Name: Chicken Enchilada Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Mexican American
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked shredded chicken; 2 cups red enchilada sauce; 8 corn or flour tortillas; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1 can 15 oz black beans drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn kernels; 1 can 4 oz diced green chiles; 1/2 cup chopped onion; 1 tablespoon taco seasoning; 1 cup sour cream

Chicken Enchilada Casserole is the kind of dinner that brings everyone to the table fast. It has all the bold, comforting flavors of classic enchiladas, but layered into a simple baked dish that saves you time without sacrificing taste. Tender shredded chicken, rich enchilada sauce, melted cheese, and soft tortillas come together in every satisfying bite.

This is one of those meals that works just as well for a busy weeknight as it does for feeding a hungry crowd on game day. It is warm, cheesy, and packed with flavor, yet incredibly easy to assemble. Once you try it, it is likely to become a regular part of your dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Enchilada Casserole

This Chicken Enchilada Casserole delivers all the flavor of traditional enchiladas without the extra step of rolling each tortilla. Everything is layered neatly in a baking dish, which means less prep and less mess. It is hearty, filling, and customizable depending on how spicy or cheesy you like it.

It also reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers. The flavors deepen overnight, and a quick warm up the next day tastes just as delicious as when it first came out of the oven.

Can I Use Corn or Flour Tortillas for Chicken Enchilada Casserole?

Both options work well in this casserole. Corn tortillas give a more traditional enchilada flavor and slightly firmer texture, while flour tortillas create a softer, more tender layer. If you love authentic Mexican inspired flavor, go with corn. If you prefer a softer bite that feels more like a layered pasta bake, flour tortillas are a great choice.

Ingredients for the Chicken Enchilada Casserole

The beauty of Chicken Enchilada Casserole is that it uses simple, easy to find ingredients that come together in a flavorful way. Each component plays an important role in building layers of texture and bold taste.

Cooked shredded chicken adds hearty protein and makes the casserole filling and satisfying.
Red enchilada sauce brings rich, smoky flavor and ties all the layers together.
Corn or flour tortillas create structure and give the casserole its signature layered texture.
Shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully and adds sharp, creamy richness.
Shredded Monterey Jack cheese balances the cheddar with a smooth, mild melt.
Black beans add extra protein and a subtle earthy flavor.
Corn kernels provide a touch of sweetness and texture contrast.
Diced green chiles give gentle heat and depth of flavor.
Chopped onion enhances the savory base of the dish.
Taco seasoning boosts the overall flavor with a blend of spices.
Sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spice.

How To Make the Chicken Enchilada Casserole

This casserole comes together in simple layers, making it perfect even if you are short on time.

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced green chiles, chopped onion, taco seasoning, and about half of the enchilada sauce. Mix until everything is evenly coated and well combined.

Step 2: Layer the Base

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a greased baking dish. Place a layer of tortillas over the sauce, cutting them as needed to fit.

Step 3: Add Filling and Cheese

Spread a portion of the chicken mixture over the tortillas. Sprinkle a generous handful of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese on top. Repeat the layers of tortillas, filling, sauce, and cheese until all ingredients are used, finishing with a thick layer of cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly

Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving much easier.

Serving and Storing Chicken Enchilada Casserole

This Chicken Enchilada Casserole comfortably feeds about 6 to 8 people, depending on portion size. Serve it straight from the baking dish with your favorite toppings like fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream.

To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before covering and refrigerating. It will keep well for up to 4 days. You can also freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

What to Serve With Chicken Enchilada Casserole?

Mexican Rice

A side of fluffy Mexican rice complements the bold flavors and soaks up any extra sauce beautifully.

Fresh Garden Salad

A crisp salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and a light lime dressing balances the richness of the casserole.

Refried Beans

Creamy refried beans add another comforting, traditional element to the meal.

Guacamole and Chips

Creamy guacamole with crunchy tortilla chips makes a fun and flavorful side.

Roasted Vegetables

Oven roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli add color and a healthy touch.

Cilantro Lime Slaw

A tangy slaw adds brightness and crunch that pairs perfectly with cheesy enchiladas.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you enjoyed this Chicken Enchilada Casserole, you might also love these comforting favorites from Mia Plates.

Try the Best Chicken and Rice Casserole for another creamy, family friendly bake: https://miaplates.com/best-chicken-and-rice-casserole/

If you like bold flavors, the Jalapeno Popper Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas with Creamy Sauce are packed with extra spice and richness: https://miaplates.com/jalapeno-popper-cheesy-chicken-enchiladas-with-creamy-sauce/

For a classic Italian inspired option, Chicken Parmesan is always a hit at the dinner table: https://miaplates.com/chicken-parmesan/

If you are craving something cozy and spoonable, Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup is pure comfort in a bowl: https://miaplates.com/creamy-alfredo-lasagna-soup/

Save This Recipe For Later

Save this Chicken Enchilada Casserole to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you make it extra spicy or keep it mild for the family? Did you add extra cheese on top?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are always welcome and sharing tips helps everyone cook with more confidence.

Explore beautifully curated daily dishes on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover even more meals you will want to try: https://www.pinterest.com/amarieg309/