A delightful and flavorful casserole combining tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and gooey cheese, layered between soft tortillas.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a casserole dish.
Using a non-stick spray or a small amount of oil ensures easy cleanup later.
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat, add the chicken, and cook until browned and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Cutting the chicken into smaller pieces before cooking can speed up the process.
In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant and softened.
Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning, which can make it taste bitter.
Add the corn, tomato sauce, cumin, chili powder, allspice, and cilantro to the skillet. Stir well and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed for your preference.
Layer 3 tortillas in the bottom of the greased casserole dish.
Overlap the tortillas slightly to ensure full coverage of the dish.
Spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas, then sprinkle with half of the cheeses.
Distribute the cheese evenly for a consistent flavor in every bite.
Repeat the layering with the remaining tortillas, chicken mixture, and cheeses.
Press down gently on the layers to compact them slightly for easier slicing later.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
For a golden top, switch to broil mode for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Resting allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve neat portions.