Chicken Tortilla Casserole

A warm and hearty Chicken Tortilla Casserole is perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. This dish combines tender chicken, rich cheese, and the delightful crunch of corn tortillas all wrapped up in a creamy, flavorful sauce. Everyone loves a good casserole, and this one checks all the boxes: it’s easy to make, delicious, and satisfying. Plus, it’s great for leftovers, so you won’t mind making a little extra. As you layer each ingredient, you’re not just preparing a meal; you’re crafting a cozy experience perfect for any occasion. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get into the steps for this comforting dish!

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

Why This Recipe Works

The secret to a truly satisfying Chicken Tortilla Casserole lies in the layers of flavor and texture. By using homemade cream of celery soup, the casserole is enriched with a fresh taste that store-bought alternatives can’t match. The combination of tender chicken and gooey cheese, paired with the satisfying crunch of corn tortillas, creates a meal that is both comforting and hearty. Each layer melds beautifully during baking, making every bite a delightful experience.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Tortilla Casserole

This Chicken Tortilla Casserole isn’t just about convenience; it’s about creating a cozy family meal that’s packed with flavor. You can serve it on a busy weeknight or for a casual gathering with friends, and it caters to all. Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit various tastes and dietary preferences, making it a beloved staple in many kitchens across the USA.

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 or stock
• 1 1/2 cups milk (whole milk is recommended)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp oregano
• 1/3 cup sour cream (room temperature)
• 1 tsp salt (for casserole)
• 20 corn tortillas (yellow or white, ripped into pieces)
• 4 cups shredded chicken (preferably Rotisserie)
• 16 oz shredded Colby cheese

How to Make Chicken Tortilla Casserole

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’s hot and ready when it’s time to bake the casserole.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1/4 cup of butter. Once it’s melted, add the finely diced onion and celery. Sauté for about 8-10 minutes until they become translucent and softened. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen!

Add Garlic and Seasoning

Next, stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Season with 1 tsp of salt, 1/4 tsp of black pepper, 1 tsp of ground cumin, and 1/2 tsp of oregano. This blend really boosts the flavor.

Thicken the Sauce

Now, sprinkle in 1/4 cup of flour. Cook while stirring for 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in 1 1/2 cups of chicken broth and 1 1/2 cups of milk. Keep whisking until the mixture reaches a low boil and thickens up nicely. This creamy base is essential for the casserole.

Stir in Sour Cream

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1/3 cup of room-temperature sour cream until everything is combined well. This adds an extra creamy texture that you’ll love!

Layer the Casserole

Pour a bit of the thickened sauce into the bottom of a 9×13 casserole dish. Next, layer the ripped corn tortillas over the sauce. After that, add a layer of the shredded chicken.

Add More Sauce and Cheese

Cover the chicken completely with a layer of the cream sauce. Then, sprinkle a generous layer of shredded Colby cheese on top. This cheese will melt into gooey delight as it bakes.

Repeat Layers

Now, repeat the layering process. Toss down another layer of tortillas, followed by more chicken, sauce, and cheese. Keep going until you’ve used all your ingredients. Your final layer should be a rich topping of cheese to ensure it gets bubbly and golden.

Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in your preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until everything is hot and bubbly. The smell will be simply irresistible!

Let Rest Before Serving

Once baked, allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps everything set up nicely. For a finishing touch, consider garnishing with sour cream, avocado, cilantro, or green/red onion before serving.

Serving Suggestions

You can serve your Chicken Tortilla Casserole with a side of Mexican rice, fresh guacamole, or a simple green salad for a complete meal. Each bite brings comfort and satisfaction.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh ingredients, especially for the chicken and vegetables, to enhance the casserole’s flavor.
• Ensure to layer the ingredients evenly so every bite has balanced flavors.

Variations

Feel free to experiment with this recipe by swapping out the chicken for cooked ground beef or black beans if you’d like a vegetarian option. You can also try different cheese types like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for an exciting spicy twist.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store any extra in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To enjoy it again, reheat in the oven for the best results, or microwave for a quicker option.

FAQs

1. Can I make Chicken Tortilla Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

2. How do I make this dish spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for some extra heat.

3. Can I freeze Chicken Tortilla Casserole?
Absolutely! Just ensure it’s cooled completely before freezing. It can be stored for up to 3 months.

4. What can I substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt is a great substitute that maintains creaminess.

5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

This Chicken Tortilla Casserole is bound to become a cherished family favorite, bringing warmth and joy to every dinner table. With its comforting flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s a delicious choice for any occasion. Enjoy the layers of taste while creating wonderful memories with your loved ones gathered around the table.

Print