This Chicken Enchiladas recipe is always a fan favorite and super quick to make if preppared ahead of time.
Whenever I get a bag of frozen chicken breasts from Costco, three go straight in the crockpot with green enchilada sauce. Once they are fully cooked and shredded, I separate them into two servings and put them in a freezer bag until I’m ready to make them.
Once shredded in the crockpot, the chicken enchiladas are prepared and ready to go in about 45 minutes. After you try this recipe, please let me know your thoughts. Enjoy your homemade goodies!
🥦 Say Hello to the Side Dish That Deserves a Standing Ovation
Let’s face it—veggies don’t always get the spotlight. But this cheesy baked asparagus recipe? It’s stepping out of the shadows and right into star status. With melty mozzarella, garlicky olive oil, and a golden brown finish that smells like heaven, this side dish is low effort, high reward, and ready in under 30 minutes.
Perfect alongside chicken, beef, pork chops—or honestly, eaten straight from the pan while standing at the kitchen counter (no judgment here).
Ingredients
- Asparagus: 1 lb (trim those woody ends!)
- Olive Oil: 3 tbsp
- Garlic: 1 tbsp finely minced
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black Pepper: ¼ tsp
- Mozzarella: 1 ¼ cups shredded
Option Veggie Add-Ins
- Heirloom Tomatoes: 1 cup sliced
- Mushrooms: 1 cup
- Bell Peppers – 1 cup lightly chopped
🧄 Ingredient Variations & Add-Ons
Want to mix it up a bit? Here are some easy variations:
- Swap cheeses: Try parmesan, gruyère, or pepper jack for more flavor.
- Add veggies: Tomatoes add sweetness, mushrooms bring umami, and bell peppers give it crunch.
- Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce before roasting.
- Make it creamy: Drizzle with ranch or garlic aioli after baking for an indulgent twist.
How to Make It (So Simple, It’s Almost Too Easy)
Step 1: Prep that Pan
Lightly spray a 9×13 baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper for even faster cleanup.
Step 2: Lay the Asparagus
Arrange your asparagus in a single layer. No stacking—everyone deserves their own spotlight!
Step 3: Flavor Boost
In a small bowl, mix 3 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp finely minced garlic, 1 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Drizzle it all over the asparagus and use tongs to coat everything evenly.
📺 YouTube Tip: Search “How to trim asparagus fast” for a hack using a glass or knife roll trick.
Step 4: Roast & Toast
Bake at 425°F for 10–15 minutes. Keep an eye out for that bright green color and just-right tenderness.
Step 5: Cheese Time
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella all over the asparagus and broil for 4–5 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
🛒 Amazon Favorite:
Cheese Grater with Storage Container – Save time and grate straight into a sealed container for meal prep.
Step 6: Serve + Devour
🧊 Storage + Meal Prep Tips
- Refrigerate: Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap or store in freezer bags for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Thaw in the fridge, then bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes until warmed through.
🍗 Pairing Ideas – What to Serve It With
This cheesy asparagus pairs beautifully with:
- Garlic butter chicken thighs
- Grilled steak or pork chops
- Pan-seared salmon
- Creamy mashed potatoes or wild rice
- A fresh spring salad or lemon orzo
Want to go all out? Add it to a brunch spread with soft-boiled eggs, crispy bacon, and croissants. 🥐
🧂 Pro Tip: Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to balance the richness of the cheese.
💬 Final Thoughts
This isn’t just another veggie side. It’s the dish you’ll be asked to bring to every potluck. It’s the reason your kids will say, “More asparagus, please.” It’s the one that makes your weeknight chicken dinner feel fancy.
Whether you dress it up with heirloom tomatoes or keep it simple and cheesy, this Cheesy Baked Asparagus will never let you down.
