Shredded Chicken Green Chile Casserole
Highlighted under: Soulful Meals
I absolutely love making this Shredded Chicken Green Chile Casserole when I want something hearty and satisfying. This dish is brimming with flavors that dance on the palate, combining tender chicken with the warm spice of green chiles, all enveloped in a deliciously creamy sauce. It’s quick to prepare and bakes beautifully, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Trust me, once you try this casserole, it will become a regular in your meal rotation!
When I first made this casserole, I was looking for something comforting and flavorful. The combination of shredded chicken and green chiles is simply unbeatable! The green chiles add a wonderful depth that elevates the entire dish, giving it a warm, zesty kick that I can’t resist.
One key tip I discovered is to use a blend of cheeses for that perfect melty texture. I typically mix Monterey Jack and sharp cheddar, and it makes all the difference! So don’t skip on the cheese; each bite will have layers of flavors that you’ll love!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy layers of flavor that are simply irresistible
- A perfect balance of spice and comfort food goodness
- Easy to make, perfect for family dinners or gatherings
Understanding the Ingredients
The combination of tender, cooked shredded chicken and zesty diced green chiles serves as the foundation for this casserole's flavor profile. The green chiles provide a manageable heat level while adding depth to the dish. For those who love more heat, feel free to opt for hotter varieties or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the chicken mixture for a flavorful kick.
Sour cream plays a crucial role in ensuring that the casserole remains creamy and indulgent. It not only contributes to the texture but also balances the spiciness of the chiles. If you prefer a lighter option, consider substituting half of the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist without sacrificing creaminess.
Layering Techniques
Building the layers in your casserole is key to achieving that perfect bite with every serving. Starting with a layer of corn tortillas prevents the bottom from becoming too soggy while also providing that comforting tortilla flavor. Ensure that the strips are evenly distributed to promote even cooking and melting.
Don’t be shy with the cheese! Layering shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar not only enhances the gooey texture but also balances the dish’s flavors. Keep an eye on the cheese while it bakes; it should be melted and bubbly with golden edges for the best presentation and taste.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create this mouthwatering casserole:
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 can (10 oz) diced green chiles
- 2 cups sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheese (Monterey Jack and cheddar mix)
- 1 cup corn tortillas, cut into strips
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish
Have all these ingredients ready? Let’s get cooking!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to whip up your casserole:
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the casserole.
Mix the filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced green chiles, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
Layer the casserole
In a greased baking dish, place a layer of tortilla strips on the bottom. Spread half of the chicken mixture over the strips, followed by a layer of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
Bake
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish and serve
Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Your delicious casserole is now ready to be enjoyed!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to add black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor. You can also make this ahead of time and bake it when you're ready to serve.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This casserole can be made ahead of time, making it an exceptional candidate for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. Prepare the full dish, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, add an extra 10–15 minutes to the baking time, since it will go in cold.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes, for the best texture. You can also freeze the casserole, but make sure to do so before baking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as usual.
Serving Suggestions
This Shredded Chicken Green Chile Casserole pairs beautifully with simple sides such as a fresh green salad or Mexican rice. The freshness of the salad complements the rich, creamy casserole, adding a refreshing crunch and counterbalancing the dish’s flavors.
For a fun twist, consider serving the casserole with a dollop of guacamole or salsa on top, enhancing the flavor profile and adding another layer of texture. A squeeze of fresh lime over the top before serving can brighten the flavors and elevate the overall dining experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully and saves time.
→ How can I make it spicier?
To add more heat, use spicy green chiles or add jalapeños to the filling.
→ Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Just ensure it’s well-covered and reheat in the oven when ready.
→ What should I serve with this casserole?
It pairs beautifully with a light salad or some Mexican rice.
Shredded Chicken Green Chile Casserole
I absolutely love making this Shredded Chicken Green Chile Casserole when I want something hearty and satisfying. This dish is brimming with flavors that dance on the palate, combining tender chicken with the warm spice of green chiles, all enveloped in a deliciously creamy sauce. It’s quick to prepare and bakes beautifully, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Trust me, once you try this casserole, it will become a regular in your meal rotation!
Created by: Penelope Dawson
Recipe Type: Soulful Meals
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 can (10 oz) diced green chiles
- 2 cups sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheese (Monterey Jack and cheddar mix)
- 1 cup corn tortillas, cut into strips
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the casserole.
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced green chiles, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
In a greased baking dish, place a layer of tortilla strips on the bottom. Spread half of the chicken mixture over the strips, followed by a layer of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to add black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor. You can also make this ahead of time and bake it when you're ready to serve.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g