Name: Chicken Enchilada Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded chicken; 10 corn tortillas; 2 cups red enchilada sauce; 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can diced green chiles (4 oz); 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for topping); 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (for garnish); 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)

If you’re craving bold flavors layered with tender chicken, gooey cheese, and comforting spices, this Chicken Enchilada Casserole is your weeknight hero. It takes everything you love about traditional enchiladas and transforms them into a baked, cheesy, crowd-pleasing dish with minimal fuss.

Instead of rolling each enchilada individually, this recipe layers all the goodness into a casserole format—just like a Mexican lasagna. It’s fast, filling, and just right for family dinners, meal prepping, or potluck gatherings. The melty cheese topping with a sprinkle of green onions makes it irresistible straight out of the oven.

What Kind of Tortillas Should I Use?

Corn tortillas are classic for enchiladas and hold up better in casseroles than flour tortillas, which can get gummy. Lightly frying or warming them before layering keeps them from tearing and enhances their flavor. You can also use low-carb or gluten-free options if preferred.

Ingredients for the Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Shredded Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to save time. It soaks up the sauce perfectly.
Corn Tortillas: These create the structure and texture of the casserole.
Enchilada Sauce: Red enchilada sauce brings the spicy, smoky base. Homemade or store-bought both work.
Cheddar and Monterey Jack Cheese: For that bubbling, golden layer of creamy goodness.
Black Beans: They add heartiness and pair beautifully with the other flavors.
Green Chiles: Canned diced green chiles give a subtle heat and tang.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics build the base flavor.
Green Onions & Cilantro: For topping and freshness.

How To Make the Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a skillet, sauté chopped onions in a little oil until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Mix in green chiles, shredded chicken, black beans, and a portion of enchilada sauce. Stir until heated through.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

Start with a layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the dish. Then layer torn corn tortillas, followed by the chicken mixture and shredded cheese. Repeat the layers until ingredients are used up, ending with cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped green onions and cilantro. Let it sit for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

How to Serve and Store This Chicken Enchilada Casserole

This casserole is best served hot, fresh out of the oven. It’s also perfect for meal prep as the flavors deepen over time. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven. It also freezes well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

What to Serve With Chicken Enchilada Casserole?

Mexican Rice

A fluffy, tomato-rich rice is a perfect base for soaking up all the saucy goodness.

Refried Beans

Creamy and smooth, they complement the bold flavors of the casserole.

Simple Green Salad with Lime Vinaigrette

A refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.

Chips and Salsa

Crispy chips and a zesty salsa are always welcome.

Guacamole

Creamy and cool, it balances the spice in the enchiladas.

Elote (Mexican Street Corn)

Grilled corn with cotija cheese, lime, and chili powder.

Pickled Red Onions

They add brightness and a tangy crunch.

Mexican Hot Chocolate

For dessert, enjoy a cozy cup spiced with cinnamon and chili.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If this Chicken Enchilada Casserole is a hit, you’ll love exploring these other comforting casseroles from ChefAlchemy:

Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a cozy, pasta-based comfort dish.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole when you’re in the mood for creamy, cheesy elegance.
Buffalo Chicken Lasagna for a spicy twist on a classic.
Cheesy Hamburger Casserole for a hearty, family-style bake.
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole for rich, savory flavor in every bite.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so you can come back to it any time.

And if you try it, let me know! Did you layer extra cheese or swap in green enchilada sauce? Have questions? Drop them in the comments—sharing makes every meal better.

Explore more health-boosting and flavor-packed meals on ChefAlchemy’s Pinterest for your daily dose of delicious inspiration!

Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Author: Lorenzo Devereaux
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Level up your dinner routine with this comforting Chicken Enchilada Casserole. It’s a delicious, easy dinner idea that combines layers of seasoned chicken, black beans, enchilada sauce, tortillas, and melty cheese into one irresistible bake. Perfect for a weeknight family meal, potluck, or meal prep, this recipe brings the flavor of traditional enchiladas in a simpler, casserole form. Whether you’re searching for quick meals, easy casseroles, or hearty food ideas, this dish checks every box—cozy, filling, and crowd-approved.