A Capella Chicken Enchilada("Right On Key Even Without Accompaniment")
A Capella Chicken Enchilada is a rich and creamy dish layered with tortillas, chicken, and gooey cheese, bringing a harmonious blend of flavors. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this Mexican-inspired casserole is sure to please a crowd with its comforting taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown onion in skillet with butter.
- Add the soups, broth, and chilies.
- Add the chicken and mix well.
- In a large baking dish (13 x 9-inch), layer some of the corn tortillas, part of the chicken mixture, and a layer of cheese.
- Repeat the layers until the dish is filled, ending with cheese.
- Let the dish stand for several hours before baking.
- Bake in a 350° oven for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken works great as a substitute for the boiled chicken. You can also use flour tortillas instead of corn for a different texture. Letting the dish sit for several hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh green salad. For added flavor, serve with sour cream, guacamole, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. You might also enjoy it with chips and salsa for a complete meal experience. Browse more Mexican recipes for additional sides and desserts.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, checking periodically.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of A Capella Chicken Enchilada("Right On Key Even Without Accompaniment") contains roughly 666 calories, with 5g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Just be sure to cover the dish tightly with foil to prevent drying out. When ready to bake, remove the foil and follow the baking instructions as usual.
What can I use instead of Longhorn cheese?
If Longhorn cheese is not available, you can substitute with a blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese for a similar flavor and texture. Alternatively, queso blanco or pepper jack cheese can add a nice twist to the dish.
Can I freeze the chicken enchiladas?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled but unbaked enchiladas for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, you can cook them straight from the freezer, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).