Quick and Easy Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole

This Quick and Easy Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. It’s perfect for family gatherings, casual weeknight dinners, or even potlucks. With its layers of tender chicken, zesty green chile sauce, and gooey cheese, this casserole promises to satisfy everyone, including picky eaters! Plus, it’s simple enough for even beginner cooks to whip up in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity: The steps are straightforward, making it easy for anyone to prepare.
• Flavorful Layers: Each layer of chicken, sauce, and cheese melds together beautifully for a delicious taste experience.
• Versatile Dish: This casserole can be served as a main course or paired with your favorite sides.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It serves up to 8 people, making it ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the casserole in advance and simply bake when you’re ready to eat.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Quick and Easy Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole smoothly, you’ll need some essential tools. Having these ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Metal tongs
• Mixing bowl
• Oven mitts

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good-sized baking dish ensures even cooking and allows you to layer your ingredients perfectly.
• Metal tongs: These are great for safely handling hot tortillas while charring them without burning yourself.
• Mixing bowl: Use this for shredding the chicken and mixing any ingredients if needed.

Ingredients

This tasty chicken enchilada casserole is a family favorite, loved even by picky eaters. It’s so simple and delicious that it even earned me a spot in the newspaper! You can skip the charring step if you prefer—just tear the tortillas into quarters for better absorption of the sauce.

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Garlic salt (to taste)

For the Casserole

• 18 (6-inch) corn tortillas, torn in half
• 1 (28 oz) can green chile enchilada sauce
• 1 (16 oz) package shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 (8 oz) container reduced-fat sour cream

How to Make Quick and Easy Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish.

Step 2: Bake the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with garlic salt.
2. Place them in the prepared baking dish.
3. Bake for about 45 minutes or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once baked:
1. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
2. Shred into bite-sized pieces using two forks or your hands. Set aside.

Step 4: Char the Tortillas

While the chicken cools:
1. Char tortilla halves over an open flame using metal tongs.
2. Cook them for about 1 minute until lightly puffed.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. Pour 1/2 inch of enchilada sauce into the bottom of the baking dish.
2. Arrange 6 tortilla halves in a single layer on top of the sauce.
3. Layer with half of the shredded chicken, 1/3 of cheese, 1/2 of sour cream, and 1/3 of remaining enchilada sauce.
4. Repeat layering with remaining tortillas, chicken, cheese, sour cream, and enchilada sauce.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the casserole with foil and bake in preheated oven for another 45 minutes.

Step 7: Serve

Allow cooling slightly before serving hot from the oven. Enjoy your delicious Quick and Easy Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole!

How to Serve Quick and Easy Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole

This Quick and Easy Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. You can enhance your dining experience with various accompaniments that complement the flavors of this dish.

Add Fresh Toppings

• Chopped Cilantro – A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and freshness.
• Diced Avocado – Creamy avocado enhances the richness of the casserole.
• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream balances the spicy elements in the dish.

Serve with Rice

• Mexican Rice – A side of fluffy Mexican rice complements the casserole nicely, absorbing its flavors.
• Cilantro Lime Rice – This zesty rice option adds a refreshing twist that pairs well with the enchiladas.

Include a Salad

• Simple Green Salad – A light salad with mixed greens can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty casserole.
• Corn Salad – A vibrant corn salad adds sweetness and texture, making for a colorful plate.

How to Perfect Quick and Easy Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole

To achieve perfection with your Quick and Easy Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole, follow these handy tips that will elevate your cooking game.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh chicken and homemade sauces will enhance the flavor significantly compared to processed options.
• Adjust Spice Levels – If you prefer more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or using spicier enchilada sauce.
• Layer Wisely – Ensure even distribution of ingredients for consistent flavors in every bite.
• Let It Rest – Allowing the casserole to cool slightly before serving helps it set, making it easier to slice and serve.
• Experiment with Cheeses – Try different cheeses like pepper jack for an extra kick or a mix of cheeses for depth of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Quick and Easy Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your Quick and Easy Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement this flavorful dish perfectly.

1. Refried Beans – Creamy refried beans are a classic side that adds protein and richness to your meal.
2. Guacamole – This creamy avocado dip brings a rich texture and flavor, perfect for dipping or spreading on tortillas.
3. Chips and Salsa – Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa make for a great starter or snack alongside your casserole.
4. Grilled Vegetables – Lightly seasoned grilled veggies add color, flavor, and nutrition to your plate.
5. Elote (Mexican Street Corn) – Sweet corn slathered in creamy sauce is a delicious complement that’s bursting with flavor.
6. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies provides a healthy option that balances the richness of the casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Quick and Easy Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole can be a breeze, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning – Failing to season your chicken adequately can lead to bland flavors. Always use garlic salt or your preferred spices to enhance the taste.
• Overbaking the chicken – Cooking the chicken longer than necessary can make it dry. Ensure you check the internal temperature and remove it once it reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Ignoring layering – Skipping layers or not arranging ingredients evenly can affect the casserole’s texture. Be sure to layer everything as instructed for optimal results.
• Using cold ingredients – Adding cold sour cream or cheese can slow down cooking time and affect melting. Let them come to room temperature before using.
• Not allowing it to cool slightly – Serving the casserole immediately after baking may result in messy portions. Let it cool for a few minutes for better slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Quick and Easy Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Quick and Easy Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake for about 25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Quick and Easy Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole?

This dish is a layered casserole featuring shredded chicken, tortillas, enchilada sauce, cheese, and sour cream, making it flavorful and comforting.

How long does it take to make Quick and Easy Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole?

The total time is about 105 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or beef based on your preference.

How can I customize this casserole?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or corn between layers for added nutrition and flavor.

Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prepping.

What side dishes go well with Quick and Easy Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole?

Consider serving it with rice, beans, or a fresh salad as complementary sides.

Final Thoughts

The Quick and Easy Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor that appeals to everyone at the table. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients as desired. Don’t hesitate; give this recipe a try today!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Quick and Easy Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of our Quick and Easy Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole, a dish that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. This delightful casserole features layers of shredded chicken, zesty green chile sauce, and gooey cheese, all nestled between soft tortillas. It’s not only simple to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will adore. With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, you can have a hearty meal ready to serve in no time. Customize it with your favorite toppings and sides for a complete dining experience that everyone will enjoy!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Garlic salt (to taste)
• 18 corn tortillas (6-inch, torn in half)
• 1 can (28 oz) green chile enchilada sauce
• 1 package (16 oz) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 container (8 oz) reduced-fat sour cream

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a medium-sized baking dish.
2. Season the chicken with garlic salt and bake for about 45 minutes until fully cooked (165°F/74°C). Let cool slightly before shredding.
3. Char tortilla halves over an open flame for about 1 minute until puffed.
4. Spread half an inch of enchilada sauce at the bottom of the baking dish. Layer with tortillas, half the chicken, one-third of the cheese, half the sour cream, and remaining enchilada sauce. Repeat layers.
5. Cover with foil and bake for another 45 minutes. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 90 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 830mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 85mg