Chicken Tortilla Casserole
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the mark quite like Chicken Tortilla Casserole. Bursting with flavor and texture, this crowd-pleaser combines layers of tender shredded chicken, savory enchilada sauce, and gooey melted cheese, all nestled between soft flour tortillas. Whether you’re feeding the family on a busy weeknight or hosting a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s easy to customize, making it a versatile option for any occasion. Let’s dive into why this Chicken Tortilla Casserole should be a staple in your recipe repertoire.
Why You’ll Keep Making It
There are countless reasons to love Chicken Tortilla Casserole. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With just a bit of assembly and a short bake time, you can have a hearty meal ready in under an hour. The combination of flavors is delightful, with the spicy notes of the taco seasoning perfectly complementing the richness of the cheese and the freshness of the cilantro.
Moreover, you can easily adapt the recipe to your dietary needs or preferences. Want to go lighter? Try a Low Carb Chicken Casserole version by swapping flour tortillas for zucchini slices. Craving something crispy? Top it with crushed tortilla chips or even some Cornflake Chicken for an extra crunch.
This dish is not only filling but also makes for fantastic leftovers, tasting even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
What to Buy
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:
- 1 pound shredded cooked chicken
- 15 ounces red enchilada sauce (divided)
- 1 ounce taco seasoning
- 1 cup chopped cilantro
- 18 (6-inch) flour tortillas
- 3 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (divided)
- Chopped tomatoes, for garnish
- Sliced avocado, for garnish
- Crumbled Cotija cheese, for garnish
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Make sure to choose high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh cilantro, ripe tomatoes, and creamy avocado will elevate your Chicken Tortilla Casserole to new heights.
Kitchen Gear Checklist
Before you get started, gather the necessary kitchen tools:
- 9×13-inch baking dish: Perfect size for layering your casserole.
- Mixing bowl: For combining chicken, enchilada sauce, and seasonings.
- Spatula: For spreading the filling evenly.
- Knife and cutting board: To chop your fresh ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accuracy in your measurements.
Having everything prepped and organized will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Chicken Tortilla Casserole: From Prep to Plate
Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s walk through the steps to create this delicious Chicken Tortilla Casserole.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, 1 cup of the red enchilada sauce, taco seasoning, and chopped cilantro. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Spread a thin layer of the remaining red enchilada sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Lay down 6 of the flour tortillas, overlapping them slightly to cover the bottom.
Next, spoon half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas, followed by 1 cup of shredded Mexican cheese. Repeat this layering process with another set of tortillas, the remaining chicken mixture, and another 1 cup of cheese.
Finally, top the casserole with the last 6 tortillas and the remaining 1 cup of cheese.
Step 4: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in your preheated oven for 20 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Then, garnish with chopped tomatoes, sliced avocado, crumbled Cotija cheese, and fresh cilantro. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors of your Chicken Tortilla Casserole!
Better-for-You Options
If you’re looking to make your Chicken Tortilla Casserole a bit lighter or healthier, consider these options:
- Whole wheat tortillas: Swap out regular flour tortillas for whole wheat for added fiber.
- Low-fat cheese: Use low-fat shredded cheese to reduce calories and fat.
- Vegetable additions: Add sautéed bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
- Brown rice or quinoa: Layer in cooked brown rice or quinoa for added texture and health benefits.
These small changes can make a big difference without sacrificing flavor.
Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste. Chicken Tortilla Casserole can easily be made with leftover turkey or even a mix of different proteins. Experiment with various cheese blends or spice levels by adjusting the taco seasoning.
- For a vegetarian version, consider using black beans or lentils in place of chicken.
- If you love heat, add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce between the layers.
- Make sure to let the casserole rest before serving; this will help it set and make serving easier.
Save It for Later
If you have leftovers (which is likely!), Chicken Tortilla Casserole stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave, or cover the entire casserole with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
- You can also freeze the casserole before baking it. Just cover it tightly with foil and it can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
Reader Q&A
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and adds great flavor to your casserole. Just shred the meat and mix it into the filling.
What can I serve with Chicken Tortilla Casserole?
This dish pairs nicely with a simple side salad, Mexican rice, or refried beans. You could also serve it with tortilla chips and salsa for a fun twist.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and keep it covered in the fridge for a day before baking. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if it’s coming straight from the refrigerator.
Is this casserole spicy?
The level of spiciness can be adjusted based on the taco seasoning you use and whether you add any jalapeños or hot sauce. If you’re sensitive to spice, choose a mild taco seasoning.
If you enjoyed this Chicken Tortilla Casserole, here are some more recipes to try:
Ready, Set, Cook
Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to create a delicious Chicken Tortilla Casserole that will become a family favorite. With its layers of flavor and comforting textures, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor every bite!
Chicken Tortilla Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, 1 cup of the red enchilada sauce, taco seasoning, and chopped cilantro. Stir until everything is well mixed.
- Step 3: Assemble the Casserole: Spread a thin layer of the remaining red enchilada sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Lay down 6 of the flour tortillas, overlapping them slightly to cover the bottom. Next, spoon half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas, followed by 1 cup of shredded Mexican cheese. Repeat this layering process with another set of tortillas, the remaining chicken mixture, and another 1 cup of cheese. Finally, top the casserole with the last 6 tortillas and the remaining 1 cup of cheese.
- Step 4: Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in your preheated oven for 20 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Step 5: Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Then, garnish with chopped tomatoes, sliced avocado, crumbled Cotija cheese, and fresh cilantro. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors of your Chicken Tortilla Casserole!
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, consider using black beans or lentils in place of chicken.
- If you love heat, add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce between the layers.
- Make sure to let the casserole rest before serving; this will help it set and make serving easier.
