green enchilada casserole recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best green enchilada casserole recipe

I’ve been making this green enchilada casserole recipe for years, and it’s still a family favorite. I first discovered it in a cookbook from the American Southwest, where the dish is a staple.

The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and tangy green sauce is irresistible. My kids love helping me assemble the layers, and my husband appreciates how easy it is to reheat for a quick dinner.

The best part? It’s incredibly healthy, with lean protein, fiber-rich veggies, and a generous helping of nutritious tortillas.

Plus, it’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or just need a reliable weeknight option, this recipe delivers.

I’ve tweaked it over the years to suit our tastes, but the core elements remain the same: tender chicken, flavorful sauce, and a satisfying crunch from the tortillas. It’s a true comfort food that never fails to satisfy.

I’ve even started experimenting with different variations – adding roasted vegetables or using alternative cheeses – but the original remains my go-to.

Green Enchilada Casserole

4.5 from 1615 votes

A delicious and comforting green enchilada casserole featuring layers of tortillas, cheese, and a rich green enchilada sauce. Perfect for a family dinner, this dish is easy to prepare and full of flavor.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Casserole

12 corn tortillas
1 lb shredded chicken
1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
1 onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
1 cup sour cream
1 cup chopped fresh cilantro

For the Green Enchilada Sauce

1 large onion, chopped
2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and chopped
2 cloves garlic
1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp salt
1 tsp dried oregano
1 can (4.5 oz) chopped green chiles
2 cups chicken broth
2 cups salsa verde

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F.
2In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
3Add onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño peppers.
4Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
5Add garlic, cumin, salt, and oregano to the skillet.
6Stir well and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
7Add chopped green chiles, cilantro, and chicken broth.
8Simmer for 10 minutes.
9Transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until smooth.
10Return the sauce to the skillet and stir in salsa verde.
11Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
12Set aside 1 cup of sauce for topping.
13In a separate skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
14Add the diced onions, garlic, and green chiles.
15Cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
16Add the shredded chicken and cook until heated through, about 5 minutes.
17Stir in sour cream and 1 cup of chopped cilantro.
18Remove from heat.
19Spread a thin layer of the green enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
20Layer half of the tortillas, half of the chicken mixture, and half of the shredded cheese.
21Repeat with the remaining tortillas, chicken mixture, and cheese.
22Pour the remaining sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
23Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
24Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
25Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
26Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Skillet
Baking dish
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 20g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 70mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier casserole, add more jalapeño peppers to the sauce. You can also use rotisserie chicken to save time on preparation.

Watch Video Of How Green Enchilada Casserole Works

This casserole is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re hosting guests or just need a quick weeknight meal. Its versatility makes it ideal for family gatherings or casual get-togethers.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily it can be reheated; simply cover it with foil and bake until hot through. For an added touch of elegance, serve with a dollop of sour cream or some fresh cilantro on top.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Green Enchilada Casserole

Q: What is green enchilada casserole?

This casserole is a twist on traditional Mexican enchiladas, adapted for an American audience with its use of chicken and tortillas.

Q: What are the key ingredients in this recipe?

The essential components include shredded chicken cooked in green sauce, layered with cheese and tortillas.

Q: How do you make green sauce?

To create this sauce, combine diced tomatillos with chopped onion, garlic, jalapeño peppers, cilantro leaves, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a blender or food processor.

Q: Can I substitute other types of meat or veggies in this recipe?

Sure! Feel free to experiment with different proteins like ground beef or pork or add extra vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers.

Q: What temperature should I cook this casserole at?

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for optimal results.

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