Ah, Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole! Just saying the name makes my mouth water! This dish has a special place in my heart because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up, making it a go-to for busy weeknights and cozy gatherings alike. Picture this: a bunch of friends gathered around, laughter filling the air, and the comforting aroma of cheese and green chilies wafting from the oven—absolute bliss!
I first discovered this gem of a recipe during a potluck dinner a few years ago. A lovely neighbor brought it over, and let me tell you, I couldn’t get enough. I ended up begging for the recipe, and since then, I’ve customized it to suit my taste. It’s become one of my family’s favorites, and I’m sure it’ll become a staple in your house too!
What’s in Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole?
– Cooked Chicken: The hero ingredient! I usually shred a rotisserie chicken for convenience, but any cooked chicken works perfectly.
– Green Enchilada Sauce: This sauce gives our casserole its beautiful flavor and moisture. I like to use a medium spice level to keep it balanced, but feel free to adjust!
– Diced Green Chilies: A little bit of heat and flavor without being overpowering. I opt for the canned version for easy accessibility.
– Sour Cream: Adds a creamy texture that perfectly complements the spiciness of the chilies. Who doesn’t love a touch of tang?
– Garlic Powder & Cumin: These spices lend a fabulous depth to the dish. Trust me; they make a world of difference.
– Corn Tortillas: These are the backbone of our casserole, soaking up all that delicious sauce and flavors.
– Shredded Cheese: Because cheese makes everything better! I usually go for a mix of Cheddar and Monterey Jack for a melty goodness.
– Green Onions & Fresh Cilantro: These are optional but highly recommended for garnish. They add a fresh pop of color and flavor.
Is Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole Good for You?
Well, it’s all about balance, right? This casserole brings some wonderful benefits:
Shredded Chicken: Packed with protein, it helps keep you satisfied. Just look for lean cuts to keep things healthy!
Green Chilies: These little gems are rich in vitamins and are known for their antioxidant properties.
Corn Tortillas: A gluten-free option that provides carbohydrates for energy, plus they’re lower in calories than traditional flour tortillas.
The main concerns? You’re working with cheese and sour cream, so watch your serving size if you’re observing your fat intake. You can also swap in Greek yogurt for sour cream for an even healthier twist.
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 can (10 oz) green enchilada sauce
– 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 8 corn tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack)
– 1 cup chopped green onions (optional for garnish)
– Fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)
– Salt and pepper to taste
*Serves: 6-8 people*
How to Make Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This lets the oven do the work while you prepare the delicious layers.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, green enchilada sauce, diced green chilies, sour cream, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined—you want these flavors to meld!
3. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the chicken mixture on the bottom. This helps prevent the tortillas from sticking.
4. Cut the corn tortillas in half and layer them over the chicken mixture. Feel free to overlap them slightly to ensure every bite gets a touch of that saucy goodness.
5. Spoon another layer of the chicken mixture over the tortillas, spreading it evenly.
6. Sprinkle about 1 cup of shredded cheese over the chicken mixture for that gooey layer we all love.
7. Repeat with the remaining tortillas, chicken mixture, and finish off with the remaining cheese on top. I mean more cheese is always the right idea!
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil (remember to spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking).
9. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Mmm, can you smell that?
10. Once done, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro for that fresh, vibrant finish!
Delicious Ideas for Serving
If you’re looking to elevate your casserole experience, serve it with a side of guacamole, crispy tortilla chips, or a simple salad. You can even pair it with some Mexican rice to soak up all that tasty sauce! Want to spice things up? Add sliced jalapeños for an extra kick!
I can’t wait for you to try this Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole! It’s one of those recipes that will definitely impress your friends and family, and who knows, it might just become your go-to too. Please let me know how it turns out for you. Happy cooking!
