Shredded Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Name: Shredded Chicken Enchilada Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken; 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce; 8 corn tortillas; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and Monterey Jack mix); 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn (frozen or canned); 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Kitchen

I absolutely love making Shredded Chicken Enchilada Casserole for family gatherings and cozy nights in. The combination of tender, shredded chicken, flavorful enchilada sauce, and cheesy goodness creates a dish that is sure to please everyone. As someone who enjoys creating comforting meals, this casserole is a go-to because it's simple to whip together, feeds a crowd, and is bursting with flavor. Plus, it's a great way to use leftover chicken, making it both practical and delicious!

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2026-02-28T07:21:35.655Z

When I first tried making Shredded Chicken Enchilada Casserole, I was amazed at how easily everything came together. I started with store-bought rotisserie chicken, which not only saved time but infused the dish with rich flavor. The key to a perfect casserole is layering—starting with sauce, then chicken, tortillas, and cheese. This method not only ensures every bite is packed with flavor but also creates a wonderfully gooey texture.

One detail I absolutely love is adding black beans and corn for a pop of color and extra nutrients. Not only does it make the casserole more filling, but it also enhances the overall flavor profile. Trust me; this recipe is bound to become a family favorite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Layers of tender chicken and cheesy goodness
Quick preparation using rotisserie chicken
Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prep

Crafting Flavorful Layers

The foundation of a great Shredded Chicken Enchilada Casserole lies in its layers. Each component adds depth and richness to the dish. The combination of shredded rotisserie chicken with spices like cumin and chili powder not only enhances the flavor but also introduces complexity. I recommend using a rotisserie chicken for its convenience and robust flavor, which saves you time while providing a delicious base for your casserole. You'll notice that the spice blend wakes up the chicken, making every bite memorable.

Don’t be shy about layering! When you create a casserole, each layer builds upon the previous one. Ensure that you distribute the chicken mixture evenly across the tortillas to avoid dry spots. Visually, you want to see a nice, even mixture of ingredients peeking out as you slice through the cooked casserole. Also, using both cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese gives you that creamy, gooey texture that makes every bite satisfying. Feel free to adjust the cheese blend according to your preference for a different flavor profile.

Perfecting the Bake

Baking the casserole requires patience and attention to detail. When you first cover the casserole with foil, make sure it is tightly sealed to ensure the dish cooks evenly and the flavors meld together. After the first 20 minutes, removing the foil is crucial. This allows the cheese to melt and develop that desirable golden color. Keep an eye on it; you want the cheese to be bubbly but not burnt, so check it in the last few minutes to achieve the perfect finish.

If you decide to prepare this casserole in advance, it can be refrigerated before baking. Just be aware that if it comes straight from the fridge to the oven, it may require an additional 10-15 minutes of baking time. Alternatively, you can cover it and freeze it unbaked. Just allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge before baking for the best results. This flexibility makes the casserole perfect for meal prep, ensuring you have a delicious, homemade meal ready for busy nights.

Ingredients

Before you start making this delicious casserole, gather all your ingredients for an easy cooking experience.

Ingredients

2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
8 corn tortillas
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and Monterey Jack mix)
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Once you have all your ingredients ready, it's time to start layering!

Instructions

Let’s go through the steps to create this tasty casserole!

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking.

Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, and half of the enchilada sauce. Mix well.

Layer the Casserole

Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce in the baking dish. Layer half the tortillas over the sauce, then half the chicken mixture, and half of the cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of tortillas topped with the remaining enchilada sauce and cheese.

Bake

Cover the casserole 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.

Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, let it cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your delicious casserole!

Enjoy your meal with a side salad or some guacamole for a perfect dinner!

Pro Tips

To make this dish even heartier, consider adding sautéed bell peppers or diced tomatoes in the chicken mixture. You can also use different types of cheese if you prefer. For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or a hot salsa to the layers.

Ingredient Adjustments

While this recipe is delicious as-is, there are plenty of opportunities for swapping ingredients to suit dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, substitute corn tortillas with gluten-free tortillas or even thin slices of zucchini. Additionally, if you're looking to cut down on calories or fat, you can reduce the amount of cheese or use a low-fat cheese blend. Just be mindful that this might alter the creamy texture a bit, but it will still be tasty.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into the chicken mixture. You can also spice up the enchilada sauce by using a chipotle in adobo sauce for a smoky flavor profile. Experimenting with ingredients allows for a personalized casserole that meets your flavor preferences while keeping it enjoyable.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Shredded Chicken Enchilada Casserole, simplicity often shines. I love pairing it with fresh toppings for added texture and flavor. Sliced avocados, or a dollop of sour cream, can elevate each slice, making it feel more like a restaurant-quality dish. You could also serve it alongside a light salad with lime vinaigrette or some Mexican street corn for a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the casserole.

For leftovers, this casserole reheats beautifully in the oven. To maintain its moisture, cover it with foil while reheating and keep the temperature low at around 300°F (150°C) until warmed through. This ensures that the cheese doesn't dry out while allowing the flavors to come back to life. If you have leftover toppings, like cilantro or sour cream, sprinkle them on just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just bake when ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for chicken?

You can use cooked ground beef, turkey, or even a vegetarian option like mushrooms or lentils.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

Leftover casserole can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

→ Can I freeze the Shredded Chicken Enchilada Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.