Green Chile Chicken Casserole – Easy & Cheesy Comfort Food
Green Chile Chicken Casserole is a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that brings together shredded chicken, creamy sauce, green chiles, and cheese—all layered or mixed with tortillas. It’s the kind of hearty, weeknight dinner that satisfies cravings for both Tex-Mex and comfort food, all in one baking dish.
History and Origins
The origins of green chile chicken casserole lie in the rich culinary traditions of the American Southwest, particularly New Mexico and Texas. Green chiles—especially Hatch chiles—are a staple ingredient in Southwestern cuisine and are celebrated for their mild heat and smoky flavor. The casserole format became popular in the mid-20th century as a convenient way to repurpose ingredients into a complete meal, making it a staple in potlucks and family dinners. This dish reflects a beautiful fusion of indigenous, Mexican, and American home-cooking influences.
Green Chile Chicken Casserole Recipe
This cheesy, creamy casserole is simple to prepare and packs bold, comforting flavors in every bite.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked shredded chicken | 3 cups |
| Green chiles (canned, diced) | 2 cans (4 oz each) |
| Cream of chicken soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) |
| Sour cream | 1 cup |
| Corn tortillas (or flour) | 8–10 |
| Shredded Mexican blend cheese | 2 cups |
| Onion (chopped, optional) | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Cumin | 1/2 tsp |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste |
| Fresh cilantro (for garnish) | Optional |
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 410 kcal |
| Protein | 27g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Saturated Fat | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Sodium | 720mg |
| Calcium | 20% DV |
| Iron | 8% DV |
Instructions
: Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
: Prepare the Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, green chiles, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
3: Layer the Casserole
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half the tortillas on the bottom (cut to fit if needed).
- Spoon half the chicken mixture over the tortillas and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheese.
- Repeat the layers: tortillas, chicken mixture, and remaining cheese on top.
4: Bake
- Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
5: Serve
- Let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve warm.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap the unbaked casserole tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and bake as directed.
- Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm in the oven at 300°F until heated through.
Additional Information
- Make it Spicier: Add jalapeños or use hot green chiles.
- Low-Carb Option: Use low-carb tortillas or layer with zucchini slices instead.
- Add Veggies: Try adding corn, black beans, or sautéed spinach for extra nutrition.
- Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with ground turkey or shredded pork for variety.
Advantages
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to prepare | Contains processed ingredients |
| Crowd-pleaser | High in sodium |
| Freezer-friendly | Not vegan-friendly |
| Customizable with various add-ins | May be heavy for low-fat diets |
| Great use for leftover chicken | Requires baking time |
FAQs
Yes! Rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe and saves time.
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Yes. You can make a homemade cream of chicken substitute using butter, flour, broth, and milk.
A Mexican blend is ideal, but Monterey Jack, cheddar, or pepper jack work well too.
It can be! Use gluten-free tortillas and a certified gluten-free cream of chicken soup.
Conclusion
Green Chile Chicken Casserole is a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. With its creamy sauce, bold chiles, and melty cheese, this dish brings the spirit of Southwestern cuisine into your kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping meals ahead, this casserole delivers warmth, comfort, and delicious simplicity in every bite.
