Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Authentic Mexican Chicken Enchilada Casserole — a delicious chicken dish with 4 ingredients. Follow our detailed step-by-step instructions for the perfect result.

Medium
Updated March 14, 2026

20

Prep Time (min)

30

Cook Time (min)

4

servings

380

Calories/serving

Medium

Difficulty

Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Ingredients

Servings:
4
  • 14 oz jar Enchilada sauce
  • 3 Cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 6 corn tortillas
  • 2 chicken breasts

Instructions

5 steps · ~71 minutes total

  1. Step 1

    Cut each chicken breast in about 3 pieces, so that it cooks faster and put it in a small pot. Pour Enchilada sauce over it and cook covered on low to medium heat until chicken is cooked through, about 20 minutes. No water is needed, the chicken will cook in the Enchilada sauce. Make sure you stir occasionally so that it doesn't stick to the bottom.

    8 minutes
    Keep your fingers curled under (claw grip) for safety when cutting.
  2. Step 2

    Remove chicken from the pot and shred with two forks.

    3 minutes
  3. Step 3

    Preheat oven to 375 F degrees.

    25 minutes
    Always preheat your oven fully before baking for even cooking.
  4. Step 4

    Start layering the casserole. Start with about ¼ cup of the leftover Enchilada sauce over the bottom of a baking dish. I used a longer baking dish, so that I can put 2 corn tortillas across. Place 2 tortillas on the bottom, top with ⅓ of the chicken and ⅓ of the remaining sauce. Sprinkle with ⅓ of the cheese and repeat starting with 2 more tortillas, then chicken, sauce, cheese. Repeat with last layer with the remaining ingredients, tortillas, chicken, sauce and cheese.

    10 minutes
  5. Step 5

    Bake for 20 to 30 minutes uncovered, until bubbly and cheese has melted and started to brown on top. Serve warm.

    25 minutes
    Always preheat your oven fully before baking for even cooking.

💡 Tips & Tricks

This Mexican recipe for Chicken Enchilada Casserole is best served fresh. Adjust seasoning to your taste.

🔄 Variations

• Protein swap: Try substituting the main protein with chicken, tofu, or shrimp for a different take on this dish. • Spice level: Adjust the heat to your preference — add more chili for extra kick, or reduce it for a milder version. • Vegetarian: Replace meat with mushrooms, chickpeas, or your favorite plant-based protein. • Fusion twist: Combine elements of Mexican cuisine with your local favorites for a creative fusion dish.

Storage & Reheating

❄️

Refrigerator

Up to 3 days in an airtight container

🧊

Freezer

Up to 2 months — thaw overnight in fridge

🔥

Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

What to Serve With

Complete your mexican meal with these perfect pairings:

🍽️Cilantro lime rice
🍽️Refried beans
🍽️Fresh guacamole

About This Dish

Chicken Enchilada Casserole is a beloved dish from Mexican cuisine, originating in Mexico. With a total preparation time of about 50 minutes, it makes for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Mexican cuisine has deep roots in Mesoamerican and Spanish traditions. Recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, it features bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and centuries-old cooking techniques.

This recipe is rated medium difficulty and uses 4 ingredients. Intermediate cooks will enjoy the balanced challenge.

Frequently Asked Questions

You will need shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, tortillas, and cheese for this simple Chicken Enchilada Casserole.

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Nutrition Facts

4 serving(s) per recipe

Serving size1 serving
Calories380kcal
Total Fat17g
Sodium771mg
Total Carbohydrates42g
Dietary Fiber3g
Protein46g

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

Recipe Details

CuisineMexican
CategoryDinner
CountryMexico