing Bowls | Combine cheese and meat mixtures | Multiple recommended |
| 9×13 Inch Baking Dish | Assemble and bake the lasagna layers | Ceramic or glass works best |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement | Stainless steel preferred |
| Whisk & Wooden Spoon | Stir sauce and mix fillings | Prevents clumping |
| Aluminum Foil | Cover dish while baking | Keeps cheese from burning |
| Oven Mitts | Handle hot pans safely | Essential for safety |
| Sharp Knife & Cutting Board | Prep vegetables and other ingredients | Use a stable, clean surface |
Keeping these tools organized allows us to maintain a smooth workflow and create a deliciously layered Chicken Enchilada Lasagna that is both visually appealing and bursting with flavor.
Prep Work
To create our Chicken Enchilada Lasagna with layers of bold flavors and creamy textures, thorough prep work is essential. Let’s break down the steps to ensure each component shines perfectly in the final dish.
Preparing the Chicken
- Cook and shred chicken: Use about 3 cups of cooked shredded chicken. We recommend boiling or baking chicken breasts until fully cooked, then shredding with two forks for tender strands that soak up the enchilada sauce.
- Sauté aromatics: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine chicken and spices: Add shredded chicken to the skillet along with 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, and salt to taste. Stir well to coat and warm through for 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Prep Details |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked shredded chicken | 3 cups | Boiled or baked, shredded |
| Onion | 1 medium | Finely chopped |
| Garlic cloves | 2 | Minced |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon | |
| Chili powder | 1 teaspoon | |
| Smoked paprika | ½ teaspoon | |
| Salt | To taste | |
| Oil (vegetable/olive) | 1 tablespoon | For sautéing |
“Properly seasoned shredded chicken forms the backbone of our Chicken Enchilada Lasagna’s rich, savory flavor.”
Making the Enchilada Sauce
- Prepare ingredients: Measure 2 cups of red enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought).
- Heat sauce: Pour the enchilada sauce into a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Simmer and enhance flavor: Add 1 teaspoon of ground cumin and ½ teaspoon garlic powder. Stir to combine. Let sauce simmer gently for 5 minutes to deepen flavors, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Red enchilada sauce | 2 cups | Homemade or store-bought |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon | Enhances earthy tones |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon | Adds aromatic depth |
“Simmering the sauce with spices lets the bold Mexican flavors shine through in every layer.”
Prepping the Cheese Mixture
- Gather cheeses: We use a blend of 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and 1 cup shredded mozzarella for a rich melt and balanced flavor.
- Mix with binder: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cheeses with 1 cup of ricotta cheese. This keeps the mixture creamy and helps bind the layers together.
- Season cheese: Add ½ teaspoon onion powder and a pinch of salt to the cheese mixture. Stir gently until well combined and smooth.
| Cheese Types | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Sharp cheddar | 2 cups shredded | Flavor and color |
| Monterey Jack | 2 cups shredded | Creaminess and melt |
| Mozzarella | 1 cup shredded | Stretch and gooey texture |
| Ricotta | 1 cup | Creamy binder |
| Onion powder | ½ teaspoon | Subtle savory boost |
| Salt | Pinch | Enhances overall taste |
Directions
Follow these clear steps to assemble and bake our Chicken Enchilada Lasagna into a mouthwatering crowd-pleaser.
Assembling the Chicken Enchilada Lasagna
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready when our lasagna layers are complete.
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Spread a thin layer of the enchilada sauce over the bottom of the dish. This creates a flavorful base that keeps the tortillas moist.
- Place a layer of flour tortillas evenly over the sauce.
- Spoon about one-third of the shredded chicken mixture over the tortillas. Spread it out evenly to cover.
- Add dollops of the cheese mixture on top of the chicken layer, then gently spread.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, and mozzarella cheeses over the top.
- Repeat these layers twice more, ending with a top layer of tortillas covered with the remaining enchilada sauce and shredded cheeses.
- Garnish the top with sliced black olives, diced green chilies, and fresh cilantro for bright, bold flavor and color.
Layering Tip:
“Make sure to spread each layer evenly to help the lasagna cook uniformly and create those distinct flavorful layers.”
Baking Instructions
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and prevent the cheese from browning too quickly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
- Let the lasagna cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the layers to set, making serving easier.
| Temperature | Covered Bake Time | Uncovered Bake Time | Resting Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 375°F | 25 minutes | 15 minutes | 10 minutes |
“Patience here yields a lasagna that slices beautifully, with melded flavors and perfect texture.”
With these steps, our Chicken Enchilada Lasagna will emerge from the oven bursting with rich, cheesy, and spicy layers that delight every bite.
Serving Suggestions
To enhance the experience of our Chicken Enchilada Lasagna, we recommend pairing it with complementary sides and toppings that balance the dish’s rich and bold flavors. Here are some tried-and-true serving suggestions for a memorable meal:
Fresh and Crisp Sides
- Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote Salad): The zesty lime and creamy cotija cheese offer a refreshing contrast to the cheesy lasagna layers.
