Best Chicken Enchilada Lasagna Recipe

Introduction

Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that combines the best of two worlds? Imagine the rich, comforting layers of lasagna paired with the bold, zesty flavors of chicken enchiladas. This Chicken Enchilada Lasagna is exactly that—a fusion of Mexican and Italian cuisines, bringing together the heartiness of lasagna with the vibrant taste of enchiladas.

This dish is not only perfect for weeknight dinners but also a great option for family gatherings or meal prep. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be customized to suit your family’s tastes. Plus, it freezes wonderfully, making it a go-to recipe for busy schedules.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to create the perfect Chicken Enchilada Lasagna, from selecting the best ingredients to mastering the layering process. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

So, let’s get started and bring this mouth-watering dish to your table!

What is Chicken Enchilada Lasagna?

A Fusion of Flavors

Chicken Enchilada Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food that marries the best of two beloved dishes—traditional Mexican enchiladas and Italian lasagna. Why choose between enchiladas and lasagna when you can have both in one delicious dish? This recipe layers soft tortillas with succulent chicken, gooey cheese, and a flavorful enchilada sauce, all baked to perfection in a casserole dish.

The Best of Both Worlds

Mexican Inspiration: The enchilada sauce, tortillas, and spices bring the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine to the forefront.
Italian Comfort: The layering technique, similar to lasagna, and the generous use of cheese create a comforting, hearty dish that feels like a warm hug.

This dish is perfect for those nights when you can’t decide between Mexican and Italian or when you want to impress guests with something unique yet familiar.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with Chicken Enchilada Lasagna. Here are a few that stand out:

1. Easy to Prepare with Minimal Ingredients

You don’t need a long list of ingredients to create this dish. Most of the components are pantry staples, and the recipe is flexible enough to accommodate what you have on hand.

2. Customizable with Your Favorite Fillings

Whether you prefer shredded chicken, ground beef, or even a vegetarian version, this recipe is easily adaptable. You can add extra veggies, change up the cheese, or spice it up with jalapeños.

3. Perfect for Meal Prep and Freezes Well

This dish is a lifesaver for busy weeks. It’s easy to double the recipe and freeze one for later. Simply pop it in the oven whenever you need a quick and satisfying meal.

4. A Crowd-Pleaser for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck, or a casual get-together, Chicken Enchilada Lasagna is sure to be a hit. Its rich flavors and comforting layers make it appealing to almost everyone.

5. Healthier Options Available

For those watching their diet, you can easily make this dish lighter by using whole wheat tortillas, low-fat cheese, or substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients you’ll need to make Chicken Enchilada Lasagna. Feel free to get creative and customize it to your liking!

Chicken

Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavor of grilled chicken adds depth to the dish. If you’re pressed for time, consider grilling the chicken over the weekend and using it throughout the week.
Rotisserie Chicken: For convenience, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and adds a rich, roasted flavor.
Shredded Chicken: If you prefer a softer texture, simply cook chicken breasts in a slow cooker with some broth and shred them once they’re done.

Tortillas

Corn Tortillas: These add a bit of texture and are a great option if you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative.
Flour Tortillas: Softer and more pliable, flour tortillas create a smooth, even layer in the lasagna.
Gluten-Free Options: For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free tortillas work just as well without compromising on flavor.

Cheese

Monterey Jack: Melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture.
Colby Jack: A mild, versatile cheese that pairs well with Mexican flavors.
Pepper Jack: If you want a little kick, pepper jack adds some heat to the dish.
Dairy-Free Alternatives: If you’re dairy-free, there are several good-quality vegan cheeses that melt well and taste great.

Enchilada Sauce

Store-Bought: For convenience, you can use your favorite brand of red or green enchilada sauce.
Homemade: Making your own sauce allows you to control the spice level and customize the flavor. We’ve included a simple recipe below.

How to Make Chicken Enchilada Lasagna

Creating this dish is straightforward and fun. Here’s how to do it step by step:

Step 1 – Prepare the Chicken

1: Grilled Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Season chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Grill for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Let it rest for a few minutes, then slice or shred the chicken.

