The Coziest Chicken Enchilada Casserole Recipe for Family Night

Comfort food reaches new heights with this mouthwatering chicken enchilada casserole that promises to delight every taste bud.

Layers of tender chicken, melted cheese, and zesty sauce create a culinary masterpiece you’ll crave again and again.

Packed with bold Mexican-inspired flavors, this casserole brings warmth and excitement to your dinner table.

Each bite combines creamy textures with spicy undertones that dance across your palate.

The recipe transforms simple ingredients into a spectacular meal that satisfies hunger and sparks joy.

With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dish becomes an instant family favorite.

FAQs

• Is this recipe spicy?

The heat level depends on the enchilada sauce and green chiles you choose. Use mild sauce and chiles for less spice, or select hot varieties for more kick.

• Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Shredded beef, turkey, or even pulled pork work great as chicken substitutes in this casserole.

• What if I don't have fresh cilantro?

No problem. You can skip it or use dried cilantro, though fresh provides the best flavor and garnish appearance.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not automatically. Use corn tortillas and check that your enchilada sauce is gluten-free to make the entire dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.

Easy Layers in Chicken Enchilada Casserole

• Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients to match your family's taste preferences, making this casserole a flexible meal that adapts to everyone's cravings.
• Quick Weeknight Winner: Prepare this delicious dish with minimal prep work, perfect for busy families needing a satisfying meal in less than an hour.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Layers of melted cheese, tender chicken, and zesty sauce create a crowd-favorite recipe that brings everyone together around the dinner table.
• One-Dish Wonder: Simplify your cooking and cleanup with this all-in-one casserole that combines protein, tortillas, and amazing flavors in a single baking dish.

Ingredients for Chicken Enchilada Casserole

• Chicken: A protein-rich base that provides the primary flavor and substance of the casserole.
• Tortillas: Soft corn or flour tortillas that create layers and structure for the casserole.
• Enchilada Sauce: A zesty, red sauce that adds moisture and traditional Mexican flavor to the dish.
• Cheese: A melty, creamy ingredient that binds the casserole together and adds richness.

• Onions, Green Chiles: Vegetables that contribute depth, slight heat, and a savory base to the casserole.
• Cilantro: A fresh herb that provides a bright, citrusy garnish and authentic Mexican touch.

• Sour Cream, Avocado, Lime: Condiments that add creaminess, freshness, and a tangy contrast to the warm casserole.

• Olive Oil: A cooking fat used to sauté onions and prevent sticking.
• Foil: Used to cover the casserole during initial baking and control moisture.

Stepwise Guide to Enchilada Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 375°F, getting it ready for a delicious Mexican-inspired feast.

Step 2: Sizzle The Onions

Pour olive oil into a skillet and dance those onions around until they become soft and translucent, releasing their sweet aroma.

Step 3: Create Tasty Layers

• Soft tortillas
• Shredded chicken
• Zesty enchilada sauce
• Sautéed onions
• Chopped green chiles
• Melty cheese

Layer these ingredients like a culinary artist, repeating until your dish is wonderfully packed.

Step 4: First Baking Round

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and slide it into the oven.

Let it bake for 25-30 minutes until everything is bubbling with excitement.

Step 5: Cheese Finale

Pull out the casserole, remove the foil, and sprinkle an extra handful of cheese on top.

Return to the oven uncovered and bake for another 10 minutes until golden and irresistible.

Step 6: Serve And Enjoy

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh cilantro.

Serve with optional toppings like tangy sour cream, creamy avocado, or a squeeze of lime for extra zing.

Tips for Saucy Enchilada Casserole Results

• Shred chicken in advance and store in the refrigerator to save time during meal preparation.
• Adjust green chiles and enchilada sauce to match your family's heat preference, using mild or hot varieties.
• Experiment with different cheese blends like monterey jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese mix for unique flavor profiles.
• Swap corn tortillas for low-carb alternatives like cauliflower tortillas or use gluten-free options for sensitive diets.
• Assemble the casserole completely, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking for convenient meal planning.

Flavorful Twists on Chicken Enchilada Casserole

• Vegetarian Enchilada Casserole: Replace chicken with black beans, roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and corn for a protein-packed meatless version.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas and ensure enchilada sauce is gluten-free for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Spicy Southwest Remix: Add jalapeños, chipotle peppers, and swap regular cheese for pepper jack to create a fiery, bold flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute tortillas with thin layers of roasted cauliflower or zucchini slices to reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining the classic enchilada taste.

Serving Chicken Enchilada Casserole Hot

• Fiesta Night Perfection: Serve this chicken enchilada casserole as the star of your dinner table with these mouthwatering suggestions.
• Fresh Flavor Boost: Top with diced fresh tomatoes, chopped green onions, and a sprinkle of extra cilantro for a bright, zesty finish.
• Creamy Comfort Combo: Add a dollop of cool sour cream and sliced avocado to balance the warm, spicy casserole and create a creamy texture contrast.
• Mexican-Inspired Side Show: Pair with Mexican rice, black beans, or a crisp side salad with lime vinaigrette to complete the delicious meal and add extra nutrients.

Storing Chicken Enchilada Casserole Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Wrap casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Label container with date and contents.
• Place individual portion on microwave-safe plate. Cover with damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Cover casserole with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove foil last 5 minutes for crispy top.

Chicken Enchilada Casserole Recipe

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4.5 from 27 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Creamy chicken enchilada casserole brings Mexican comfort straight to dinner tables with layers of melted cheese, tender chicken, and zesty sauce. Hearty ingredients combine effortlessly, creating a crowd-pleasing meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 3 cups shredded cooked chicken

Cheese and Dairy:

• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, monterey jack, or mexican blend)
• 1 cup sour cream

Sauce and Seasonings:

• 2 cups enchilada sauce
• 1 can (4 ounces/113 grams) diced green chiles
• 1 medium diced onion
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Base:

• 12 corn tortillas

Garnish:

• Chopped cilantro

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven at 375°F and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté diced onions in olive oil until translucent and fragrant, developing a rich, sweet flavor.
3. Create the first layer of the casserole by arranging tortillas as a base, covering the bottom of the dish completely.
4. Distribute shredded chicken evenly over the tortilla layer, ensuring consistent coverage.
5. Pour enchilada sauce generously, allowing it to seep between the layers and enhance overall moisture.
6. Sprinkle sautéed onions and chopped green chiles across the surface for added texture and complexity.
7. Add a substantial layer of shredded cheese, creating a melty, golden blanket over the ingredients.
8. Repeat the layering process: tortillas, chicken, sauce, onions, chiles, and cheese until the dish is full.
9. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil to trap steam and ensure even cooking.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the casserole is bubbling and heated through.
11. Remove foil and add an additional cheese layer for extra golden, crispy topping.
12. Return to oven uncovered for 10 minutes, allowing cheese to melt and become slightly crisp.
13. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes to set and cool slightly.
14. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with optional toppings like sour cream, diced avocado, or lime wedges.

Notes

• Make sure to shred chicken thoroughly for even distribution and better texture throughout the casserole.
• Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free version, ensuring all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
• Allow casserole to rest 5-10 minutes after baking to help layers set and make cutting easier without falling apart.
• Customize heat levels by selecting mild, medium, or hot enchilada sauce depending on spice preference of diners.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 332 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 710 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 26 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg