The Best Easy Chicken Enchilada Bake Recipe for Family Dinners

Comfort meets convenience in this mouthwatering chicken enchilada bake that promises to satisfy your dinner cravings.

Layers of tender chicken, melted cheese, and zesty sauce create a delightful meal you’ll want to devour.

The magic happens when simple ingredients transform into something extraordinary right before your eyes.

Weeknight dinners just got a whole lot more exciting with this no-fuss recipe.

Each bite delivers a perfect blend of spicy and creamy flavors that dance across your palate.

Mexican-inspired comfort food doesn’t get easier or more delicious than this simple casserole.

Grab a fork and get ready to experience a dish that’ll become your new go-to meal.

Easy Chicken Enchilada Bake Recipe Questions Answered

• What makes this chicken enchilada bake different from traditional enchiladas?

This recipe is a casserole-style version that’s much easier to prepare. Instead of rolling individual enchiladas, you’ll layer the ingredients, which saves time and reduces kitchen stress while delivering the same delicious Mexican-inspired flavors.

• Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a perfect shortcut that makes this dish even quicker to prepare. Simply shred the meat and mix it with the sauce and spices as the recipe describes.

• Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe has mild to moderate spice levels from chili powder and cumin. If you prefer less heat, you can reduce the amount of chili powder or use a mild enchilada sauce. For spice lovers, add some hot sauce or jalapeños to kick it up a notch.

• How can I make this dish healthier?

Use low-fat cheese, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and whole wheat tortillas. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to boost the nutritional value of the casserole.

What Makes Easy Chicken Enchilada Bake Recipe So Satisfying

• Whip Up Weeknight Wonder: This chicken enchilada bake transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal that comes together in under an hour, perfect for busy families craving delicious Mexican-inspired comfort food.
• Customize with Ease: The recipe offers incredible flexibility, allowing home cooks to swap proteins, adjust spice levels, or add extra vegetables, making it a versatile dish that adapts to different tastes and dietary preferences.
• Minimal Cleanup Champion: With just one baking dish and a few basic kitchen tools, this recipe minimizes kitchen mess and cleanup time, giving you more moments to enjoy a satisfying meal with loved ones.
• Budget-Friendly Crowd Pleaser: Using affordable ingredients like shredded chicken, tortillas, and pantry spices, this enchilada bake delivers maximum flavor without breaking the bank, making it an economical dinner solution for families and gatherings.

Everything You Need For Easy Chicken Enchilada Bake Recipe

• Shredded Chicken: The star of the dish, providing hearty protein and main flavor base. Choose rotisserie or home-cooked chicken for best taste and texture.

• Enchilada Sauce: Adds rich, traditional Mexican flavor to the dish. Red or green sauce works well.
• Chili Powder, Cumin, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Classic spice blend that gives depth and authenticity to the chicken mixture.
• Sour Cream: Provides creamy texture and tangy richness to the chicken mixture.

• Tortillas: Corn or flour tortillas create layers and structure for the casserole. Soft tortillas work best for easy cutting.
• Cheese: Melts and binds the casserole together. Monterey Jack or cheddar are perfect choices.
• Green Onions, Cilantro: Fresh herbs that add brightness and color to the finished dish.
• Optional Sides: Sour Cream, Guacamole, Salsa: Serve these on the side for extra flavor and customization.

How To Make Easy Chicken Enchilada Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Baking Dish

Grab a 9×13-inch baking pan and lightly coat it with cooking spray. Set your oven to warm up at 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Create Flavorful Chicken Mixture

• Shredded chicken
• Enchilada sauce
• Chili powder
• Ground cumin
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Sour cream

Stir everything until the chicken is completely coated with the spicy, creamy mixture.

Step 3: Build Delicious Layers

• Placing tortilla pieces as the first layer
• Adding half of the seasoned chicken mixture
• Sprinkling a generous amount of shredded cheese

Repeat these layers one more time, ending with a cheesy top.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and slide it into the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes. Look for bubbly, golden-brown cheese as your signal that it’s ready.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

• Additional sour cream
• Homemade guacamole
• Zesty salsa

Enjoy your mouthwatering Chicken Enchilada Casserole!

