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Simple Chicken Enchilada Pasta Bake

A delightful fusion of flavors, combining the comforting texture of pasta with the bold, zesty essence of traditional chicken enchiladas. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Main
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: Easy
Servings: 6 servings

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Baking Dish

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 12 ounces Rotini Pasta Corkscrew-shaped pasta that holds sauce well.

Chicken

  • 2 cups Shredded Chicken Cooked and shredded, rotisserie chicken works well.

Sauce

  • 1 can Enchilada Sauce 10-15 ounces, adds flavor and spice.
  • 15 ounces Black Beans Rinse and drain before adding.

Cheese

  • 2 cups Cheddar Cheese Shredded, for layering and topping.

Vegetables

  • 1/2 cup Green Onions Chopped, for flavor and garnish.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil For sautéing onions.
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro Chopped, for garnish.

Spices

  • 1 teaspoon Cumin For flavor enhancement.
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder For flavor enhancement.

Seasoning

  • Salt and Pepper To taste.

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the rotini pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  • While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped green onions and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
  • Add shredded chicken to the skillet and stir for another 2-3 minutes.
  • Pour in the enchilada sauce and add the drained black beans. Stir well and let simmer for 5 minutes.
  • Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet, mixing everything together.
  • Reserve 1 cup of cheddar cheese for topping, and stir half of the remaining cheese into the pasta mixture.
  • Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
  • Sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese on top.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
  • Let cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with cilantro and remaining green onions.
  • Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

For variations, consider adding vegetables, using different cheeses, or making it vegetarian by omitting chicken.