Introduction

Sour Cream Chicken Enchilada Casserole is a rich, creamy, and comforting dish that brings the flavors of classic Mexican enchiladas into an easy-to-make casserole. This dish is a great option for a family dinner or a potluck because it’s easy to prepare, can be made in advance, and offers a fantastic balance of flavors with the creamy sour cream, tender chicken, and melty cheese. It’s a twist on traditional enchiladas, combining all the delicious elements of the dish into one simple casserole that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 4 cups diced cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 8 oz. (1 cup) sour cream
• 2/3 cup milk
• 1 (4 oz.) can diced green chiles
• 2 Tbsp. dried minced onion
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• Pepper to taste
• 12 corn tortillas
• 2-3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Spray a 13×9 inch baking dish with cooking spray. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Make the sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, diced green chiles, dried minced onion, garlic powder, and pepper. Stir well until fully mixed.
3. Layer the casserole: Place 6 corn tortillas on the bottom of the prepared 13×9 inch baking dish, overlapping them as needed to cover the base.
4. Add chicken and sauce: Sprinkle 3 cups of the diced chicken evenly over the tortillas. Pour 1/2 of the sauce mixture over the chicken and spread it out to cover.
5. Add cheese: Sprinkle 1/2 of the shredded cheddar cheese over the sauce.
6. Repeat layers: Repeat the layering process with the remaining tortillas, chicken, sauce, and cheese.
7. Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the dish is hot, bubbly, and the cheese is melted and golden.
8. Rest: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it stand for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.

History

The origin of the Enchilada casserole dates back to the early 20th century when traditional Mexican dishes began to gain popularity in the United States. The classic enchilada, which is made with tortillas, meat, cheese, and sauce, was adapted into the casserole form for easier preparation and to serve larger groups. Sour Cream Chicken Enchilada Casserole, specifically, offers a creamy twist on the original, with the addition of sour cream making the dish richer and smoother. The dish has since become a staple in many households, loved for its comforting flavors and simple preparation.

Benefits

Sour Cream Chicken Enchilada Casserole is not only a delicious comfort food, but it also provides several nutritional benefits. The chicken provides a good source of lean protein, while the sour cream adds calcium and healthy fats. The dish is also customizable—using whole grain tortillas, reducing the amount of cheese, or incorporating vegetables can make it a bit lighter while maintaining its delicious flavor. The casserole is an excellent option for those looking for a hearty meal that can feed a crowd.

Nutrition

Each serving of Sour Cream Chicken Enchilada Casserole is packed with protein, calcium, and essential vitamins. The exact nutritional breakdown will depend on the specific ingredients used, but on average, a serving of this casserole contains:

• Calories: 400-500
• Protein: 30-40 grams
• Fat: 20-30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams
• Fiber: 3-5 grams
• Sodium: 600-800 mg

This casserole can be a filling meal that provides a balanced ratio of macronutrients. For those looking to reduce calories or fat, consider using low-fat sour cream or reduced-fat cheese.

Conclusion

Sour Cream Chicken Enchilada Casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines rich flavors, creamy textures, and the comfort of a traditional Mexican meal in one easy-to-make casserole. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or any time you’re craving a warm, satisfying meal. With its layers of chicken, cheese, tortillas, and a creamy sauce, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. Make it ahead of time, and it’s even easier to enjoy on a busy weeknight. Don’t lose this recipe!