- Simple Green Salad: Tossed mixed greens with avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, and a light cilantro-lime dressing brighten the palate.
- Black Bean and Corn Salsa: Adds texture and a hint of smokiness to accompany the enchilada flavors.
Flavorful Toppings
Adding toppings elevates both flavor and presentation of the lasagna. Consider these:
| Topping | Flavor Profile | Usage Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Sour Cream | Cool and creamy | Dollop on individual servings |
| Fresh Cilantro | Herbaceous and citrusy | Sprinkle finely chopped leaves on top |
| Sliced Jalapeños | Spicy and crunchy | Add for an extra kick |
| Diced Avocado | Buttery and smooth | Lay on top just before serving |
| Sliced Black Olives | Briny and savory | Scatter on the surface before baking |
“The contrast of cool sour cream and crisp cilantro with warm, cheesy layers adds a delightful dimension to every bite.”
Beverage Pairings
- Classic Margaritas: Their tart lime and tequila complement the enchilada flavors perfectly.
- Mexican Lager or Light Beer: Refreshing and crisp, ideal to balance the richness.
- Hibiscus Iced Tea (Agua de Jamaica): Sweet and tangy, it cleanses the palate.
Presentation Tips
We suggest slicing the Chicken Enchilada Lasagna into generous pieces and serving on warm plates to preserve the gooey texture. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and a small dollop of sour cream. Adding a wedge of lime on the side can also allow guests to customize acidity to their liking.
Use vibrant, colorful platters to showcase the lasagna’s layers and create an inviting table that encourages sharing and enjoyment.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Preparing the Chicken Enchilada Lasagna in advance saves us valuable time when hosting or planning meals. Here’s how to make the most of our time and keep the dish fresh and flavorful.
Make-Ahead Instructions
- Assemble the lasagna fully up to the baking step. Layer the tortillas, chicken filling, enchilada sauce, and cheese mixtures in the baking dish as directed.
- Cover the assembled dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent air exposure.
- Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and let it stand at room temperature for 20 minutes.
- Bake as outlined in the recipe. You may need to increase baking time by 5-10 minutes if baking straight from cold.
Freezing the Lasagna
We can freeze the dish either before or after baking:
| Step | Freezing Time | Thawing Instructions | Baking Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Freeze assembled, raw | Up to 3 months | Thaw overnight in the refrigerator | Bake covered for 40-50 minutes, until hot |
| Freeze cooked leftovers | Up to 2 months | Thaw in the refrigerator overnight | Reheat covered at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes |
Tip: Wrap the dish securely with a layer of plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn and maintain moisture.
Storing Leftovers
After baking, store any leftovers promptly:
- Cool the lasagna to room temperature within 2 hours.
- Transfer to an airtight container or cover the original baking dish tightly.
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed throughout.
Reheating Tips
- For best texture, reheat leftovers covered in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes.
- A quick microwave option works but may soften the tortilla layers.
- Add a sprinkle of cheese on top before reheating for a fresh melted layer.
Conclusion
This Chicken Enchilada Lasagna brings together bold flavors and comforting textures in a way that’s sure to impress. It’s a versatile dish that adapts well to different tastes and occasions, making it a fantastic addition to any recipe collection.
With straightforward preparation and thoughtful layering, it delivers a satisfying meal that’s perfect for sharing. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe offers a delicious fusion that everyone will enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chicken Enchilada Lasagna?
Chicken Enchilada Lasagna is a fusion dish combining shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, cheese, and tortillas, blending Mexican flavors with Italian lasagna style for a comforting, flavorful meal.
What ingredients do I need to make Chicken Enchilada Lasagna?
You need cooked shredded chicken, onion, garlic, spices, enchilada sauce, a mix of cheeses (cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, ricotta), flour tortillas, and optional toppings like cilantro, olives, and green chilies.
What equipment is required to prepare this dish?
Essential tools include a large skillet, medium saucepan, mixing bowls, a 9×13 inch baking dish, measuring cups and spoons, whisk, wooden spoon, aluminum foil, oven mitts, sharp knife, and cutting board.
How do you prepare the chicken for the lasagna?
Cook and shred the chicken, sauté onions and garlic, then season chicken with spices before layering it into the dish.
How long should I bake the Chicken Enchilada Lasagna?
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes covered with foil, then let it cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Can I prepare Chicken Enchilada Lasagna in advance?
Yes, you can assemble it up to the baking step and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. It can also be frozen before or after baking.
What are some good side dishes to serve with this recipe?
Great sides include Mexican Street Corn Salad, Simple Green Salad, and Black Bean and Corn Salsa to balance the rich flavors.
What toppings pair well with Chicken Enchilada Lasagna?
Toppings like sour cream, fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, diced avocado, and sliced black olives enhance flavor and presentation.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently to maintain the dish’s texture and flavor.
What beverages complement Chicken Enchilada Lasagna?
Try classic margaritas, Mexican lager, or hibiscus iced tea for a refreshing drink pairing.