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Enchilada Layered Skyscraper

This dish involves assembling a casserole-like stack of tortillas, shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, cheese, and toppings, then baking it until bubbly and golden. The ingredients are layered to create a hearty, moist interior with crispy edges and a gooey cheese topping, resulting in a multi-textured, visually appealing dish.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups shredded cooked chicken preferably roasted or poached
  • 1 bottle enchilada sauce about 2 cups
  • 8 small corn tortillas warm to prevent cracking
  • 2 cups shredded cheese cheddar or Monterey Jack work well
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning

Equipment

  • Baking dish or casserole dish
  • Skillet or pan
  • Cooking spoon

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside.
  2. Warm the corn tortillas briefly in a microwave or on a griddle until flexible, about 15 seconds each. This helps prevent cracking when layering.
  3. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce at the bottom of your baking dish. Place a tortilla over the sauce, then spoon some of the sautéed onion and garlic on top.
  4. Sprinkle shredded chicken evenly over the tortilla, then add a handful of cheese and a drizzle of enchilada sauce. Repeat the layers: tortillas, chicken, cheese, sauce, until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
  5. Cover the assembled dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, or until bubbling and heated through.
  6. Remove foil and bake an additional 5 minutes to allow the cheese to turn golden brown and crispy around the edges. Listen for a bubbly sound and watch for a slight browning.
  7. Carefully take out the dish from the oven, letting it rest for a few minutes to set. Then, slice into squares or serve straight from the dish for a rustic presentation.
  8. Garnish with fresh toppings like chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream if desired. Enjoy the layered, cheesy, and flavorful skyscraper!

Notes

For a spicier kick, add sliced jalapeños in the layers or use a hot enchilada sauce.