Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion? Look no further than the Costco Enchilada Bake with Rotisserie Chicken. This mouth-watering dish is a crowd-pleaser, and with our step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to create it in no time.
What is the Costco Enchilada Bake?
The Costco Enchilada Bake is a popular dish that originated from the Costco store’s pre-made enchilada bake kit. The kit usually includes tortillas, enchilada sauce, cheese, and other seasonings. However, in this article, we’ll show you how to make a homemade version of the dish using a rotisserie chicken and other readily available ingredients.
Why Use a Rotisserie Chicken?
Using a rotisserie chicken is a great way to add flavor and moisture to your enchilada bake. The chicken is already cooked, so you can simply shred it and add it to the dish. This also saves you time and effort, as you don’t have to cook the chicken from scratch.
Ingredients Needed
To make the Costco Enchilada Bake with Rotisserie Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 can of enchilada sauce (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
- 8-10 corn tortillas
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
- 1/2 cup of chopped onion
- 1/2 cup of chopped bell pepper
- 1 jalapeno pepper, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, avocado, cilantro
Preparing the Ingredients
Before you start assembling the enchilada bake, make sure to prepare the ingredients. Shred the rotisserie chicken and set it aside. Chop the onion, bell pepper, and jalapeno pepper, and mince the garlic.
Assembling the Enchilada Bake
Now it’s time to assemble the enchilada bake. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Tortillas
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take the corn tortillas and wrap them in a damp paper towel. Microwave for 20-30 seconds to make the tortillas more pliable.
Step 2: Assemble the Enchiladas
Take a tortilla and dip it in the enchilada sauce. Make sure to coat both sides of the tortilla evenly. Then, place a spoonful of shredded chicken in the center of the tortilla. Sprinkle some cheese on top of the chicken, and add a few pieces of chopped onion, bell pepper, and jalapeno pepper. Roll up the tortilla and place it seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Step 3: Add the Remaining Filling and Cheese
Once you’ve assembled all the enchiladas, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the sauce, making sure to cover the entire surface.
Step 4: Bake the Enchilada Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to make your Costco Enchilada Bake with Rotisserie Chicken even more delicious:
- Add some heat: If you like spicy food, you can add diced serrano peppers or sliced hot peppers to the filling.
- Use different types of cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Pepper Jack or Queso Fresco, to add more flavor to the dish.
- Add some freshness: Top the enchilada bake with chopped cilantro, scallions, or diced tomatoes to add some freshness and color.
- Make it a one-dish meal: Add some cooked rice, beans, or roasted vegetables to the enchilada bake to make it a one-dish meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Costco Enchilada Bake with Rotisserie Chicken, here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Overfilling the tortillas: Make sure to leave some space between the filling and the edges of the tortilla to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.
- Not covering the dish with foil: Covering the dish with foil helps to trap the heat and moisture, ensuring that the enchiladas are cooked evenly and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Overbaking the enchiladas: Make sure to check the enchiladas regularly to avoid overbaking. The cheese should be melted and bubbly, but not brown or crispy.
Conclusion
The Costco Enchilada Bake with Rotisserie Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With our step-by-step guide, you can create this mouth-watering dish in no time. Remember to use a rotisserie chicken to add flavor and moisture, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of cheese and toppings. Happy cooking!
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
Note: Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
Servings:
- Servings: 6-8
- Serving size: 1 enchilada
Note: You can adjust the serving size and number of servings based on your specific needs and preferences.
What is the best way to shred the rotisserie chicken for the enchilada bake?
To shred the rotisserie chicken, start by letting it cool down for a few minutes. This will make it easier to handle and shred. You can then use two forks to pull the chicken apart into shreds. Be sure to remove any excess fat or bones as you shred the chicken.
Alternatively, you can also use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment to shred the chicken. Simply place the cooled chicken in the mixer bowl and beat it on low speed until it’s shredded to your desired consistency. This method is quick and easy, and it can save you a lot of time and effort.
Can I use leftover chicken instead of a rotisserie chicken?
Yes, you can use leftover chicken instead of a rotisserie chicken. In fact, using leftover chicken is a great way to repurpose leftover roasted chicken or chicken breasts. Simply shred or chop the leftover chicken and use it in place of the rotisserie chicken in the recipe.
Keep in mind that using leftover chicken may affect the flavor and texture of the enchilada bake slightly. Rotisserie chicken has a rich, smoky flavor that’s hard to replicate with leftover chicken. However, if you’re looking for a convenient and delicious way to use up leftover chicken, this recipe is a great option.
How do I prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy in the enchilada bake?
To prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy in the enchilada bake, it’s essential to cook them briefly before assembling the dish. You can do this by wrapping the tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwaving them for 20-30 seconds. This will make them more pliable and less likely to become soggy.
Another tip is to use high-quality tortillas that are designed for enchiladas. These tortillas are typically made with a special type of corn flour that’s more resistant to moisture. You can also try brushing the tortillas with a little bit of oil before assembling the dish to help prevent them from becoming soggy.
Can I customize the enchilada bake with my favorite toppings?
Yes, you can customize the enchilada bake with your favorite toppings. In fact, one of the best things about this recipe is that it’s highly customizable. You can add your favorite toppings, such as diced onions, sour cream, or diced tomatoes, to make the dish your own.
Some other topping ideas you might consider include diced bell peppers, sliced black olives, or shredded cheese. You can also try using different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or queso fresco, to give the dish a unique flavor. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different toppings.
How do I store leftovers of the enchilada bake?
To store leftovers of the enchilada bake, start by letting the dish cool completely to room temperature. This will help prevent bacterial growth and keep the dish fresh for longer. Once the dish has cooled, you can cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 3 days.
You can also freeze the enchilada bake for up to 2 months. To freeze the dish, simply cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to reheat the dish, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven until it’s hot and bubbly.
Can I make the enchilada bake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the enchilada bake ahead of time. In fact, this recipe is perfect for meal prep or making ahead for a busy weeknight dinner. To make the dish ahead of time, simply assemble the enchilada bake up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it.
When you’re ready to bake the dish, simply remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Then, bake it in the oven according to the recipe instructions. You can also freeze the assembled dish for up to 2 months and bake it straight from the freezer.
Is the enchilada bake suitable for a crowd?
Yes, the enchilada bake is perfect for a crowd. In fact, this recipe makes a large 9×13-inch dish that’s perfect for feeding a big group. You can easily double or triple the recipe if you need to feed an even larger crowd.
One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s easy to scale up or down depending on your needs. You can also make individual servings of the enchilada bake in ramekins or small baking dishes, which is perfect for a crowd with different tastes and preferences.