Easy Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole
A warm, filling, and easy-to-prepare casserole combining shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and rich enchilada sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken from a rotisserie chicken or boiled chicken breasts
- 12 pieces corn tortillas adds texture and structure
- 28 oz red enchilada sauce two 14-oz cans
- 4 oz cream cheese cubed, contributes creaminess and richness
- 3 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend divided, adds melty texture and flavor
- 1 medium onion finely chopped, provides sweetness and depth
- 2 cloves garlic minced, enhances overall flavor
- 1 tbsp taco seasoning adds spice and warmth
- 2 tbsp olive oil for sautéing and flavor
Optional Garnishes
- fresh cilantro for topping
- sour cream for topping
- sliced jalapeños for topping
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and cook until it starts to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and taco seasoning to the skillet. Stir and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked shredded chicken and red enchilada sauce, stirring until the chicken is evenly coated.
- Add the sautéed onion and garlic mixture to the chicken and sauce in the bowl. Stir gently to incorporate.
Assembly
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread a thin layer of the chicken and enchilada mixture on the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Layer four corn tortillas over the chicken mixture, overlapping slightly.
- Spoon another layer of the chicken and enchilada mixture over the tortillas. Spread evenly.
- Sprinkle one cup of shredded Mexican cheese blend over the chicken mixture.
- Layer another four corn tortillas followed by the remaining chicken mixture.
- Top with a final layer of tortillas and sprinkle the remaining cheese blend on top.
Cooking
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños if desired.
Notes
For best results, use high-quality enchilada sauce and allow the casserole to sit after baking for optimal cutting and serving.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2g
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