Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
baked chicken enchilada casserole - featured image

Baked Chicken Enchilada Casserole: Easy Family Dinner


  • Author: Thea
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

A lazy, no-roll version of traditional enchiladas that layers tortillas, chicken, sauce, and cheese in a baking dish for a quick, cheesy, and crowd-pleasing weeknight dinner.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie or canned)
  • 1215 small corn tortillas (6 inches wide)
  • 2 cups enchilada sauce
  • 3 cups shredded cheese (Monterey Jack and Cheddar mix)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • Optional: 1 can black beans (drained), 1 cup corn kernels, ½ cup sliced black olives, ¼ cup fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Chop onion, mince garlic, and measure spices. Shred cheese if using blocks.
  3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion for 2-3 minutes until soft.
  4. Add garlic, cumin, and chili powder; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Soften tortillas by microwaving stacks wrapped in damp paper towels for 30 seconds or baking wrapped in foil at 350°F for 10 minutes.
  6. Spread ½ cup enchilada sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
  7. Layer half of the softened tortillas, followed by half the chicken, half the cheese, and any optional add-ins (beans/corn).
  8. Repeat layers with remaining tortillas, chicken, and cheese.
  9. Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the top, ensuring tortillas are soaked.
  10. Top with remaining cheese.
  11. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  12. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow layers to set.
  13. Garnish with cilantro, jalapeños, green onions, sour cream, or avocado.

Notes

Soften tortillas before baking to prevent toughness. Use block cheese for better melting. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to help it set. Can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Freezes well for up to 3 months.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 4
  • Sodium: 650
  • Fat: 22
  • Saturated Fat: 10
  • Carbohydrates: 40
  • Fiber: 3
  • Protein: 25

Keywords: baked chicken enchilada casserole, easy dinner, weeknight meals, no roll enchiladas, family friendly, comfort food, mexican casserole