Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Green Chile Chicken Enchilada Casserole is a layered Mexican-inspired dish that combines the flavors of green chiles, chicken, cheese, and tortillas, all baked together in a creamy, spicy sauce. It simplifies the traditional process of making individual enchiladas by creating a casserole, making it a quicker and easier option for a delicious, comforting meal.

Key Components:

Shredded Chicken: Provides the protein base. Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option.
Green Enchilada Sauce: Adds a tangy, mildly spicy flavor. You can use store-bought or homemade.
Diced Green Chiles: Enhances the dish with an extra layer of green chile flavor.
Sour Cream: Contributes to the creaminess of the casserole.
Shredded Cheese: A cheesy topping that melts and browns nicely in the oven.
Corn Tortillas: Serve as the layers between the filling, similar to a lasagna.

Benefits:

Quick and Easy: Compared to making individual enchiladas, this casserole is faster to assemble.
Great for Leftovers: Perfect for meal prep or making ahead and reheating.
Customizable: You can adjust the spiciness, add different vegetables, or use different types of cheese.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 2 cups green enchilada sauce
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
• 12 corn tortillas
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare Sauce:

   • In a medium bowl, mix together the green enchilada sauce, diced green chiles, and sour cream.

3. Layer the Casserole:

   • Spread a thin layer of the sauce mixture on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
   • Place 4 corn tortillas over the sauce, overlapping as needed.
   • Spread half of the shredded chicken over the tortillas.
   • Pour 1/3 of the sauce mixture over the chicken.
   • Sprinkle 1/3 of the shredded cheese over the sauce.
   • Repeat the layers: 4 tortillas, remaining chicken, 1/3 of the sauce, and 1/3 of the cheese.
   • Finish with a final layer of tortillas, the remaining sauce, and the remaining cheese.

4. Bake:

   • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Garnish and Serve:

   • Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing.
   • Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
   • Serve with additional sour cream, salsa, or guacamole on the side.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with additional toppings like chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, extra sour cream, or salsa.
• Pair with a side salad, rice, or beans for a complete meal.