Description
This creamy and cheesy casserole brings all the comforting flavors of chicken enchiladas in an easy layered bake. Tender shredded chicken is nestled between soft tortillas, smothered with a luscious sour cream and green chili sauce, and topped with gooey melted cheese. Perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or make-ahead meals, this dish is a satisfying Tex-Mex favorite without the fuss of rolling each enchilada individually.
Ingredients for Sour Cream Chicken Enchilada Casserole
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3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
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2 cups shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese (divided)
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1 cup sour cream
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1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
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1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
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1/2 cup chicken broth (or milk for creamier sauce)
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp onion powder
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1/2 tsp ground cumin
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8 small flour tortillas (or corn tortillas for a more authentic flavor)
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Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. -
Make the Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, cream of chicken soup, diced green chilies, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin. Mix until smooth. -
Layer the Casserole
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Spread 2–3 tablespoons of the sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
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Place a layer of tortillas (tear to fit as needed).
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Add half the shredded chicken, then spoon over some sauce and sprinkle with cheese.
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Repeat layers until ingredients are used up, finishing with sauce and remaining cheese on top.
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Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly. -
Serve
Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with salsa, avocado slices, or a side salad.
Notes
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Tortilla Choice: Flour tortillas give a soft, chewy texture, while corn tortillas add a slightly toasted, authentic taste.
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Chicken Shortcut: Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to cut prep time.
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Green Chili Swap: If you prefer less heat, use mild green chilies; for more spice, use jalapeños.
Tips
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Prevent Soggy Tortillas: Lightly toast tortillas in a dry skillet before layering to keep texture.
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Make Ahead: Assemble casserole a day before, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
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Freezer Friendly: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 350°F for about 50–60 minutes.
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Extra Creaminess: Add 4 oz cream cheese to the sauce for a richer flavor.
Servings
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Makes 6–8 servings
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings)
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Calories: ~370 kcal
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Protein: 21 g
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Carbohydrates: 25 g
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Fat: 21 g
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Saturated Fat: 10 g
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Fiber: 2 g
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Sodium: ~650 mg
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Sugar: 3 g
Benefits
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Protein-rich from chicken and cheese, keeping you full longer.
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Calcium boost from dairy for bone health.
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Customizable spice level to suit your taste.
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Family-friendly comfort food that’s easy to prepare.
Q&A
Q1: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes! Greek yogurt works well for a lighter version with more protein, though it will have a tangier flavor.
Q2: Can I make it without canned soup?
Absolutely. Substitute with 1 cup homemade white sauce (butter, flour, and milk) for a fresher taste.
Q3: How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes.
Q4: Can I add vegetables?
Yes, diced bell peppers, corn, or spinach blend in nicely for added nutrients and texture.
Q5: What sides go best with this dish?
Try it with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a crisp green salad.