**Keywords:** chicken tortilla casserole ingredients, mexican casserole recipe, chicken and tortilla casserole, Mexican-inspired casserole, casserole with chicken and tortillas
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### Chicken Tortilla Casserole Mexican Recipe
Chicken Tortilla Casserole is a deliciously comforting dish that combines the savory flavors of chicken and tortillas with a creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Follow these detailed steps to create an impressive and flavorful casserole.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz refrigerated cornbread mix (or similar)
- 4 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 2 medium-sized red bell peppers, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
#### Equipment:
- Large baking dish (9x13 inches)
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula or spoon
- Aluminum foil
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### Step-by-Step Instructions:
#### 1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures even cooking and a perfect casserole.
#### 2. Prepare the Chicken
Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips. Season with salt, pepper, chili powder, and a dash of garlic powder for extra flavor. Cook the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked and set aside to cool slightly.
#### 3. Mix the Cornbread Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornbread mix with 1 cup of water as per package instructions. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and there are no lumps. This forms the base layer of your casserole.
#### 4. Layering the Ingredients
- **First Layer:** Pour half of the cornbread mixture into the baking dish and spread evenly.
- **Second Layer:** Add a layer of cooked chicken over the cornbread, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
- **Third Layer:** Mix diced bell peppers with black beans and pour this mixture on top. Sprinkle chili powder over for additional flavor.
#### 5. Top with Cheese
Cover the bell pepper and bean layer with half of the shredded cheese. This adds a rich and creamy texture to your casserole.
#### 6. Final Layering and Baking
Pour sour cream evenly over the cheese, followed by the remaining cornbread mixture. Cover the entire dish with grated cheese and any additional toppings you prefer (like diced tomatoes or jalapeños).
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 30 minutes.
#### 7. Remove Foil and Bake Further
After 30 minutes, remove the foil to allow the top to brown and caramelize under the oven’s broiler setting. Keep a close eye on it as the cheese can burn quickly when broiling.
Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
#### 8. Serve Immediately
Once done, let the dish cool slightly before serving to ensure that the layers have time to meld together. Slice into portions and serve with fresh cilantro or hot sauce if desired.
### Tips for a Perfect Chicken Tortilla Casserole:
- Ensure your chicken is well seasoned.
- Pre-baking the cornbread mix helps it cook evenly in the casserole.
- Use a high-quality Mexican blend cheese for the best flavor.
- Adjust seasonings according to taste preferences.
This Chicken Tortilla Casserole will surely be a hit at any gathering, providing a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Enjoy your cooking!