Name: Quick and Easy Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 10 ounces cooked and shredded chicken breast (Use leftover rotisserie chicken or poach chicken breasts for a quick and easy option.); 16 ounces green chile enchilada sauce (Look for a good quality sauce that will provide rich flavor.); 4 ounces green chiles (A small can, chopped, adds a nice kick to the casserole.); 12 ounces Monterey Jack cheese (Grated cheese that melts beautifully and adds creaminess.); 1 cup sour cream (For added creaminess and a touch of tang.); 10 medium tortillas (Flour or corn tortillas work well in this recipe.); 3 springs cilantro (Chopped, for a fresh garnish.); 3 pieces green onions (Chopped, to add a bit of crunch and flavor.); 1 medium tomato (Chopped, for a fresh topping.)

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine to your dinner table without the fuss, you’ve landed in the right spot. This Quick and Easy Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole is a delightful twist on traditional enchiladas, packed with shredded chicken, green chiles, and gooey cheese, all layered between tortillas and smothered in a rich green chile enchilada sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or a delicious meal prep option, this casserole is sure to please the whole family.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is a game changer for several reasons. First, it simplifies the process of making enchiladas, which often requires rolling and filling tortillas. Instead, this casserole allows you to layer the ingredients, making it quicker and easier without sacrificing flavor. The combination of shredded chicken, creamy sour cream, and zesty green chiles creates a delicious filling that is both satisfying and comforting. With a generous layer of Monterey Jack cheese on top, it bakes to a bubbly, golden perfection. Plus, it’s versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite toppings or sides.

What You’ll Need

10 ounces cooked and shredded chicken breast: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or poach chicken breasts for a quick and easy option.
16 ounces green chile enchilada sauce: Look for a good quality sauce that will provide rich flavor.
4 ounces green chiles: A small can, chopped, adds a nice kick to the casserole.
12 ounces Monterey Jack cheese: Grated cheese that melts beautifully and adds creaminess.
1 cup sour cream: For added creaminess and a touch of tang.
10 medium tortillas: Flour or corn tortillas work well in this recipe.
3 springs cilantro: Chopped, for a fresh garnish.
3 green onions: Chopped, to add a bit of crunch and flavor.
1 medium tomato: Chopped, for a fresh topping.

Recommended Tools

9×13 inch baking dish: Perfect size for this casserole.
Mixing bowl: For combining the filling ingredients.
Spatula: Helps in spreading the mixture evenly.
Grater: For freshly grating the cheese, which melts better than pre-shredded.

Build Quick and Easy Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole Step by Step

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready to bake the casserole.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked and shredded chicken breast, green chile enchilada sauce, chopped green chiles, and sour cream. Stir until well mixed.

Step 3: Layer the Tortillas

In your baking dish, start by placing a layer of tortillas on the bottom. You can cut the tortillas to fit if necessary.

Step 4: Add the Filling

Spread half of the chicken filling mixture evenly over the layer of tortillas. Sprinkle with half of the grated Monterey Jack cheese.

Step 5: Repeat the Layers

Add another layer of tortillas, followed by the remaining chicken filling. Top with the rest of the Monterey Jack cheese.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Then, garnish with chopped cilantro, green onions, and chopped tomatoes before serving.

Substitutions by Category

Protein: Swap shredded chicken for shredded beef or beans for a vegetarian version.
Cheese: Substitute Monterey Jack with cheddar or pepper jack for a spicier kick.
Tortillas: Use whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas if desired.
Enchilada Sauce: Make your own enchilada sauce using canned tomatoes and spices for a fresher taste.

Cook’s Notes

For a spicier casserole, consider using hot green chiles or adding jalapeños to the filling.
This dish can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
Feel free to add black beans or corn to the filling for added texture and flavor.
For a creamy topping, you can mix additional sour cream with a little lime juice and pour it over the top before serving.

How to Store & Reheat

To store leftovers, place the casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick meal.

Ask the Chef

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs beautifully with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple green salad for a complete meal. You can also serve it with guacamole or salsa for an extra flavor boost.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking as directed.

Is this dish spicy?

The spiciness can vary based on the brand of green chile enchilada sauce and green chiles you use. For a milder dish, opt for mild sauce and chiles, or adjust according to your heat preference.

Ready, Set, Cook

Gather your ingredients and tools, and get ready to whip up this Quick and Easy Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole. It’s a delightful dish that brings warmth and flavor to any dinner table. With its simple preparation and delicious outcome, you’ll find yourself making this casserole again and again. Enjoy the process of layering, baking, and finally indulging in every cheesy, savory bite. Your family will thank you for it!