Easy Chicken Enchilada Casserole Recipe for Busy Weeknights
This Easy Chicken Enchilada Casserole recipe is a comforting family-friendly dish perfect for busy weeknights.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Baking dish
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 2 tbsp canola oil Substitute with olive oil if desired.
- 3 cloves garlic (finely chopped) Using fresh garlic enhances the dish.
- 1 medium jalapeño (seeded and finely chopped) Omit for a milder casserole.
- 1 large onion (diced) Yellow or white onions work best.
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken Using rotisserie chicken simplifies prep.
- 2 cans diced green chiles (4-ounce cans) Fire-roasted chiles add extra flavor.
- 1/2 tsp paprika Smoked paprika can be used for depth.
- to taste kosher salt & black pepper Adjust seasoning as desired.
For the Casserole
- 3 cans green enchilada sauce (10-ounce cans)
- 2/3 cup sour cream Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute.
- 18 pieces corn tortillas (cut in half) Flour tortillas may change texture.
- 3 cups grated Monterey Jack cheese Blending with cheddar is an option.
- to taste fresh cilantro (chopped) Omit if desired.
Instructions
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic, jalapeño, and diced onion, sautéing until translucent and fragrant (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in cooked chicken, canned diced green chiles, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until warmed through (about 3-4 minutes).
- Assemble the casserole by spreading a thin layer of green enchilada sauce across the bottom of a baking dish.
- Layer half of the tortilla halves over the sauce, followed by half of the chicken mixture. Dollop half of the sour cream and sprinkle with grated cheese.
- Repeat layers with more sauce, remaining tortilla halves, remaining chicken mixture, remaining sour cream, and top with remaining cheese.
- Top with remaining enchilada sauce and cheese.
- Bake covered with foil for 25 minutes. Then uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbling and golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking for easier slicing and flavor melding.