2: Shredded Chicken

Place chicken breasts in a slow cooker with 1 cup of chicken broth.
Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Shred the chicken using two forks.

3: Rotisserie Chicken

Purchase a rotisserie chicken from your local grocery store.
Remove the skin and shred the meat using your hands or forks.

Step 2 – Make the Enchilada Sauce (Optional)

If you have the time, homemade enchilada sauce can take your dish to the next level. Here’s a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup tomato sauce
Salt to taste

Instructions:

Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
Add the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns golden brown.
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and tomato sauce.
Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, until thickened.
Season with salt to taste.

Step 3 – Assemble the Lasagna

Now comes the fun part—assembling the lasagna!

Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Layer the Ingredients:
- First Layer: Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Second Layer: Lay down a layer of tortillas, cutting them to fit if necessary.
- Third Layer: Add a layer of shredded chicken, then sprinkle with cheese.
- Fourth Layer: Pour some enchilada sauce over the chicken and cheese.
- Repeat: Continue layering until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of tortillas and sauce.
Final Touch: Top with a generous amount of cheese.

Step 4 – Bake to Perfection

Cover with Foil: Lightly cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly.
Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.
Uncover and Continue Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 5 – Serve and Enjoy

Let the lasagna cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve.

Serving Suggestions:

Toppings: Garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, sour cream, and diced tomatoes.
Sides: Serve with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple green salad.

Tips for the Best Chicken Enchilada Lasagna

1 – Use Fresh Ingredients

Freshness Matters: The fresher your ingredients, the better your lasagna will taste. Use fresh herbs like cilantro and high-quality cheese for the best results.

2 – Customize Your Fillings

Make It Your Own: This recipe is incredibly versatile. Additions like black beans, corn, sautéed onions, and bell peppers can enhance the flavor and nutritional value.

3 – Make It Spicy

Add Some Heat: If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or using a spicier enchilada sauce.

4 – Don’t Overcook the Tortillas

Prevent Soggy Layers: To prevent the tortillas from becoming too soggy, avoid overcooking the lasagna. Stick to the recommended baking times and allow the dish to cool slightly before serving.

5 – Let It Rest

Set the Layers: After baking, let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes. This helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve without it falling apart.

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Enchilada Lasagna

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration:

Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, cover the lasagna with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.

Freezing Instructions

Freezing the Lasagna:

Before Baking: Assemble the lasagna as directed, but don’t bake it. Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap, then cover with foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
After Baking: If freezing leftovers, let the lasagna cool completely, then wrap and freeze. It’s best to slice it into individual portions before freezing for easy reheating.

Reheating from Frozen:

Bake from Frozen: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Remove the plastic wrap and re-cover with foil. Bake for 50-60 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.

Chicken Enchilada Lasagna FAQs

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can assemble the lasagna a day ahead, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What Can I Substitute for Chicken?

Alternatives:

Ground Beef or Turkey: Cooked and seasoned ground beef or turkey makes a great alternative to chicken.
Vegetarian Options: Swap the meat for black beans, sautéed mushrooms, or a mix of roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version.

Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes, it can be! Simply use gluten-free tortillas and ensure your enchilada sauce is gluten-free.

How Do I Make This Dish Spicier?

Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or use a spicy enchilada sauce to increase the heat.

Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match cheeses according to your taste. Pepper Jack, Monterey Jack, Cheddar, and Colby Jack are all great choices.

Final Thoughts on Chicken Enchilada Lasagna

Chicken Enchilada Lasagna is a delightful dish that brings together the best of Mexican and Italian cuisines. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, preparing for a special occasion, or looking to meal prep for the week, this recipe is a versatile and satisfying choice.

The combination of tender chicken, rich enchilada sauce, and melty cheese, all layered between soft tortillas, creates a meal that’s both comforting and exciting. Plus, the ability to customize and adapt the recipe to your preferences makes it even more appealing.

Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your creations with us! Use the hashtag #ChickenEnchiladaLasagna on social media so we can see your delicious results.

Best Chicken Enchilada Lasagna Recipe – Easy, Cheesy, and Delicious