Let me tell you about my absolute favorite dish for family dinners: the heavenly creamy chicken enchilada casserole! It’s one of those meals that’s so easy to whip up but tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. Trust me, the moment you pull this cheesy, bubbly casserole out of the oven, you’ll be greeted with heavenly aromas that will make everyone gather around the table. With layers of tender chicken, creamy goodness, and a spicy kick from the enchilada sauce, this dish is packed with flavor and comfort. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, it’s a surefire hit that will leave you and your loved ones smiling and satisfied. You’re definitely going to want to make this again and again!
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to create that heavenly creamy chicken enchilada casserole. Make sure to gather these ingredients before you start cooking to keep things smooth and fun!
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 can (10 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp cumin
These ingredients come together to create a rich and creamy casserole that’s just bursting with flavor. Feel free to get creative with the cheese or add some spices if you want to kick it up a notch!
How to Prepare Instructions
Alright, let’s dive into making this heavenly creamy chicken enchilada casserole! First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot by the time we’re ready to bake. While that’s warming up, grab a large bowl and combine your cooked shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and half of that delicious cheddar cheese. Give it a good mix until everything is well blended. Oh, it smells so good already!
Now, in a separate bowl, mix together the enchilada sauce, diced onions, bell peppers, garlic powder, and cumin. This is where the flavor magic happens, folks! Take a greased baking dish and layer 4 corn tortillas at the bottom. Then, spread half of your chicken mixture over those tortillas. Next, pour half of that flavorful enchilada sauce mixture over the chicken. It’s like a flavor explosion!
Repeat those layers: place the remaining tortillas, chicken mixture, and sauce on top. You’re almost there! Finally, sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese on the very top, because who doesn’t love extra cheese? Now pop that beauty into the oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden brown. Once it’s out, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Trust me, it’ll be worth the wait!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of this heavenly creamy chicken enchilada casserole! Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portions. Each serving, which is roughly one-sixth of the casserole, contains about 450 calories. You’ll find 25 grams of fat, with 10 grams of that being saturated fat. There’s also 30 grams of carbohydrates and 3 grams of fiber, making it a satisfying meal. Plus, you’ll be getting around 30 grams of protein per serving! It’s a hearty dish that balances comfort and nutrition beautifully.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to fall in love with this heavenly creamy chicken enchilada casserole! Here are just a few:
- Easy to prepare: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have this dish ready in no time!
- Flavor-packed: The combination of creamy chicken, zesty enchilada sauce, and melty cheese creates an explosion of taste that’s simply irresistible.
- Versatile: You can switch up the proteins or veggies based on what you have on hand, making it perfect for any occasion.
- Make-ahead friendly: Prep it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat, saving you time and stress during busy nights.
- Family-approved: This dish is always a hit with both kids and adults, making it a go-to for family dinners.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why this casserole is a staple in my kitchen!
Tips for Success
To make your heavenly creamy chicken enchilada casserole truly shine, here are some pro tips! First, if you’re short on time, using rotisserie chicken is a game changer—it saves you prep time without sacrificing flavor! If you like a bit of heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder for an extra kick. Don’t forget to let your casserole rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps it set up nicely and makes serving a breeze. Lastly, feel free to mix up the cheese—pepper jack or Monterey Jack adds a delicious twist. Happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to switch up your heavenly creamy chicken enchilada casserole! For starters, try using shredded beef or even ground turkey instead of chicken for a different protein twist. You can also add black beans or corn for an extra dose of veggies and texture. If you want to spice things up, consider swapping the enchilada sauce for a green tomatillo sauce, which gives a fresh, tangy flavor. And don’t forget about spices! A dash of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of taco seasoning can elevate the taste to new heights. The possibilities are endless!
Serving Suggestions
To make your meal even more delightful, consider serving your heavenly creamy chicken enchilada casserole with some tasty sides! A fresh green salad with crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lime vinaigrette pairs beautifully, adding a refreshing crunch. You could also whip up some Mexican rice or cilantro-lime rice for a hearty side that complements the flavors of the casserole. If you’re in the mood for something extra, some warm, homemade tortilla chips with guacamole or salsa can take your dinner to the next level. And for drinks, a cool glass of horchata or a classic margarita would be the perfect match. Enjoy every bite!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you find yourself with leftovers of this heavenly creamy chicken enchilada casserole (which is always a win!), storing it properly is key to keeping it delicious. Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the casserole with foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s heated through and bubbly. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to keep the moisture in. Enjoy those tasty leftovers!
FAQ Section
Can I make this heavenly creamy chicken enchilada casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, pop it in the oven straight from the fridge, and you might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for the chicken?
If you’re looking to mix things up, shredded beef, ground turkey, or even black beans for a vegetarian option work wonderfully! Just remember to adjust the cooking time if you’re using something that requires longer cooking.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can! Once cooled, transfer the casserole to an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How spicy is the enchilada sauce?
The spice level can vary by brand, but if you prefer a milder dish, look for a mild enchilada sauce or use less of it. You can always add hot sauce on the side for those who like it spicy!
Can I use low-fat ingredients?
Yes, feel free to swap out for low-fat versions of sour cream, cheese, and soup. Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different, but it’ll still be delicious!
Heavenly Creamy Chicken Enchilada Casserole to Savor Now
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and creamy chicken enchilada casserole that is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 can (10 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp cumin
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and half of the cheese.
- In a separate bowl, mix enchilada sauce, onions, bell peppers, garlic powder, and cumin.
- Layer 4 tortillas at the bottom of a greased baking dish.
- Spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas.
- Pour half of the enchilada sauce mixture over the chicken.
- Repeat layers with remaining tortillas, chicken mixture, and sauce.
- Top with remaining cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Add jalapeños for extra heat.
- Serve with fresh cilantro on top.
- Can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: chicken enchilada casserole, creamy enchiladas, Mexican casserole
