This Pastel Azteca, with its layers of soft tortillas, seasoned chicken, and melty cheese, is the epitome of comfort food. The savory combination of the chicken and creamy sauce pairs perfectly with the warm tortillas, making each bite irresistible.
The dish is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings or additions. Whether you’re looking for a hearty family dinner or a dish for a potluck, this casserole is sure to please. The mix of textures from the tortillas and chicken, combined with the richness of the sauce, creates a memorable meal that everyone will love.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (4 oz) green chilies, diced
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion for 3 minutes, until softened. Add the shredded chicken, diced tomatoes, and green chilies. Stir to combine, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a separate bowl, combine sour cream and chicken broth to create a creamy sauce.
- Layer 4 tortillas at the bottom of a baking dish, followed by 1/3 of the chicken mixture, and 1/3 of the creamy sauce. Repeat this process twice, ending with a layer of tortillas on top.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the final layer and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
A Flavorful Mexican Comfort Dish
Pastel Azteca, often referred to as “Mexican lasagna” or “tortilla casserole,” is a savory layered dish that combines the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine into a satisfying and comforting meal. It features soft corn tortillas layered with a mixture of shredded chicken, tangy tomatoes, zesty green chilies, and creamy sour cream. Topped off with melted cheese, it’s baked to perfection, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
A Brief History of Pastel Azteca
Pastel Azteca is a beloved dish in Mexican cuisine, and it carries the deep flavors and traditions of its heritage. The concept of layering ingredients to create a casserole-like dish has been a staple in many cultures, but Mexico has put its own twist on it with the use of corn tortillas, chicken, and cheese. The layers are typically filled with ingredients that provide bold flavors like spicy chilies, tangy tomatoes, and fresh herbs, all wrapped in soft, warm tortillas.
Historically, Mexico’s cuisine has always been characterized by a balance of bold flavors, hearty ingredients, and fresh herbs, and Pastel Azteca brings this tradition to life. It’s a comforting, filling dish that is perfect for gatherings, family meals, and celebrations.
Why Pastel Azteca Is the Best Comfort Food
When it comes to comfort food, there’s nothing better than a warm, cheesy casserole that can be shared with loved ones. Pastel Azteca stands out for its combination of flavors and textures, making it a unique dish that appeals to all kinds of tastes. Here are some reasons why this dish is the best choice for your next meal:
1. Easy to Make
Unlike many traditional Mexican recipes that require complicated steps and special ingredients, Pastel Azteca is simple to prepare and doesn’t require advanced cooking skills. With just a few basic ingredients and simple steps, you can create a delicious and filling meal that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this recipe is easy to follow, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or when you’re hosting guests.
2. Customizable to Your Taste
One of the best things about Pastel Azteca is how versatile it is. You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs. For instance, if you prefer beef or pork over chicken, you can make substitutions without sacrificing flavor. You can also modify the spice levels by adjusting the amount of chilies or adding your favorite toppings like avocado, salsa, or cilantro. Whether you prefer a mild dish or something with a kick, Pastel Azteca can be customized to cater to all tastes.
3. Packed with Flavor
The combination of ingredients in Pastel Azteca creates a perfect harmony of flavors. The corn tortillas give the dish a delicious base, while the chicken provides a savory protein. The tomatoes and green chilies add a touch of acidity and spice, which perfectly balances the richness of the sour cream and melted cheese. Every bite delivers a mouthful of flavor, making this dish an instant crowd-pleaser.
4. Comforting and Filling
There’s nothing like a warm, cheesy casserole to fill you up after a long day. Pastel Azteca is both satisfying and comforting, thanks to its hearty layers. It’s the perfect dish to serve after a busy workday or to bring to a potluck where you need to feed a large group. The combination of tortillas, chicken, and cheese makes it incredibly filling, so you won’t need a second serving to feel full. Plus, the dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for later, which makes it great for meal prepping or easy leftovers.
5. Nutrient-Rich Ingredients
Though Pastel Azteca is indulgent, it also contains plenty of nutritious ingredients. Chicken provides lean protein that helps to build muscle and maintain a healthy body. Tomatoes are a great source of antioxidants like lycopene, which supports heart health, while green chilies are rich in vitamins A and C, both of which help boost the immune system. The sour cream adds a rich texture, while cheese offers calcium and protein, supporting strong bones. While this dish is indulgent, it’s also packed with important nutrients that contribute to a balanced diet.
How to Make Pastel Azteca a Family Favorite
One of the great things about Pastel Azteca is that it’s a crowd-pleaser. It can be served as a main dish or as a side to complement other Mexican-inspired meals. When making this dish for your family, here are a few tips to ensure it’s a hit:
1. Incorporate Fresh Veggies
To add more nutritional value to your dish, try adding extra vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. These ingredients blend well with the flavors of the casserole and boost the fiber and vitamin content.
2. Use Leftover Chicken
Pastel Azteca is an excellent way to use up leftover chicken from a previous meal. If you have rotisserie chicken or roasted chicken on hand, simply shred it and incorporate it into the casserole for a quick and easy dinner. This will save you time and make the recipe even more convenient.
3. Make It Ahead of Time
If you’re planning a busy week or have a special event coming up, make Pastel Azteca the night before. Prepare the casserole as directed, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it overnight. The next day, simply bake it when you’re ready to serve. This makes it the perfect make-ahead meal that’s ready when you are.
Why It’s Perfect for Special Occasions
Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, preparing for a potluck, or celebrating a holiday, Pastel Azteca is a great choice. The dish is not only comforting and filling, but it also has an impressive presentation that will wow your guests. The golden-brown cheese on top and the vibrant layers of chicken, tortillas, and sauce make it an eye-catching dish that’s sure to steal the show. Plus, it’s easy to serve in large portions, so it’s ideal for gatherings with lots of people.
Final Thoughts
Pastel Azteca is a versatile and delicious dish that brings the flavors of Mexico to your dinner table. Whether you enjoy it as a weeknight meal or a special dish for a celebration, it’s a recipe that everyone will love. With its combination of tender tortillas, savory chicken, zesty tomatoes, and gooey cheese, Pastel Azteca is a comforting dish that provides the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Give it a try, and you’ll see why this dish is destined to become a family favorite in your home.
Conclusion
Pastel Azteca is a truly versatile and flavorful dish that embodies the essence of comfort food with a Mexican twist. Its layers of tender tortillas, savory chicken, zesty tomatoes, and melted cheese create a deliciously satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even potlucks. Easy to prepare and highly customizable, it can be adapted to suit any taste or dietary preference. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, Pastel Azteca is a dish that promises to please everyone at the table. Give it a try and experience the unbeatable combination of comfort and flavor that makes this Mexican casserole a family favorite.