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A bubbling enchilada casserole fresh from the oven, topped with melted cheese and herbs.

Classic Weeknight Enchilada Casserole

This easy enchilada casserole is perfect for a quick weeknight meal, layered with shredded chicken, corn tortillas, enchilada sauce, and plenty of cheese, then baked until bubbly and golden.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 6 people
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • large skillet
  • oven

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2-3 cups Cooked Chicken Breast shredded or diced (leftover rotisserie chicken works well)
  • 12-16 count Corn Tortillas
  • 2 cans (15 oz) Enchilada Sauce
  • 2-3 cups Shredded Cheese Monterey Jack, Cheddar, or Mexican blend
  • 1 medium Onion chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
  • 1 can (4 oz) Green Chiles diced (mild or hot)

Seasoning & Spices

  • 1 teaspoon Cumin
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • Salt To taste
  • Pepper To taste

Optional Toppings

  • Sour cream
  • fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, jalapeños

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  • In a skillet, warm olive oil over medium heat, then sauté chopped onion for about 5 minutes until softened.

Assembly

  • Add shredded chicken, diced green chiles, cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder to the skillet; cook for 2-3 minutes, then season with salt and pepper.
  • Spread 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  • Layer corn tortillas over the sauce, followed by one-third of the chicken mixture and one-third of the shredded cheese.
  • Repeat the layering twice more: tortillas, chicken, and cheese, then cover completely with the remaining enchilada sauce and shredded cheese.

Baking & Serving

  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden, then let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the chicken mixture. You can also customize with black beans or corn for added texture. This casserole reheats well for delicious leftovers!