If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy, and flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for weeknights or potlucks, look no further than this Green Chili Chicken Enchilada Casserole. It’s a simple, oven-baked meal layered with shredded chicken, creamy green chile sauce, tortillas, and melted cheese. Think of it as all the goodness of traditional enchiladas—without the tedious rolling.
This recipe is loved for its ease and versatility. You can make it ahead of time, customize it with pantry staples, and serve it to a crowd. Let’s walk through the steps and tips for making this family-favorite casserole.
Why You’ll Love This Green Chili Enchilada Casserole
Quick and Easy: No need to roll individual enchiladas.
Perfect for Leftover Chicken: Great way to use up rotisserie chicken or meal-prepped shredded chicken.
Packed with Flavor: Creamy, spicy, and cheesy—each bite is delicious.
Freezer-Friendly: Make it ahead and freeze for later.
Ingredients You’ll Need: Green Chili Chicken Enchilada Casserole
Here’s what goes into this creamy chicken enchilada casserole:
3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
1 can (10 oz) green enchilada sauce
1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp cumin
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese
8 small corn tortillas, cut into quarters
Fresh cilantro or chopped green onions (optional for garnish)
Instructions: Green Chili Chicken Enchilada Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a large bowl, mix together the green enchilada sauce, diced green chilies, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, and cumin until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Layer the bottom of the dish with half of the tortilla pieces. Top with half of the shredded chicken, pour over half of the sauce mixture, and sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers: tortillas, chicken, sauce, and the remaining cheese.
Step 4: Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 5: Serve
Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped cilantro, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream.
Tips for Success
Use pre-cooked chicken to save time—rotisserie chicken or even canned chicken works well.
Add heat by mixing in a chopped jalapeño or using Pepper Jack cheese.
Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Freezer tip: Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
What to Serve With It
This casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can round out the meal with:
Spanish rice or cilantro lime rice
A simple side salad with avocado
Chips and salsa or guacamole
Easy Chicken Enchilada Casserole Recipe
FAQs : Green Chili Chicken Enchilada Casserole
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Yes, but corn tortillas hold up better to baking and offer a more authentic enchilada flavor. If you prefer flour tortillas, go for the smaller, taco-size ones and reduce baking time slightly to prevent sogginess.
Is it spicy?
This casserole has a mild heat from the green chilies and sauce, but it’s not overly spicy. If you’re sensitive to spice, use mild enchilada sauce and Monterey Jack cheese. Want more heat? Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the chicken for black beans, sautéed bell peppers, or a mix of beans and veggies for a delicious meatless version.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm in the oven.
Can I freeze it?
Yes! Assemble the casserole in a foil dish, cover tightly, and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw overnight and cook as directed. You can also freeze cooked leftovers for up to 2 months.
Final Thoughts: Green Chili Chicken Enchilada Casserole
This Green Chili Chicken Enchilada Casserole is everything you want in a quick and satisfying dinner—easy, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, it’s a reliable go-to that brings the taste of Tex-Mex to your table with minimal effort.
Try it tonight and enjoy the cheesy, creamy comfort! Roasted yellow squash.