Name: Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 10 ounce chicken breast (cooked and shredded); 16 ounce green chile enchilada sauce; 4 ounce green chiles (1 small can, chopped); 12 ounce Monterey Jack Cheese; 1 cup sour cream; 10 medium tortillas (flour or corn); 3 springs cilantro (chopped); 3 green onions chopped; 1 medium tomato (chopped)

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There’s something so comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole on a busy weeknight. The Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole is one of those dishes that brings back memories of family gatherings and laughter around the dinner table. I remember the first time I tried it; it was at a friend’s house who was known for her incredible cooking skills. As soon as I took a bite, I was hooked! The combination of tender, shreddedchicken, zesty green chiles, and gooey Monterey Jack cheese wrapped in soft tortillas was absolutely heavenly.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
22 g

Tools Used:
9×13-inch Casserole Dish

What Sets This Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole Apart

It’s Quick and Easy

Life can get hectic, and we all need a recipe that saves time without sacrificing flavor. The Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect choice for those busy weeknights. You can have your family gathered around the table with minimal effort.

Loaded with Flavor

Each layer of this casserole is packed with flavor. The creamy sour cream combined with the spicy green chile enchilada sauce adds a delightful kick that keeps you coming back for more. You won’t find a bland bite in this dish!

Versatile Ingredients

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily adjust it to fit your family’s tastes. Whether you prefer flour or corn tortillas, there’s room to mix things up. You can even swap the chicken for a different protein or add more veggies to make it your own.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner, a game day gathering, or just want something comforting after a long day, this casserole fits the bill. It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.

Great for Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare), this dish tastes amazing reheated! The flavors meld together even more, making each bite just as enjoyable as the first. You can easily store it in the fridge and enjoy it for lunch the next day.

A Family Favorite

Finally, there’s something special about gathering around the table to enjoy a meal together. The Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole brings everyone together, creating memories that last a lifetime. After all, good food is what brings us closer.

Essential Ingredients for Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole

The ingredients in the Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole each play a vital role in creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also satisfying. The core components work harmoniously together, building layers of flavor that excite your taste buds. Let’s take a closer look at these key players.

10 ounce chicken breast (cooked and shredded) – This is the foundation of your casserole. Tender, juicy chicken provides the protein and pairs beautifully with the spicy and creamy components.
16 ounce green chile enchilada sauce – This sauce adds a zesty kick and depth of flavor, making each bite a little spicy and a lot flavorful.
4 ounce green chiles (1 small can, chopped) – These little guys bring the heat and enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
12 ounce Monterey Jack Cheese – Melting this cheese on top creates a gooey, delicious layer that everyone loves.
1 cup sour cream – This ingredient adds creaminess and a bit of tang, balancing out the spice.
10 medium tortillas (flour or corn) – These hold everything together and are the perfect vehicle for all the tasty fillings.
3 springs cilantro (chopped) – A fresh herb that brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color.
3 green onions (chopped) – These provide a fresh crunch and a mild onion flavor that complements the casserole.
1 medium tomato (chopped) – Adds freshness and balances the richness of the cheese and sauce.

How to Cook Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Cooking the Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole is a straightforward process that yields incredible results. Follow these steps to create a dish that will have your family asking for seconds.

Preheat your oven to 425℉. This step is essential for getting that golden brown cheese topping.
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with 8 ounces of the green chile enchilada sauce, the chopped green chiles, and half of the Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until everything is well mixed. The flavors will start to meld at this stage, making it aromatic and inviting.
In another bowl, take the remaining enchilada sauce and mix it with the sour cream. This mixture will add creaminess to the casserole. Pour half of this sauce into a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
Now, take a tortilla and spoon a couple of tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto one end. Roll it up tightly and place it seam-side down over the sauce in the dish. Repeat this with all the tortillas until they are filled and rolled, arranging them snugly together.
Pour the remaining sauce over the top of the rolled tortillas, ensuring they are well-covered. This will keep the tortillas moist and flavorful.
Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top. The cheese will melt and create a beautiful crust while baking.
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25 minutes or until golden and bubbly. Keep an eye on it; the smell will be irresistible, and you’ll want to make sure it doesn’t over-brown.
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Top with chopped cilantro, green onions, and tomatoes before serving. This step adds freshness and a burst of color to your casserole.
Serve hot and enjoy the melty, cheesy goodness of your Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole!

Things Worth Knowing

Layering Ingredients: Layer the fillings evenly to ensure each bite is packed with flavor. This makes the casserole more enjoyable and balanced.
Baking Dish Selection: Using a 9×13 inch dish helps in even cooking. Glass or ceramic works best for this dish.
Resting Time: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking helps it set, making serving easier and cleaner.
Flavor Adjustments: Feel free to increase or decrease the amount of green chiles according to your spice preference. Everyone’s palate is different!

How to Switch It Up

If you’re looking to add some variety to the Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole, here are some great ideas:

Storage: For leftovers, store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.
Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil. When you’re ready to cook, just add a bit of extra time in the oven.
Pairing: This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or some refried beans on the side to balance out the richness.
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, substitute the chicken with black beans or sautéed veggies.
Cheese Variations: Try different cheeses such as cheddar or pepper jack for added flavor.

What Complements This Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Pair it with a fresh salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole perfectly.
Serve with rice: A side of Mexican rice or cilantro-lime rice can enhance your meal.
Great for gatherings: This dish is perfect for potlucks or family dinners. It can feed a crowd, making it a staple for any gathering.
Perfect for lunch: The leftovers make for a delicious and satisfying lunch at work or school.
Seasonal touch: You can incorporate seasonal vegetables into the casserole for a fresh twist.

FAQ

Absolutely! Corn tortillas are a great alternative and add authenticity to your Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole. They tend to hold up a bit better in the casserole, giving you that traditional enchilada flavor. Just ensure you warm them slightly before rolling to make them pliable and easier to work with.

If you’re looking to kick up the heat in your Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole, consider adding more chopped green chiles or even some jalapeños. You can also use a hotter variety of enchilada sauce to give it that extra spice. Just remember to balance it out with the creamy sour cream to keep it delicious!

Yes! Preparing the Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole in advance is a fantastic idea. You can assemble the entire dish, cover it with foil, and store it in the refrigerator for a day or two before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

Definitely! The Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole freezes well. Just wrap it tightly with foil or plastic wrap before placing it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed. You may need to add some extra baking time if it’s still a bit cold when it goes in.

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, some Mexican rice, or even refried beans. You can also add a side of guacamole or salsa for a delightful twist. The Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole is substantial enough on its own, but these sides can enhance your meal experience.

Conclusion

The Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole is a deliciously satisfying dish that combines warmth and comfort in every bite. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. I encourage you to try making this casserole for your next dinner; it’s guaranteed to become a favorite. Embrace the joy of cooking and the happiness it brings to your table!