Shredded Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Name: Shredded Chicken Enchilada Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken; 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained; 2 cups corn tortillas, cut into strips; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup diced onions; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Food Favorites

I absolutely love this Shredded Chicken Enchilada Casserole! It combines tender chicken with a rich, flavorful sauce and layers of cheese that melt beautifully in the oven. As someone who enjoys quick and satisfying meals, I can make this casserole in no time, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s great for feeding a crowd, and you can customize it with your favorite toppings. Trust me, once you try it, you'll want to make it a regular in your meal rotation.

Created by

Beatrice Holloway

Last updated on 2026-02-27T16:53:35.196Z

When I first made this Shredded Chicken Enchilada Casserole, I was amazed at how easy it was to throw together. I’ve tried many recipes, but the trick here is using rotisserie chicken to save time without compromising flavor. Simply shred the chicken and mix it with enchilada sauce for that rich, authentic taste.

I also discovered that layering the ingredients properly really enhances the dish's texture. Adding a layer of cheese in the middle keeps everything creamy and cheesy. This small tip elevates the casserole from good to extraordinary!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bursting with zesty flavors from enchilada sauce and spices
Creamy texture that's perfectly balanced with cheesy goodness
Convenient one-dish meal, perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep

Understanding the Ingredients

The star ingredient of this Shredded Chicken Enchilada Casserole is undoubtedly the chicken. Using shredded rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also infuses the dish with rich flavor. If you prefer, you can also use cooked chicken breast or thighs and shred them yourself, which allows for a bit more control over seasoning, especially if you want to keep it salt-conscious.

The combination of black beans and corn tortillas adds a delightful texture contrast. Black beans are not just a source of protein but also bring a creamy element that complements the cheese. Substituting with pinto beans can lend a different taste, but the black beans offer a slightly firmer bite, which is great for this layered casserole.

Layering Techniques

When layering your casserole, it's crucial to ensure that the tortilla strips are evenly distributed. This helps them absorb the enchilada sauce without becoming soggy. You might even consider lightly toasting the tortilla strips in a dry skillet for a couple of minutes first; this can provide added texture and resilience during baking.

As you assemble the layers, don’t skimp on the cheese! Each layer should have a generous amount to encourage that beautiful, gooey top. If you're looking for a healthier twist, you can use a blend of low-fat cheese options, but keep in mind that some of the melting qualities may be lost.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you begin for a smoother cooking experience:

Ingredients

2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
2 cups corn tortillas, cut into strips
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup diced onions
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are measured and ready to go to make the assembly quick!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious casserole:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the mixture

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, black beans, diced onions, cumin, and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Layer the casserole

In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the tortilla strips, then half of the chicken mixture, followed by a layer of cheese. Repeat the process with remaining ingredients.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Garnish and serve

Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh cilantro. Cut into squares and serve warm.

Enjoy the delicious flavors of your homemade casserole!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, add some diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture or serve with hot sauce on the side.

Make-Ahead Tips

This casserole can be prepared a day in advance, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights. Simply assemble the layers in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, allow the casserole to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before popping it in the oven to ensure even cooking.

If you wish to freeze it, assemble the casserole but avoid the final baking step. Wrap tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container, and it can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as usual, extending the cooking time by 10-15 minutes.

Serving and Variations

This Shredded Chicken Enchilada Casserole is versatile! Serve it with a side of fresh guacamole and tortilla chips for a delightful crunch. You can also top it with sliced jalapeños or a dollop of sour cream for an added kick. For extra freshness, a sprinkle of lime juice over the entire dish before serving brightens the flavors beautifully.

Don’t hesitate to mix in or top with other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for an even heartier dish. Incorporating these additions can enhance not only flavor but also nutritional value, making this casserole even more satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with shredded beef or turkey, or even black beans for a vegetarian option.

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.

→ What can I serve with the casserole?

Consider serving it with a side salad, guacamole, or sour cream for added flavor.

→ Is there a gluten-free option?

Yes! Use corn tortillas that are labeled gluten-free to make this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.