Today I'm sharing my Healthy Chicken Enchilada Casserole. It's so easy to make and it re-heats so well! Perfect for families and to throw in a thermos for the lunches on the go.
My nana (grandma) would make this growing up and it was a family favorite. Perfect for big family gatherings, holidays and parties. I'll share her recipe one day but today I'm sharing the low calorie version of it. A little bit healthier too.
This recipe is already quick and easy but if you want to make it THAT much quicker and easier swap out some of the ingredients for pre-made items. For example, microwaveable rice and pre-made shredded chicken. I like the one from Target in the refrigerated section. It's this one, not the rotisserie one. All the other ingredients are canned so it's perfect. All you'll have to do is mix everything together and throw it in a baking dish.
Nope, it's completely up to you. You can choose between Jasmine, Brown rice or quinoa. I would stray away from cauliflower rice since a serving of it is only 230 calories but feel free to add some for a little more volume.
Note: This recipe's macros and calories are calculated with Jasmine rice so if you decide to switch it up, be sure to calculate correctly if you need to!
Whatever you like! Personally, I like to top it with some avocado, red onion, cilantro and some sour cream or yogurt. You can even top it with some extra cheese if you like it cheesy. Sometimes I just do some pice de gallo as well. Some other options would be olives or green onions.
It would even be great with some of my Pickled Jalapeños.
Another way you can add volume to this meal is none other than, a bell pepper. Cut your bell pepper in half, clean out the inside and pop it in the air fryer or over for a few minutes. This will depend on how soft or crunchy you like yours. I add it in for a few because I like mine crunchy but make it your own. Next, add the enchilada casserole on each side! Of the casserole is amazing in itself but this is if you want to add some extra volume to your meal without sacrificing a ton of calories.
Big bell pepper fan like I am? You need to try my Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers!
Pre-heat your oven to 375 degrees and grease an 8x8 baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine all of your ingredients with half of your shredded cheese and mix well. You're going to save the other half for later.
Add your mixture to your baking dish and top with the remaining shredded cheese.
Bake in the oven for 15 minutes.
Garnish with your favorite toppings and enjoy! Store the rest in the fridge and re-heat for some yummy leftovers.
Servings 6
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.