Easy Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole Without Rolling
A quick and comforting Mexican-inspired casserole that layers shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, and cheese without the hassle of rolling tortillas. Perfect for busy weeknights and crowd-pleasing dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or cooked breasts/thighs)
- 1 cup enchilada sauce (red or green, store-bought)
- 4 oz softened cream cheese or sour cream
- 4–5 soft corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, diced avocado, lime juice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic for 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, sautéed onion and garlic, enchilada sauce, softened cream cheese, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Soften tortillas by warming each in a dry skillet for about 10 seconds per side or microwaving covered with a damp paper towel for 20-30 seconds.
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom.
- Layer 4-5 tortillas to cover the base, spread half the chicken mixture evenly over the tortillas, then sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheese over the chicken.
- Repeat layering with remaining tortillas, chicken mixture, and top with another 1 to 1 1/2 cups of cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, diced avocado, and a squeeze of lime juice if desired.
Notes
Soften tortillas before layering to prevent cracking. Use a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for best melt and flavor. Season chicken mixture well. Let casserole rest after baking for cleaner slices. For extra moisture, drizzle warm enchilada sauce when serving. Broil briefly if cheese needs more browning.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6th of ca
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 700
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 20
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 30
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