Shredded Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Name: Shredded Chicken Enchilada Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 3 cups shredded cooked chicken; 2 cups enchilada sauce; 8 corn tortillas; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a Mexican blend); 1 cup diced onions; 1 cup black beans (optional); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Highlighted under: Cuisine Explorer

I absolutely adore making Shredded Chicken Enchilada Casserole on busy weeknights when we crave something hearty yet easy to prepare. This dish combines tender shredded chicken, rich enchilada sauce, and melted cheese, all layered together with tortillas for a comforting experience. It's one of our family favorites that never fails to impress. With just a handful of ingredients and about an hour in the kitchen, I can serve up a flavorful meal that feels like a special treat any night of the week.

Created by

Penelope Dawson

Last updated on 2026-02-28T02:25:36.314Z

When I first made this casserole, I wanted something that would be a hit at our dinner table and could easily feed a crowd. We often have busy days, so finding a recipe that is both delicious and time-saving is essential. Using rotisserie chicken for the filling makes this meal come together in no time while still offering that homemade taste.

What I love most about this casserole is the layered flavor profile. By incorporating different elements like spices and toppings, I found that the dish holds its own and can easily be customized. Next time, I'm planning to add some black beans for extra protein and fiber!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A perfect blend of flavors with zesty enchilada sauce and creamy cheese
Quick to assemble, making weeknight dinners a breeze
Customizable with your favorite toppings and ingredients

Tips for Perfect Shredded Chicken

Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a time-saver and infuses the dish with flavor. If you're starting from scratch, poach chicken breasts in seasoned water for about 15-20 minutes until fully cooked. Let them cool slightly before shredding. This technique helps maintain moisture and tenderness in the chicken, making your casserole even more enjoyable.

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lime juice and spices beforehand. This not only enhances the taste but also allows for a more vibrant filling. If you're using shredded chicken from a prior meal, keep seasoning in mind, as leftover seasoning could alter the final flavor profile of your casserole.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

Feel free to swap out corn tortillas for flour tortillas if you prefer a softer texture. Alternatively, layering in whole-wheat tortillas can add a healthy twist. When it comes to cheese, using a combination of cheddar and pepper jack will give your casserole a good melt and a bit of a kick.

For an even heartier meal, incorporating vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini can elevate the nutritional value and flavor. Chopped spinach or kale can also be added to the chicken mixture for a touch of green. If you need a dairy-free option, try using a vegan cheese alternative or omit cheese entirely.

Ingredients

For the casserole

3 cups shredded cooked chicken
2 cups enchilada sauce
8 corn tortillas
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a Mexican blend)
1 cup diced onions
1 cup black beans (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Prepare the Chicken Filling

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until softened. Stir in the shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. If using black beans, fold them in as well. Cook for about 5 minutes until everything is heated through.

Layer the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, layer 2 corn tortillas on the bottom. Spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas and sprinkle with a cup of cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining tortillas and topping with the rest of the cheese.

Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with your choice of garnishes like sour cream, avocado, or fresh cilantro.

Tips

Pro Tips

Feel free to add additional vegetables like bell peppers or corn to the chicken mixture for added flavor and nutrition. If you want to make this dish ahead of time, assemble it without baking and refrigerate. Just bake it before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This casserole is ideal for meal prepping! You can assemble it a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just cover the baking dish tightly with foil to prevent it from drying out. When baking from the fridge, add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating works best in the oven—cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. Microwaving is also an option, but it may not hold the same texture.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the Shredded Chicken Enchilada Casserole with a simple side salad dressed in lime vinaigrette or some tortilla chips with salsa for a complete meal. This allows the casserole's flavors to shine while adding a fresh crunch.

For a fun twist, serve with traditional Mexican toppings such as crumbled queso fresco, fresh jalapeños, or pickled red onions. These garnishes not only enhance the visual appeal of the dish but also provide contrasting flavors that can balance the richness of the casserole.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! Just assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze before baking.

→ What can I substitute for the cheese?

You can use dairy-free cheese or omit it completely for a lighter option.

→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Replace the chicken with cooked lentils or more beans and add some sautéed vegetables for extra texture.