Helpful Tips For Easy Chicken Enchilada Bake Recipe

• Customize Spice Levels: Adjust chili powder and cumin quantities to match your heat preference, making the dish mild or zesty according to your taste buds.
• Cheese Variety Boost: Experiment with different cheese blends like pepper jack, monterey jack, or a Mexican cheese mix for enhanced flavor complexity.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the entire casserole in advance and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve, perfect for busy weeknight meals or meal prep.
• Protein Power Swap: Replace chicken with ground turkey, shredded beef, or black beans for diverse dietary needs and exciting variations of the classic recipe.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas and ensure enchilada sauce is gluten-free to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Smart Ways To Store Easy Chicken Enchilada Bake Recipe

• Safeguard your delicious chicken enchilada bake by cooling it completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent moisture loss and freezer burn.
• Freeze individual portions for convenient future meals, keeping them fresh for up to 2 months.
• Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of extra enchilada sauce to maintain moisture and restore the dish's original vibrant flavors.
• Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when reheating to guarantee food safety and enjoyment.

Perfect Pairings With Easy Chicken Enchilada Bake Recipe

• Pair with Zesty Margarita: Complement the enchilada bake's spicy flavors with a classic margarita made with fresh lime juice, tequila, and a salted rim. The cocktail's citrusy kick cuts through the rich, cheesy dish perfectly.
• Serve with Fresh Mexican Slaw: Create a light, crunchy coleslaw with shredded cabbage, lime juice, cilantro, and a touch of jalapeño. This refreshing side balances the warm, hearty casserole and adds a crisp texture contrast.
• Add Cool Avocado Crema: Blend ripe avocados with sour cream, lime juice, and a pinch of salt to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Drizzle over the enchilada bake to enhance its Mexican-inspired flavors and provide a cooling element.
• Enjoy with Crisp Mexican Lager: Grab a cold Corona or Modelo Especial to wash down the rich, spicy enchiladas. The light, refreshing beer cleanses the palate and provides a perfect complement to the dish's bold flavors.

Tasty Variations On Easy Chicken Enchilada Bake Recipe

• Spicy Southwest Fusion: Swap regular enchilada sauce with chipotle-based sauce, add diced jalapeños, and mix in black beans for extra heat and protein.
• Mediterranean Chicken Remix: Replace enchilada sauce with tomato and herb sauce, incorporate feta cheese, and sprinkle with oregano for a Mediterranean-inspired version.
• Green Chile Chicken Casserole: Use green chile enchilada sauce, add roasted green chiles, and mix in pepper jack cheese for a zesty, tangy flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Veggie Packed Option: Substitute tortillas with zucchini slices, add spinach and cauliflower rice, and use a lighter cheese like mozzarella for a healthier alternative.

Easy Chicken Enchilada Bake Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 14 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Creamy chicken enchilada bake brings Mexican comfort straight to dinner tables with layers of melted cheese and spicy goodness. Hearty ingredients and simple preparation promise a delicious meal you’ll crave again and again.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 3 cups (710 ml) cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
• ½ cup (120 ml) black beans (optional)
• ½ cup (120 ml) corn (optional)

Spices and Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder

Cheese, Sauce, and Additional Ingredients:

• 2 cups (480 ml) red enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
• 8 small corn tortillas (cut into quarters)
• 2 cups (480 ml) shredded Mexican blend cheese (or cheddar/Monterey Jack)
• ¼ cup (60 ml) chopped green onions (for garnish)
• ¼ cup (60 ml) chopped cilantro (for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the baking vessel by lightly coating a 9×13-inch dish with cooking spray and heat the oven to a toasty 375F (190C).
2. In a spacious mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken with zesty enchilada sauce, creating a vibrant mixture enhanced by chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and a creamy swirl of sour cream. Toss until each chicken morsel is thoroughly coated.
3. Create the first foundation layer by spreading a thin film of enchilada sauce across the bottom of the baking dish. Arrange a generous layer of torn tortilla pieces, ensuring complete coverage.
4. Distribute half of the seasoned chicken mixture evenly over the tortilla base, then generously sprinkle a blanket of shredded cheese to create a rich, melty landscape.
5. Repeat the layering process with another set of tortilla fragments, remaining chicken mixture, and a final cascade of cheese, building a delectable architectural structure.
6. Shield the casserole with aluminum foil and slide into the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and merge.
7. Remove the foil and return the dish to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, encouraging the cheese to transform into a golden, bubbling masterpiece.
8. After removing from the oven, allow the enchilada bake to rest and settle for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions and vibrant cilantro.
9. Serve immediately, accompanied by optional sides of cool sour cream, creamy guacamole, or zesty salsa to complement the warm, hearty dish.

Notes

• Customize the spice level by adjusting chili powder or adding hot sauce for heat-seekers who love a kick.
• Swap chicken for black beans or plant-based protein to create a vegetarian-friendly version that’s equally delicious and nutritious.
• Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option, ensuring those with dietary restrictions can enjoy this comforting meal without compromise.
• Prep ingredients ahead of time by shredding chicken and chopping garnishes in advance to streamline cooking and reduce stress during meal preparation.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg