2/12/2009

Easy Mexican Chicken Lasagna


Welcome to the second day of "Mexican" week here at Lulu and Stuff. Spring is in the air, and it makes us want to have a fiesta!

Today, we're making Easy Mexican Chicken Lasagna. Actually, its not a true lasagna dish, since it doesn't require noodles. Even better, you don't need to set aside 1-2 hours for prep and bake time. You can get this chicken dinner recipe on your table in 1/2 hour or less.

Ingredients:
  • 1/4 cup lightly packed fresh cilantro leaves 1 pkg (8 oz) cream cheese
  • 2 cups (8 oz) shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided 1 medium onion (about 2/3 cup chopped)
  • 1 can (28 oz) enchilada sauce 12 (6-in.) corn tortillas
  • 3 cups diced or shredded cooked chicken
Directions:

1. Chop cilantro

2. Place cream cheese in microwave safe bowl. Microwave on HIGH 30-45 seconds or until very soft.

3. Add cilantro and 1 1/2 cups of the Monterey Jack cheese; mix well .

4. Chop onion and set aside.

5. Spread 2/3 cup of the enchilada sauce over bottom of baking dish.

6. Pour remaining enchilada sauce into (4-qt.) mixing bowl and set aside.

7. To assemble lasagna, dip four tortillas into enchilada sauce in mixing bowl and arrange over sauce in baking dish overlapping when necessary.

8. Scoop half of the cream cheese mixture over tortillas and spread. Top with 1 cup of the chicken and one-third of the onion. Repeat layers one time. Dip remaining four tortillas into sauce and arrange over second layer. Top with remaining chicken and onion. Pour remaining enchilada sauce over lasagna and sprinkle with remaining cheese.

9. Microwave, covered, on HIGH 12-15 minutes or until center is hot.

Let stand 10 minutes and then serve.

If you want a vegetarian option, replace the cooked chicken with 1 1/2 cups canned beans (black, pinto or the like)! Experiment a bit and see what tastes best for you.

Kids love Mexican food. This option is so easy that they can help you prepare the dish at home, and you can save $$ without having to go out to a restaurant for a delicious meal.

Be prepared - you may not have any leftovers!