A comforting Mexican chicken enchilada casserole — shredded chicken layered with corn tortillas, enchilada sauce and melting Monterey Jack, baked until bubbling.
This chicken enchilada casserole is fuss-free comfort food — layers of tortilla, saucy shredded chicken and melting cheese baked into a bubbling, golden bake. With just a handful of ingredients, it delivers all the flavour of enchiladas with none of the rolling.
Prep 15 min
Cook 50 min
Total 65 min
Easy
- 14 oz jar Enchilada Sauce
- 3 Cups Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese
- 6 Corn Tortillas
- 2 Chicken Breasts
Tags:
Casserole Cheasy MeatVideo
Preparation
- Cut each chicken breast into about 3 pieces so it cooks faster and put in a small pot. Pour over the enchilada sauce and cook, covered, on low to medium heat until cooked through, about 20 minutes — no water needed, as the chicken cooks in the sauce, but stir occasionally so it doesn't stick.
- Remove the chicken and shred with two forks.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Spread about ¼ cup of the leftover sauce over the base of a baking dish. Place 2 tortillas on top, then a third of the chicken, a third of the remaining sauce, and a third of the cheese. Repeat with 2 more tortillas, chicken, sauce and cheese, then finish with a final layer of the remaining ingredients.
- Bake, uncovered, for 20 to 30 minutes, until bubbly and the cheese has melted and started to brown.
- Serve warm.
Tips from the ZestyPlate Kitchen
- Cook the chicken right in the enchilada sauce so it stays moist and flavourful.
- Spread a little sauce on the base so the bottom tortillas don't stick or dry out.
- Layer evenly so every serving gets chicken, sauce and cheese.
- Let it rest a few minutes after baking so it sets and slices more neatly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Corn tortillas are traditional and hold up well to the sauce, but flour tortillas work for a softer bake.
Yes — shredded cooked chicken is a great shortcut; just toss it with the sauce before layering.
Soured cream, avocado, fresh coriander, sliced jalapeños or a squeeze of lime all finish it beautifully.
