Delightful Mexican Lasagna Recipe
Introduction
Embrace the culinary fusion of classic comfort food with an enticing Mexican twist through this delightful Mexican Lasagna recipe, which is perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties or bringing to a potluck gathering. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its vibrant flavors and textures but also in the convenience of preparation; it can be assembled ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe will provide a satisfying experience for all.
Recipe Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Prep Time | 8 hours (includes refrigeration) |
| Total Time | 9 hours 30 minutes |
| Description | A delightful twist on a classic, perfect for gatherings. Make ahead for convenience. |
| Category | Chicken |
| Servings | 8 |
| Keywords | Poultry, Meat, Mexican, Oven, Beginner Cook, Easy |
Ingredients
To create this savory Mexican Lasagna, gather the following ingredients, which combine to create layers of flavor and texture that will have everyone reaching for seconds:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Diced tomatoes with green chilies | 2 cans |
| Cooked chicken, shredded | 1/4 pound |
| Sour cream | 3/4 cup |
| Colby-Monterey Jack cheese, shredded | 1 cup |
| Green onions, chopped | 1/2 cup |
| Fresh cilantro, chopped | 12 sprigs |
| Lasagna noodles | 12 |
| Olives, sliced | 1/2 cup |
| Additional green onions (for garnish) | 1/2 cup |
| Additional olives (for garnish) | 2 tablespoons |
Nutritional Information
This delicious lasagna is not only a feast for the taste buds but also offers a balanced profile of nutrients:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400.1 |
| Total Fat | 18.1 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 48.7 mg |
| Sodium | 945.7 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 40.6 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.6 g |
| Sugars | 1.6 g |
| Protein | 19.4 g |
Instructions
Follow these detailed instructions to create your Mexican Lasagna, layering each component carefully to build flavor and texture.
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Preparation of Pan and Foil: Begin by spraying a large piece of aluminum foil and a 13×9-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray to ensure that your lasagna does not stick during the cooking process.
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Mixing the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes with green chilies, the shredded chicken, and sour cream. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated. This mixture will be the flavorful base of your lasagna.
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Layering the Lasagna:
- Spread 1 cup of the chicken mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
- Place 4 lasagna noodles on top of the chicken mixture.
- Next, spread half of the olives and beans over the noodles, followed by 1 1/2 cups of the chicken mixture.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded cheese, then add 1/4 cup of chopped green onions and half of the sliced olives.
- Repeat this layering process with the remaining ingredients, ensuring that you finish with a final layer of noodles, chicken mixture, cheese, green onions, and olives.
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Covering the Dish: Once all layers have been assembled, cover the baking pan tightly with the sprayed aluminum foil, ensuring the sprayed side is facing down to avoid sticking to the cheese.
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Refrigeration: Refrigerate the covered lasagna for at least 8 hours, allowing the flavors to develop fully. This step is crucial for enhancing the taste and texture of the dish.
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Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the oven is ready, place the covered lasagna in the oven and bake for 50 minutes. This initial baking phase will help cook the noodles and meld the flavors together.
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Finishing Touches: After 50 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue to bake the lasagna for an additional 18 to 22 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
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Cooling and Garnishing: Once out of the oven, allow the lasagna to sit for 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the layers set for easier serving. Just before serving, sprinkle with fresh cilantro and additional green onions for a vibrant garnish.
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Serving Suggestions: For a delightful finish, serve your Mexican Lasagna with a dollop of sour cream, chopped tomatoes, and shredded lettuce, creating a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
Conclusion
This Mexican Lasagna not only presents a tantalizing combination of flavors and textures but also provides a practical solution for busy home cooks who wish to impress their guests with minimal last-minute effort. The layers of cheesy goodness, succulent chicken, and zesty tomatoes make this a crowd-pleaser that will surely become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re entertaining friends or enjoying a family meal, this dish promises to be a hit at any table. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this delightful recipe from Love With Recipes!
