Name: Sour Cream Chicken Enchilada Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great); 1 (10 oz) can green enchilada sauce; 1 cup sour cream; 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 8 small corn or flour tortillas, cut into strips; 2 cups shredded Mexican-blend cheese (or cheddar & Monterey Jack); Fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish

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If you are craving a soul-warming dinner that perfectly balances creamy, cheesy, and vibrant Tex-Mex flavors, this Sour Cream Chicken Enchilada Casserole Recipe is a must-try. It boasts tender shredded chicken nestled between soft tortilla layers, all smothered in a luscious green enchilada sauce blended with sour cream and spices. Every bite delivers a comforting, cheesy deliciousness that feels like a warm hug after a long day. This casserole not only satisfies family appetites but also comes together quickly, making it a staple for busy weeknights or anytime you want to impress with minimal fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marbled surface with several clear glass bowls arranged on it. In the middle, there is a bowl filled with shredded cooked chicken, light beige in color with soft texture. To the top left, a stack of white tortillas sits neatly. On the right side, a bowl is filled with shredded yellow cheese, finely grated and fluffy. Above the chicken bowl, there is a small bowl holding cooked corn kernels, yellow with some brown spots. At the bottom left, a bowl contains a thick creamy sauce with a smooth texture in a light beige color. On the right side of the image, a striped cloth napkin is partially visible with a wooden spoon resting on it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this recipe lies in its simple yet perfectly balanced ingredients that work together to create incredible flavor and texture. Each component adds something special, whether it’s the tender chicken, the tangy sour cream sauce, or the melty cheese topping.

3 cups cooked shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for juicy, flavorful meat without extra work.
1 (10 oz) can green enchilada sauce: This sauce provides a zesty, slightly tangy base that brightens the entire dish.
1 cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and a subtle tang that balances the spices beautifully.
1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles: Brings mild heat and a pop of color for extra Tex-Mex authenticity.
1 teaspoon ground cumin: A warm earthiness that deepens the savory flavor profile.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a mild garlicky aroma without overpowering the dish.
½ teaspoon onion powder: Compliments the garlic with sweet-savory undertones.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential to bring all the flavors together perfectly.
8 small corn or flour tortillas, cut into strips: Soft layers that soak up the sauce and hold the casserole together.
2 cups shredded Mexican-blend cheese (or cheddar & Monterey Jack): Melts to gooey perfection, adding richness and a golden crust.
Fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish: A fresh finish that brightens each serving.

How to Make Sour Cream Chicken Enchilada Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and will come out clean and beautiful once baked.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Sauce Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the green enchilada sauce, sour cream, diced green chiles, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until fully blended and smooth. This creamy sauce forms the heart of your casserole’s flavor and texture.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

Start by spreading a thin layer of the sauce mixture on the bottom of your greased baking dish. Next, scatter a layer of the tortilla strips evenly over the sauce. Then add half of the shredded chicken on top, followed by spooning half of the sauce mixture over the chicken. Finish this first set with a generous sprinkle of 1 cup shredded cheese.

Step 4: Repeat the Layers

Repeat the layering process once more with tortillas, the remaining chicken, sauce, and cheese. This double layer build-up creates a wonderfully balanced structure and flavor distribution throughout the casserole.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a slightly golden crust on top. Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to set and the casserole to firm up for easy slicing.

How to Serve Sour Cream Chicken Enchilada Casserole Recipe

A white rectangular baking dish filled with a thick casserole that has three visible layers: the bottom layer appears soft and light beige, likely a creamy filling, the middle layer seems to have shredded pieces mixed into the filling, and the top layer is covered in melted bright orange cheese with small green herb bits scattered on top. A piece is missing from one side, showing creamy inner texture with strands of cheese stretching slightly. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or sliced green onions work beautifully as garnishes. They add a lovely burst of color and fresh, bright flavor that balances the richness of the casserole.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with classic Tex-Mex sides such as cilantro lime rice, refried beans, or a crisp simple salad with a zingy vinaigrette. These add refreshing contrast and extra texture to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or potluck, serve the casserole buffet-style in individual ramekins or mini skillets to impress your guests. You can also jazz it up with some sliced avocado, a squeeze of lime, or a dollop of guacamole for extra indulgence.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers from your Sour Cream Chicken Enchilada Casserole Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes a perfect next-day lunch or easy dinner option.

Freezing

This casserole also freezes well. Wrap it tightly with foil and plastic wrap or transfer into a freezer-safe container, then freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through to retain the texture and melted cheesy topping. For quicker results, use a microwave on medium heat, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use red enchilada sauce instead of green?

Absolutely! Red enchilada sauce offers a different flavor profile with deeper, slightly smoky notes. Feel free to swap the green sauce for red in this Sour Cream Chicken Enchilada Casserole Recipe to suit your taste preferences.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas, this dish can be enjoyed gluten-free. Just be sure to check your sauce and seasonings to confirm they don’t contain gluten.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Definitely! Black beans, corn, or diced bell peppers add extra texture, nutrition, and color. Simply mix them into the shredded chicken layer before assembling to customize your casserole.

What cheese works best for this recipe?

A Mexican cheese blend that includes cheddar and Monterey Jack melts beautifully and adds great flavor. You can also use just cheddar or pepper jack if you want a bit of a spicy kick.

How spicy is this casserole?

This version is mild and family-friendly, thanks to the mild green chiles and creamy sour cream. You can easily adjust the heat by adding jalapeños or using hot enchilada sauce if you prefer more spice.

Final Thoughts

There is something incredibly comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole packed with classic Tex-Mex flavors. I encourage you to try this Sour Cream Chicken Enchilada Casserole Recipe because it’s not only delicious and satisfying but also wonderfully easy to make. It’s a family favorite that brings people together around the table and keeps you coming back for seconds. Give it a go and watch it become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!

Sour Cream Chicken Enchilada Casserole Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need