Chicken Enchilada Dump Dinner

Flavorful and Effortless Delight: Chicken Enchilada Dump Dinner Extravaganza

Welcome to a culinary adventure that combines ease and taste in one glorious dish – the Chicken Enchilada Dump Dinner! This hassle-free recipe is perfect for busy days when you crave a hearty, flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into the world of savory spices, tender chicken, and a symphony of Mexican-inspired flavors.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, shredded
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Enchilada Sauce:

  • 2 cups red enchilada sauce
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Additional Ingredients:

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup diced green onions
  • 1 cup chopped cilantro
  • 12 small corn or low-carb tortillas

Instructions:

1. Prep the Chicken: a. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. b. Season the chicken breasts with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. c. Cook the chicken until fully cooked, then shred it using two forks.

2. Prepare the Enchilada Sauce: a. In a mixing bowl, combine red enchilada sauce, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. b. Mix well to create a flavorful enchilada sauce.

3. Assemble the Dish: a. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). b. In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce. c. Layer tortillas, shredded chicken, cheese, green onions, and cilantro. d. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top. e. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the layers.

4. Bake to Perfection: a. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. b. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. c. Garnish with extra green onions and cilantro before serving.

Cook Notes and Variations:

Cook Notes:

  • To save time, you can use a rotisserie chicken instead of cooking and shredding the chicken breasts.
  • Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder and cumin according to your taste preferences.

Variations:

  • Add black beans, corn, or diced bell peppers for a veggie-packed version.
  • Experiment with different cheese varieties like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a unique twist.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

  • Replace corn tortillas with almond flour or coconut flour tortillas.
  • Use a sugar-free enchilada sauce.

Low-Carb Version:

  • Opt for low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps.
  • Reduce the amount of enchilada sauce or use a low-carb alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q1: Can I prepare this dish in advance? A1: Absolutely! You can assemble the dump dinner ahead of time and refrigerate it. Bake when ready to enjoy.

Q2: Can I freeze Chicken Enchilada Dump Dinner? A2: Yes, it freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Q3: Can I make it spicier? A3: Certainly! Adjust the spice levels by adding jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra chili powder.

Q4: What sides pair well with this dish? A4: Serve with a side of Mexican rice, guacamole, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Indulge in the rich and robust flavors of our Chicken Enchilada Dump Dinner – a delightful culinary creation that transforms simple ingredients into a feast for the senses. Whether you’re a busy parent, a cooking novice, or a seasoned chef, this recipe is a testament to the fact that a delicious meal doesn’t have to be complicated. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy the magic of this effortless, yet extraordinary, dish. Cheers to the joy of cooking!