Layered Chicken Enchilada Casserole is a fantastic casserole dinner recipe, offering all the flavors of traditional enchiladas without the fuss of rolling. You’ll love this easy-to-assemble dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or feeding a crowd.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken: Use pre-cooked shredded chicken for convenience, or cook and shred your own.
- Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional, but flour tortillas work well too.
- Enchilada Sauce: A good quality canned sauce saves time, or you can make your own.
- Cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend are all excellent choices.
Ingredients
Main:
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 12 corn tortillas (6-inch)
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce
- 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Spices (for chicken, if cooking from scratch):
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
- Tools Needed: 9×13 inch baking dish, mixing bowls
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Ensure your chicken is cooked and shredded. If using a block of cheese, shred it yourself for better melting. Lightly warm your tortillas if they are stiff, making them easier to handle.
2. Mix the Chicken Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken with 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce and the sour cream. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated. This step ensures your casserole dinner is moist and flavorful throughout.
3. Assemble the First Layer
Pour about 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce into the bottom of your 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it evenly. Arrange a single layer of tortillas (about 4-5) over the sauce, overlapping them slightly if needed to cover the bottom.
4. Add Chicken and Cheese
Spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortilla layer. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded cheese over the chicken. This creates a delicious, gooey layer in your casserole dinner.
5. Repeat Layers
Add another layer of tortillas, followed by the remaining chicken mixture and another 1/2 cup of cheese. Top with the final layer of tortillas, ensuring the casserole is covered.
6. Finish with Sauce and Cheese
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top layer of tortillas, spreading it to the edges. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the sauce.
7. Bake the Casserole
Bake your layered chicken enchilada casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
8. Garnish and Serve
Garnish your finished casserole dinner with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting meal!
Variation Ideas
- Add a layer of black beans or corn for extra texture and nutrition.
- Incorporate diced bell peppers or sautéed onions into the chicken mixture.
- Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
- Use green enchilada sauce for a different flavor profile.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover layered chicken enchilada casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions or warm the entire dish in the oven until heated through. This casserole dinner recipe reheats beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole the day before and refrigerate it. Add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
What kind of chicken should I use?
Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works perfectly for convenience. You can also boil or bake chicken breasts and shred them.
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Absolutely! Flour tortillas will give the casserole a slightly softer texture.
Is this casserole dinner spicy?
The spice level depends on your enchilada sauce. You can choose mild, medium, or hot.
What side dishes pair well with this casserole?
A simple green salad, rice, or refried beans are excellent accompaniments to this casserole dinner.
How do I prevent the tortillas from getting soggy?
Lightly warming the tortillas before layering can help, and ensuring the sauce is not excessively thin also helps.