Shredded Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Name: Shredded Chicken Enchilada Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 2 cups enchilada sauce; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 2 cups corn tortillas, cut into strips; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Homestyle Happiness

I absolutely love making Shredded Chicken Enchilada Casserole for my family on busy weeknights. It’s hearty, flavorful, and comes together in a snap! The combination of tender shredded chicken, zesty enchilada sauce, and gooey cheese makes for a satisfying dish that never fails to impress. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover chicken you might have. I always pair it with a fresh side salad to balance the richness, making it a well-rounded meal that everyone enjoys.

Created by

Felicity Grant

Last updated on 2026-02-28T05:37:34.304Z

When I first experimented with this casserole, I wanted something that packed all the flavors of traditional enchiladas but without the fuss of rolling each one. I found that layering the ingredients allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping preparation simple. One tip I learned is to let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes after baking; this helps the layers set and makes serving much easier.

This dish has become a family favorite because it's not just delicious but also adaptable. You can swap out the chicken for beef or beans for a vegetarian twist. I've even experimented with different cheese blends, and each version brings something unique to the table!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation perfect for busy nights
Rich, tangy enchilada flavor without the hassle
Great for meal prep and leftovers that taste even better the next day

Mastering the Layers

Layering is crucial for achieving the perfect harmony of flavors in this casserole. Start with the chicken mixture to create a flavorful base, allowing the tortilla strips to soak up the sauce's zest as they bake. When constructing your layers, be sure to distribute the ingredients evenly to prevent any one layer from overpowering the others. This will ensure every slice features a balanced combination of chicken, beans, and cheese.

I recommend making the chicken mixture a bit soupy; it will thicken up as it bakes and ensure that every bite is moist. To make the layering process easier, you can use a spatula to carefully spread each layer; this helps keep the tortilla strips from moving too much, maintaining structure as they soften in the baking process.

Choosing the Right Cheese

The cheese you select can dramatically influence the flavor and texture of this casserole. While I often use a Mexican blend for its rich taste, sharp cheddar brings a delightful tang that complements the enchilada sauce beautifully. For a creamier texture, consider incorporating a layer of cream cheese with the chicken mixture—this will create a luscious, velvety mouthfeel.

If you're looking for a lighter option, reduced-fat cheese varieties can still melt well, but may not provide the same depth of flavor. Feel free to explore different cheeses like pepper jack for an added kick or mozzarella for a milder profile. Just remember, you'll want at least one cheese that has good melting properties for that chewy layer on top.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This casserole is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble it the night before and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, you can add an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time since it will go into the oven cold.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also freeze portions of it; wrap them tightly in foil or use freezer-safe containers. It will hold well in the freezer for up to three months, making it a convenient option for quick meals even later.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious Shredded Chicken Enchilada Casserole:

For the Casserole

2 cups shredded cooked chicken
2 cups enchilada sauce
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups corn tortillas, cut into strips
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped and ready for assembly!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your casserole:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, black beans, cumin, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper.

Layer the Casserole

In a 9x13 inch baking dish, start by spreading a layer of the chicken mixture, followed by a layer of tortilla strips, and then a layer of cheese. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious casserole with your favorite toppings!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños to the mixture or on top before baking. You can also use tortilla chips for a crunchy topping instead of layering the tortillas.

Ingredient Variations

This casserole is highly adaptable, making it an excellent way to use up various ingredients you have on hand. If you don't have shredded chicken, diced rotisserie chicken or cooked ground turkey can easily be substituted. For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or skip the meat entirely and add more beans instead for protein.

You can also complement the recipe with additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just sauté them lightly before mixing with the chicken to ensure they don’t release too much moisture into the casserole as it bakes.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your casserole comes out too dry, it may be due to not enough sauce. Next time, consider adding a bit more enchilada sauce evenly throughout the layers. Keeping an eye on the baking time will also help; over-baking can lead to a dry texture. To achieve a golden, bubbly topping without risking dryness, use high heat during the last few minutes of baking by broiling on low for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

On the other hand, if you find your casserole too soupy, try using slightly less sauce or adding an extra layer of tortilla strips to absorb the moisture. Ensuring that you allow the casserole to rest before serving will help it firm up, making it easier to slice.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve your Shredded Chicken Enchilada Casserole with a light, refreshing side salad. A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lime vinaigrette pairs wonderfully; the acidity balances the richness of the casserole. You might also enjoy serving it with slices of avocado or a dollop of sour cream for a creamy contrast.

If you're looking to elevate the dish further, consider offering toppings such as sliced jalapeños, diced red onion, or a sprinkle of lime juice on top just before serving. These toppings not only enhance the presentation but add extra flavor and crunch that keep each bite exciting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even quicker and adds great flavor.

→ Is this dish freezable?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

→ What toppings can I add?

You can top your casserole with sour cream, avocado, or even some sliced green onions for added freshness.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the chicken with beans, lentils, or a variety of sautéed vegetables for a hearty vegetarian option.