Chicken Tortilla Casserole is one of those classic dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. If you’re looking for a cozy meal that’s easy to whip up, this casserole is a perfect choice. Imagine tender chicken layered with creamy goodness, zesty spices, and that irresistible melty cheese all wrapped in soft tortillas. You can practically hear the cheers from your family as it comes out of the oven! It’s comforting and satisfying, yet surprisingly simple to prepare. Plus, if you’ve got kids in the house, they’ll love it just as much. No need to worry about complicated cooking techniques here; it’s all about assembling deliciousness in one dish. With the rich flavors blending together and filling your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma, your family will agree that this is comfort food at its finest.
Why This Recipe Works
Chicken Tortilla Casserole is a comforting classic that combines tender chicken, flavorful spices, and gooey cheese, making it an irresistible dish. The homemade cream of celery soup acts as the rich foundation that binds all the ingredients together, bringing a depth of flavor that store-bought alternatives simply can’t match.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Tortilla Casserole
This Chicken Tortilla Casserole is incredibly easy to prepare and can be made in just one dish, making cleanup a breeze. The layers of corn tortillas, chicken, and cheese create a hearty meal that satisfies the entire family, and it’s versatile enough to allow ingredient variations to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 cup celery, finely diced (about 2-2.5 ribs)
- 1 cup onion, finely diced (about 1 small)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/3 cup sour cream (room temperature)
- 1 tsp salt (for the casserole)
- 20 corn tortillas (yellow or white, ripped into pieces)
- 4 cups shredded chicken (Rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 16 oz shredded Colby cheese
Preparing the Casserole Base
Sauté Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the finely diced onion and celery, sautéing them for about 8-10 minutes until they become translucent and softened. The aroma in your kitchen will be so inviting at this stage!
Incorporate Garlic and Seasonings
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, cumin, and oregano to enhance the flavors. This step adds warmth and depth to your casserole.
Create the Cream Sauce
Sprinkle the flour into the skillet, stirring for about 2-3 minutes. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and whole milk, bringing the mixture to a low boil until it thickens. Turn off the heat and stir in the room temperature sour cream. This creamy sauce is what makes your Chicken Tortilla Casserole stand out!
Layering the Casserole
Start with a Sauce Layer
Pour a bit of the thick cream sauce into the bottom of a 9×13 casserole dish, spreading it evenly. This layer sets the stage for all the deliciousness to come.
Add Tortillas
Place a layer of the ripped corn tortillas directly over the sauce, creating a comforting foundation for your casserole.
Add Shredded Chicken
Layer the shredded chicken evenly over the tortillas. This is where all that tender, juicy chicken goodness comes into play.
Cover with Cream Sauce
Drizzle a layer of the cream sauce over the chicken, ensuring to cover it completely. Each bite should be creamy and flavorful.
Add Cheese
Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded Colby cheese over the sauce. Can you already taste the melty cheese?
Repeat Layers
Continue layering the tortillas, chicken, cream sauce, and cheese until all ingredients are used, ending with a final layer of cheese on top. This ensures a spectacular cheesy crust that everyone will love.
Baking the Casserole
Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the casserole for 30-35 minutes, or until hot and bubbly. Patience will be your friend here, and the wait will be worth it!
Allow to Rest
Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. This resting period helps it set, ensuring better slices.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken Tortilla Casserole garnished with sour cream, avocado slices, cilantro, and diced green or red onion for added freshness and flavor. These little touches make all the difference!
Tips for Success
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: This will save time and add fantastic flavor.
- Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste preferences. Mixing it up keeps it interesting!
- Don’t Skip the Rest Time: Allowing the casserole to set ensures a better structure when serving. Trust me on this one!
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute shredded chicken with black beans or sautéed vegetables for a meatless delight.
- Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce for some heat if you like a kick!
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. It’s just as delicious the next day!
Pairing Ideas
Pair your Chicken Tortilla Casserole with a fresh side salad, Mexican rice, or refried beans for a complete meal. A light, crisp glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea also complements this dish beautifully.
FAQs
1. Can I make Chicken Tortilla Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance, cover it, and keep it in the refrigerator. Bake before serving; it’s a great time-saver!
2. Is it possible to freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze it before baking. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
3. What type of cheese can I use besides Colby?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend work well as alternatives, giving you options to play with.
4. How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
When the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden brown on top, and the center is hot, it’s ready.
5. Can I add additional veggies to the casserole?
Definitely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini would be great additions, offering extra nutrition and flavor.
This Chicken Tortilla Casserole combines the heartiness of a traditional Mexican dish with comforting elements that everyone loves. It is versatile enough for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings, always bringing warmth and satisfaction to the table. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and make it your family’s favorite!
Print
Chicken Tortilla Casserole
This Chicken Tortilla Casserole is a cozy meal that brings together tender chicken, zesty spices, and creamy cheese in a quick one-dish wonder. Perfect for family dinners!
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 cup celery, finely diced (about 2–2.5 ribs)
- 1 cup onion, finely diced (about 1 small)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/3 cup sour cream (room temperature)
- 1 tsp salt (for the casserole)
- 20 corn tortillas (yellow or white, ripped into pieces)
- 4 cups shredded chicken (Rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 16 oz shredded Colby cheese
Instructions
- Melt butter in a skillet and sauté onion and celery until soft.
- Add garlic and seasonings; cook briefly.
- Stir in flour, then gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk until thickened.
- Mix in sour cream.
- In a casserole dish, layer the cream sauce, corn tortillas, shredded chicken, more sauce, and cheese.
- Repeat layers, finishing with cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes until bubbly.
- Let rest before serving and garnish as desired.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor.
Feel free to adjust spices to suit your taste.
Allow resting time for better slices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Unsaturated Fat: 8
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 20
- Cholesterol: 60
