Chicken Tortilla Bake is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, refried beans, tomatoes, corn, and cheese, all layered with tortilla strips and baked to perfection. This delicious casserole is a crowd-pleasing meal that is perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.

While there may not be a specific historical origin for Chicken Tortilla Bake, it is inspired by the rich culinary traditions of Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. The combination of tortillas, chicken, beans, and cheese is a classic and beloved flavor combination in Mexican cuisine.

Tortilla-based casseroles, often referred to as “bakes” or “enchiladas,” have been enjoyed in Mexican households for generations. They are a great way to use leftover ingredients and create a satisfying and filling meal. Chicken Tortilla Bake takes inspiration from these traditional Mexican casseroles and adds a delicious twist with the combination of chicken, refried beans, and tomatoes.

This dish has become a popular choice in American households, especially those who enjoy Tex-Mex flavors. The layers of tortilla strips, chicken, beans, corn, and cheese create a hearty and comforting dish that is both flavorful and easy to prepare. It offers a balance of textures and flavors, with the tortilla strips adding a crispy element to the dish.

PREP: 25 MIN.

BAKE: 25 MIN.

MAKES: 6 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon olive oil, divided
• 1 can (16 ounces) refried beans
• 1 can (14½ ounces) diced tomatoes with mild green chilies, drained
• 8 flour tortillas (8 inches), cut into 1-inch strips
• 1 can (11 ounces) Mexicorn, drained
• 2 cups (8 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 11×7-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, saute the chicken cubes with cumin, salt, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink.
3. In a bowl, combine the refried beans and diced tomatoes. Spread 1 cup of the mixture evenly into the greased baking dish.
4. Layer 24 tortilla strips over the bean mixture in the baking dish.
5. Layer half of the Mexicorn, half of the remaining bean mixture, half of the cooked chicken, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the tortilla strips.
6. Repeat the layers with the remaining Mexicorn, bean mixture, chicken, and cheese.
7. Use the remaining tortilla strips to create a lattice crust over the filling. Brush the tortilla strips with the remaining teaspoon of olive oil.
8. Bake the casserole, uncovered, in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Serve the Chicken Tortilla Bake immediately as a delicious and satisfying meal.

NOTE:

• This Chicken Tortilla Bake is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course with a side salad or as part of a larger Mexican-inspired spread. It can be customized by adding additional toppings such as chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, sour cream, or guacamole. The leftovers, if any, can be refrigerated and reheated for later enjoyment.
• The combination of flavors, textures, and layers in this casserole creates a delightful and comforting dish that will surely become a favorite among your family and friends. Enjoy the delicious blend of chicken, beans, corn, and cheese in this easy-to-make and satisfying Chicken Tortilla Bake.