The Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole Recipe

Hearty chicken enchilada casserole brings comfort right to your dinner table with layers of rich flavors and textures.

Cheesy goodness melts between soft tortillas and tender chicken pieces.

Weeknight meals demand something simple yet satisfying like this classic southwestern dish.

Authentic ingredients combine effortlessly to create a crowd-pleasing meal everyone appreciates.

Spices dance through each bite, promising warmth and excitement for hungry diners.

Families gather around this delicious casserole, eager to scoop up every last morsel.

Serve this incredible dish and watch smiles spread across the table.

Ingredients for Chicken Enchilada Casserole

• Corn Tortillas: The foundational layer that provides structure and texture to the casserole.
• Shredded Chicken: The protein-rich core ingredient that adds hearty flavor to the dish.
• Black Beans: A protein and fiber-packed ingredient that enhances the nutritional value of the casserole.
• Enchilada Sauce: A flavorful sauce that infuses the dish with traditional Mexican taste.

• Cheddar Cheese, Monterey Jack Cheese: Creamy cheeses that melt beautifully and add rich, tangy flavor to the casserole.

• Onions, Cilantro, Black Olives: Fresh and zesty toppings that provide additional layers of flavor and garnish to the dish.

How to Prepare Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to create the perfect baking environment for your enchilada casserole.

Step 2: Create the First Tortilla Layer

Grab a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread out half of the corn tortillas in an even, cozy blanket across the bottom.

Step 3: Add the Chicken Foundation

Generously distribute half of your shredded chicken over the tortilla layer, creating a hearty base for your casserole.

Step 4: Build Flavor Layers

• Black beans
• Diced onions

Step 5: Cheese It Up

• Cheddar cheese
• Monterey Jack cheese

across the first layer.

Step 6: Repeat the Delicious Layers

Create a second round of layers by repeating steps 2-5 with the remaining ingredients, building a mouthwatering tower of flavor.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes.

Look for bubbly, melted cheese that’s golden and irresistible.

Step 8: Rest and Garnish

Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes to set.

• Chopped cilantro
• Sliced black olives (optional)

Serve and enjoy your flavor-packed chicken enchilada casserole!

Expert Tips for Chicken Enchilada Casserole

• Use corn tortillas for authentic flavor or whole wheat tortillas for a healthier twist without compromising taste.
• Adjust heat by choosing mild or hot enchilada sauce, or mix both to create your perfect spiciness.
• Assemble the casserole earlier in the day and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve for maximum convenience.
• Replace chicken with shredded beef, turkey, or black beans for vegetarian-friendly variations that keep the dish exciting.
• Let the casserole rest 5 minutes after baking to help cheese set and make serving easier without losing delicious flavor.

Flavorful Twists on Chicken Enchilada Casserole

• Vegetarian Bean Swap: Replace chicken with roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and extra black beans for a hearty plant-based version.
• Gluten-Free Alternative: Use corn tortillas and ensure enchilada sauce is gluten-free certified for celiac-friendly preparation.
• Low-Carb Version: Substitute tortillas with thinly sliced zucchini or cauliflower rice layers to reduce carbohydrate content.
• Spicy Southwest Remix: Add diced jalapeños, green chiles, and swap some cheddar for pepper jack cheese to increase heat and flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Enchilada Casserole

• Fiesta Fresh Finish: Top with chopped fresh cilantro and sliced black olives for a burst of color and authentic Mexican flavor.
• Creamy Cooldown: Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to balance the warm, spicy casserole and add a tangy twist.
• Side Companion Delight: Pair with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a crisp green salad to create a complete and satisfying meal that brings extra texture and nutrition to the table.
• Spice It Up: Offer hot sauce or diced jalapeños on the side for those who love an extra kick of heat with their enchilada casserole.

How to Store Chicken Enchilada Casserole Properly

• Transfer leftover casserole to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cover tightly to prevent moisture loss and flavor absorption from other foods.
• Wrap the casserole securely in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label with the date to track freshness.
• Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until thoroughly warmed. Add a splash of enchilada sauce to prevent drying out.

FAQs

• Are corn tortillas necessary for this recipe?

Corn tortillas provide authentic Mexican flavor and traditional texture, but you can substitute flour tortillas if needed.

• Can I use rotisserie chicken for this casserole?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a convenient and quick alternative to cooking chicken from scratch, saving time and adding extra flavor.

• How can I make this dish spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, use a spicier enchilada sauce, or include red pepper flakes to increase the heat level according to your preference.

• Is this casserole good for meal prep?

Yes, this enchilada casserole reheats well and can be prepared in advance, making it perfect for weekly meal planning and busy schedules.

Chicken Enchilada Casserole: What Makes It Memorable

• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Dive into a hearty, cheesy dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table, perfect for family gatherings or potluck events.
• Quick and Easy Assembly: Layer ingredients effortlessly without complicated techniques, making this casserole a stress-free meal that even novice cooks can master with confidence.
• Versatile Crowd-Solver: Customize with optional toppings like cilantro and black olives, accommodating different taste preferences and adding a fresh, personalized touch to the classic recipe.
• Meal Prep Champion: Prepare ahead of time and reheat later, making it an ideal solution for busy weeknights or when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Chicken Enchilada Casserole Recipe

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4.9 from 32 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty chicken enchilada casserole delivers comfort and flavor from Mexico’s rich culinary traditions. Layers of tortillas, tender chicken, and melted cheese create a satisfying meal that will delight diners seeking authentic southwestern cuisine.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken

Tortillas and Beans:

• 12 small corn tortillas, cut into quarters
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed

Sauces and Cheese:

• 1 can (10 ounces) red enchilada sauce
• 1 can (10 ounces) green enchilada sauce
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Optional Toppings:

• 1/2 cup chopped onions
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives

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Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 350F (175C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Create the first foundation layer by evenly placing corn tortillas across the bottom of the dish.
3. Distribute an even layer of shredded chicken over the tortillas.
4. Drizzle half of the enchilada sauce across the chicken layer, ensuring complete coverage.
5. Scatter black beans and diced onions uniformly over the sauced chicken.
6. Generously sprinkle a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the bean and onion layer.
7. Repeat the layering process with remaining corn tortillas, creating a second complete layer.
8. Top the second layer with remaining shredded chicken, ensuring consistent distribution.
9. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the chicken, covering all areas.
10. Finish with a final generous coating of cheese blend, covering the entire surface.
11. Transfer the casserole to the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until cheese melts and edges become golden and bubbly.
12. Remove from oven and allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
13. Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and sliced black olives for added flavor and presentation.

Notes

• Customize tortillas by using whole wheat or gluten-free options for dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy this hearty meal.
• Create a lighter version by using reduced-fat cheese and adding extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for increased nutrition.
• Prepare chicken ahead of time by slow-cooking or using rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor to the casserole.
• Enhance the dish’s versatility by swapping chicken with black beans or shredded beef for different protein alternatives that suit various preferences.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 400 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 700 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Protein: 33 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg