Chicken Enchilada Casserole Recipe - Easy and Delicious

If you're a fan of Mexican food and love casseroles that are simple, hearty, and packed with flavor, this recipe is for you. Chicken enchilada casserole brings together the rich, zesty taste of enchiladas in a layered, family-friendly casserole form—without the fuss of rolling tortillas. Perfect for busy weeknights or an easy crowd-pleaser.

Follow along to get the full recipe, plus tips and tricks to make this dish even better. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this casserole is guaranteed to impress.

What is Chicken Enchilada Casserole?

Chicken enchilada casserole is essentially deconstructed enchiladas baked to perfection. Instead of rolling enchiladas individually, you layer everything in a baking dish—chicken, tortillas, cheese, and a flavorful enchilada sauce. The result? A cheesy, zesty, and ultra-satisfying meal that hits all the right notes without taking hours to prepare.

This dish captures all the bold flavors of classic enchiladas but streamlines the process, making it ideal for busy families or beginner cooks looking to try a little Mexican-inspired comfort food.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Skip the tedious tortilla rolling and jump straight into layering for faster meal prep.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Loaded with cheesy, saucy goodness, it's guaranteed to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: You can swap or add ingredients to suit various dietary preferences (vegetarian or spicier, for instance).
• Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day and is perfect for meal prepping.

Ingredients You'll Need

To make this flavorful chicken enchilada casserole, here's what you’ll need:

• 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
• 12 small corn tortillas (cut into quarters for easy layering)
• 3 cups of shredded Mexican blend cheese (cheddar, pepper jack, or your choice)
• 1 can (10 oz) of red enchilada sauce
• 1 can (10 oz) of green enchilada sauce (optional for added flavor layers)
• 1 cup of sour cream (optional for creaminess)
• 1 small can (4 oz) of diced green chilies
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh cilantro
• Sliced avocado
• Diced tomatoes
• Jalapeños for an extra kick

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Green Chilies

Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the finely chopped onion until soft and translucent. Toss in the green chilies and cook for an additional minute. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, garlic powder, cumin, sautéed onion, diced green chilies, and 1/2 cup of the enchilada sauce. If you’re adding sour cream, mix it into the chicken mixture for added creaminess.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

Start by spreading a thin layer of enchilada sauce at the bottom of your baking dish. Lay down an even layer of tortilla pieces to cover the bottom. Add a layer of the chicken mixture, sprinkle a generous amount of cheese, and drizzle the enchilada sauce on top. Repeat the layers (tortillas, chicken, cheese, sauce) until all the ingredients are used up. Finish with a layer of cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and slightly golden.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. Top with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, diced tomatoes, or jalapeños for an extra touch of flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Chicken Enchilada Casserole

• Make It Spicy: Add a few dashes of hot sauce to your enchilada sauce or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper with the chicken mixture.
• Short on Time? Use store-bought rotisserie chicken and pre-shredded cheese to save prep time.
• Switch It Up: Try flour tortillas instead of corn if you prefer a softer texture, or add black beans and corn for extra heartiness.
• Meal Prep: This casserole freezes well—simply assemble it in an oven-safe dish, wrap it tightly, and freeze it. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed.

Why Casserole Lovers Will Be Obsessed

Casseroles have long been a favorite for their simplicity, but this chicken enchilada version takes it up a notch. The bold flavors of the smoky red enchilada sauce paired with the melted cheese and tender chicken make each bite irresistible. Best of all, it has that home-cooked, comforting warmth that’s perfect for any occasion.

Pair It With...

Need side dish ideas? Consider pairing this casserole with:

• Mexican Rice for a complete meal.
• Refried Beans or black bean salad to round out the plate.
• Margaritas or Agua Fresca for a fun drink pairing.

Final Thoughts

Next time you’re craving something bold, delicious, and easy to make, this chicken enchilada casserole should top your list. It’s flexible, full of flavor, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether it’s a quick family dinner or a dish for a potluck, this recipe will always deliver.

Start layering, and bring the flavors of Mexico straight to your kitchen table. Give it a try and share your creations—tag us on social media with your casserole pics!