Introduction:
If you’re craving a dish that combines bold Mexican flavors with the creamy comfort of a hearty casserole, look no further than this Creamy Chicken Enchilada Casserole. It’s the kind of dinner that brings the family together, with layers of tender chicken, melty cheese, a creamy enchilada sauce, and soft tortillas baked to bubbly perfection.
Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner, feeding a crowd, or looking for a freezer-friendly meal prep idea, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make the best creamy chicken enchilada casserole ever!
🥘 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this easy, flavorful casserole:
For the Chicken:
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Enchilada Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
For Assembly:
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 10 corn tortillas (or flour if you prefer)
- 1/2 cup enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, avocado
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Chicken
If you’re not using rotisserie chicken, cook chicken breasts or thighs in a pan with olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Shred it and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and whisk in the flour to make a roux. Gradually add the chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Once thickened (about 3–5 minutes), stir in sour cream, green chiles, garlic powder, and salt. Remove from heat once creamy and smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a few tablespoons of the creamy sauce on the bottom. Layer 3–4 tortillas (torn into halves if needed) over the sauce. Add a third of the chicken, a layer of the creamy sauce, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, and repeat the layers two more times. Finish with the remaining tortillas, the rest of the creamy sauce, enchilada sauce drizzle, and a final generous layer of cheese.
Step 4: Bake
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 5: Let It Rest
Let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top with your favorite fresh toppings like chopped cilantro, green onions, or avocado slices. Serve with a side of rice, beans, or a crisp salad.
🧀 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy & Comforting: The sour cream sauce makes this dish incredibly rich and satisfying.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the cheesy, mild flavors.
- Customizable: Easily tweak it to suit different dietary needs or spice preferences.
- Freezer-Friendly: Perfect for meal prep—just assemble and freeze before baking!
🧂 Pro Tips for the Best Casserole
- Use Corn Tortillas: They hold up better than flour tortillas and offer more authentic flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: It makes cutting and serving neater.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños if you prefer a kick.
- Double It: Make two casseroles and freeze one for later—thank yourself later!
🔁 Variations to Try
- Green Enchilada Casserole: Swap the sauce with a green salsa verde and use Monterey Jack cheese.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with black beans, corn, and sautéed veggies like bell peppers and onions.
- Low-Carb Option: Use low-carb tortillas or layers of grilled zucchini instead.
- Spicy Buffalo Twist: Mix buffalo sauce into the chicken and use blue cheese or ranch drizzle.
🧮 Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Serves 8)
- Calories: 410
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on exact ingredients used.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze it unbaked for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I use canned chicken?
A: Yes, although freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken is best for flavor and texture.
Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F oven, covered, until hot throughout.
Q: Can I substitute sour cream?
A: Greek yogurt makes a great substitute. It’s slightly tangier but equally creamy.
🍽️ What to Serve with Chicken Enchilada Casserole
- Mexican Rice or Cilantro Lime Rice
- Refried or Black Beans
- Guacamole or Salsa and Chips
- Fresh Corn Salad
- Simple Green Salad with Lime Vinaigrette
❤️ Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Enchilada Casserole is everything you want in a comfort food—cheesy, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. It’s a one-dish wonder perfect for weeknights, family gatherings, potlucks, or just when you want a little cozy deliciousness.
Easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to please—give it a try, and you’ll have a new favorite in your recipe rotation.