Name: Chicken Enchilada Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups shredded cooked chicken; 10 corn tortillas; 2 cups red enchilada sauce; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup sour cream; 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles; ¼ cup chopped green onions; 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (optional)

Craving a comforting, cheesy dinner that brings bold flavor with minimal effort? This Chicken Enchilada Casserole might just be your new go-to family favorite. It layers everything you love about enchiladas—tender shredded chicken, rich enchilada sauce, soft tortillas, and loads of melty cheese—into one satisfying baked dish.

Instead of rolling individual enchiladas, this casserole takes a shortcut by stacking the ingredients like a lasagna, making it quicker to prepare and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a weeknight dinner that delivers, this dish offers warmth, ease, and plenty of leftovers to love.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cooking, gather your kitchen tools to make the process seamless:

9×13-inch baking dish: Essential for even cooking and the perfect depth to layer the casserole.
Mixing bowls: You’ll need a couple for mixing shredded chicken with sauce and cheese.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Helpful for spreading layers evenly.
Aluminum foil: Keeps the casserole moist while baking, especially in the first half.
Sharp knife or kitchen shears: Useful for slicing tortillas if needed to fit the pan.
Cheese grater: If you’re shredding your own cheese (which I always recommend for melt quality).

Having everything ready beforehand not only speeds up prep but ensures your casserole layers beautifully and bakes perfectly.

Ingredients for the Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the bold flavor and hearty texture of this dish:

Shredded cooked chicken: The star protein, ideally from a rotisserie chicken or poached breasts for easy shredding.
Corn tortillas: Provide the base structure and a slightly sweet contrast to the savory sauce.
Red enchilada sauce: Brings smoky, tangy flavor that ties the entire casserole together.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully, creating that irresistible golden topping and creamy texture throughout.
Sour cream: Adds a tangy richness and softens the layers.
Diced green chiles: Offer a mild heat and a burst of brightness.
Chopped green onions: Sprinkled on top for a bit of freshness and crunch.
Fresh cilantro (optional): A bright herbal garnish that enhances the dish just before serving.

How To Make the Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a touch of oil.

Step 2: Mix the Chicken Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, half of the enchilada sauce, sour cream, and green chiles. Stir until everything is evenly coated.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

Start with a thin layer of enchilada sauce at the bottom of your baking dish. Add a layer of tortillas (cut to fit if needed), then spoon over some of the chicken mixture and sprinkle with cheddar cheese. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.

Step 5: Garnish and Rest

Remove from oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Top with chopped green onions and cilantro if desired.

How to Serve and Store Chicken Enchilada Casserole

This casserole shines best served hot and fresh from the oven. Each slice holds together beautifully after resting, making it ideal for a plated dinner. You can also pair it with a crisp green salad, guacamole, or a side of seasoned rice to round out the meal.

For storing, let the casserole cool completely before covering it tightly. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual slices for a quick meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make it spicier?

Add chopped jalapeños or use hot enchilada sauce instead of mild. You could also mix in a dash of cayenne pepper with the chicken filling.

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?

Yes, but the texture will be softer and less traditional. Corn tortillas hold their structure better during baking.

What’s the best cheese for this recipe?

Cheddar gives a nice melt and flavor, but you can mix in Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for more creaminess.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it, then bake when ready. It’s a great option for meal prep.

Do I have to use sour cream?

Not necessarily. You can swap it with Greek yogurt or leave it out for a lighter version, though it does help with creaminess.

What sides go well with this dish?

Try cilantro lime rice, refried beans, or even corn salad. The casserole is rich, so fresh or acidic sides make a great contrast.

Want More Casserole Dinner Ideas?

If you enjoyed this Chicken Enchilada Casserole, there are plenty more comforting dinners to try. For another cheesy, layered dish, check out the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe—a spicy spin on classic layers.

Looking for more Tex-Mex flavor? The Mexican White Trash Casserole is packed with creamy, meaty goodness. And don’t miss the ultra-cozy Sloppy Joe Casserole, perfect for busy weeknights.

For pasta lovers, the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta offers a rich, meaty sauce that’s pure comfort food.

Or if you’re after a slow-cooked sensation, the Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti melts together creamy textures with tender chicken in one-pot ease.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your dinner boards for next time. Just click the Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you go spicier? Did you add extra cheese? Leave a comment below or share a pic—I’m always curious how others plate it up.

Want even more dinner inspiration? Come follow me on Pinterest at LadyPlate Recipes where I post new favorites every week!

Chicken Enchilada Casserole

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Chicken Enchilada Casserole is a quick, comforting dinner that layers all the rich, cheesy goodness of traditional enchiladas into one satisfying bake. Perfect for meal prep or feeding a family, this version skips the rolling and brings all the flavor with less fuss.