Chicken Enchilada Casserole with Sour Cream is a comforting and flavorful Tex-Mex dish that brings together shredded chicken, soft tortillas, savory enchilada sauce, melted cheese, and a creamy layer of sour cream. This casserole takes all the elements of classic enchiladas but simplifies the process by layering the ingredients in a baking dish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser because it combines tender chicken with the bold flavors of enchilada sauce, creamy sour cream, and gooey melted cheese. Each bite delivers a satisfying mix of textures and flavors, from the soft tortillas to the rich, savory filling. It’s a dish that’s both indulgent and easy to prepare, bringing a taste of Mexican-inspired cuisine to your table without the hassle of rolling individual enchiladas.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s comforting, easy to assemble, and packed with flavor. The combination of tender chicken, tangy sour cream, and melty cheese creates a rich, satisfying dish that feels indulgent yet homey. The casserole format makes it simple to prepare for a crowd, and leftovers taste just as good the next day.
This dish is versatile, allowing for customization with different types of cheese, vegetables, or even protein substitutions. It’s a recipe that satisfies cravings for Tex-Mex flavors while being approachable enough for everyday meals.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
Chicken Enchilada Casserole with Sour Cream is a must-try because it captures all the flavors of traditional enchiladas in a simple, layered format. It’s perfect for anyone who loves cheesy, saucy, and savory dishes. This casserole is great for meal prep, potlucks, or family dinners and is guaranteed to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
The combination of chicken, tortillas, sauce, and cheese makes this dish hearty and filling, while the sour cream adds a creamy contrast that balances the spice of the enchilada sauce. It’s comfort food at its finest.
Recipe Details
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican / Tex-Mex
Ingredients
For the Casserole
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached)
1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
6 small flour or corn tortillas
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
½ cup sour cream
½ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Cooking Directions Overview
- Sauté onions and garlic, then combine with chicken and seasonings.
- Layer tortillas, chicken mixture, enchilada sauce, sour cream, and cheese in a baking dish.
- Repeat layers until all ingredients are used.
- Bake the casserole until bubbly and golden on top.
- Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare Chicken Mixture
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Stir in shredded chicken, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined and heated through.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place two tortillas over the sauce. Spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas. Dollop half of the sour cream over the chicken mixture and spread evenly. Sprinkle a third of the shredded cheese on top. Repeat with the remaining tortillas, chicken mixture, sour cream, and cheese. Top with the remaining cheese.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
Step 5: Serve
Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
How to Serve
Serve the casserole hot with additional sour cream, salsa, or guacamole on the side. It pairs well with a simple green salad, Mexican rice, or black beans for a complete meal.
Recipe Tips
Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful option. Warm tortillas slightly before layering to make them easier to handle. Adjust the amount of enchilada sauce based on your preference for moisture and richness. For extra flavor, add diced green chilies or bell peppers to the chicken mixture.
Variations
Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
Vegetable Version: Include sautéed bell peppers, corn, or zucchini in the filling.
Cheese Variations: Mix in pepper Jack or queso fresco for different flavors.
Dairy-Free Version: Use vegan cheese and dairy-free sour cream.
Layering Alternative: Roll individual enchiladas instead of a layered casserole if preferred.
Freezing and Storage Time
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze the baked casserole in portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Special Equipment Needed
9×13-inch baking dish
Skillet or frying pan
Mixing spoon
Knife and cutting board
Measuring spoons
Conclusion
Chicken Enchilada Casserole with Sour Cream is a delicious, comforting, and versatile Tex-Mex dish that combines tender chicken, savory enchilada sauce, creamy sour cream, and melted cheese in a convenient casserole format. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd. With its bold flavors, rich textures, and customizable layers, this casserole is sure to become a favorite for both family and friends, offering the perfect balance of comfort and flavor in every bite.
Chicken Enchilada Casserole with Sour Cream
Description
Chicken Enchilada Casserole with Sour Cream is a comforting and flavorful Tex-Mex dish that brings together shredded chicken, soft tortillas, savory enchilada sauce, melted cheese, and a creamy layer of sour cream. This casserole takes all the elements of classic enchiladas but simplifies the process by layering the ingredients in a baking dish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Step 1: Preheat Oven : Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
-
Step 2: Prepare Chicken Mixture : Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Stir in shredded chicken, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined and heated through.
-
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole : Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place two tortillas over the sauce. Spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas. Dollop half of the sour cream over the chicken mixture and spread evenly. Sprinkle a third of the shredded cheese on top. Repeat with the remaining tortillas, chicken mixture, sour cream, and cheese. Top with the remaining cheese.
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Step 4: Bake the Casserole : Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
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Step 5: Serve : Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
