Chili-Spiced Chicken Enchiladas

Easy and Delicious Red Chili Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

Looking for a dinner that’s both satisfying and simple to make? These Red Chili Chicken Enchiladas are the answer! Packed with bold flavors, tender shredded chicken, and plenty of melted cheese, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Forget complicated dinners and hello to this surprisingly easy, Mexican-inspired casserole that will become a staple in your kitchen. If you’re a fan of dishes like Fiesta Chicken Casserole or Chicken Parmesan Casserole, you absolutely need to add this recipe to your regular rotation.

And don’t forget dessert! Finish off this delightful meal with a scrumptious and easy Berry Cobbler for a sweet ending to your Mexican feast.

Red Chili Chicken Enchiladas on a plate with toppings

These Red Chili Chicken Enchiladas are an explosion of flavors. We’re talking tender, juicy shredded chicken embraced by a rich and savory red enchilada sauce, all nestled between layers of cheesy goodness. This recipe brings the comforting flavors of Mexico right to your dinner table, perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen, or for sharing with family and friends at your next gathering. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Step-by-Step Recipe Video

Visual learners, rejoice! Watch this easy-to-follow video to see exactly how to make these incredible Red Chili Chicken Enchiladas. From mixing the ingredients to layering the casserole, this video provides a helpful guide that ensures perfect results every time. Follow along and discover all the tips and tricks for making the most delicious enchiladas you’ve ever tasted.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe…

Easy Red Chili Chicken Enchilada Recipe

This Red Chili Chicken Enchilada recipe transforms the classic enchilada into an effortless casserole – no individual rolling required! Simply layer tortillas, succulent chicken, flavorful sauce, and plenty of melted cheese in a baking dish and bake until bubbly and golden. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the flavors you love with minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you need a quick and satisfying meal.

  • ⏰ Ready In: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • 🍂 Perfect For: Cozy weeknights, potlucks, or family dinners
  • 🛒 Key Ingredients: Chicken, red enchilada sauce, tortillas, cheese, Rotel
  • 🍽️ Servings: 4
  • 👩‍🍳 Difficulty: Easy
  • 🧊 Make-Ahead Friendly: Refrigerates and freezes well

If you’re looking for another easy and delicious casserole recipe, you should definitely try my Fiesta Chicken Casserole next!

Made With Love,

Red Chili Chicken Enchilada Ingredients

What You’ll Need for Red Chili Chicken Enchiladas

This recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients, making it easy to whip up a delicious meal any night of the week. Here’s what you’ll need to create these mouthwatering Red Chili Chicken Enchiladas:

  • Shredded chicken – Choose pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken to save time and effort. The chicken soaks up the rich enchilada sauce, adding incredible flavor to every bite.
  • Red enchilada sauce – The star of the show! This provides a bold, authentic flavor that’s quintessential to enchiladas. Choose your favorite brand or even make your own for a personalized touch.
  • Corn tortillas – Corn tortillas provide a slightly chewy texture and hold the layers together perfectly. Look for smaller-sized tortillas for easier layering in your baking dish.
  • Cheddar + Monterey Jack cheese – A winning combination! This melty, gooey duo creates the ultimate cheesy indulgence that makes this dish irresistible.
  • Rotel – A can of Rotel adds a touch of spice and freshness to the enchiladas. Be sure to drain it well to avoid excess liquid in the casserole.

If you are searching for similar layered dinners, you’ll love my Simple Cheese Ravioli Bake!

Full Ingredient List

For your convenience, here’s the complete list of ingredients and their exact amounts to ensure your Red Chili Chicken Enchiladas turn out perfect every time. Feel free to adjust the amounts based on your personal preferences and dietary needs.

  • 1 pound cooked shredded chicken
  • 1 (10 ounce) can Rotel, drained
  • 10 small corn tortillas, quartered
  • 20 ounces red or green enchilada sauce
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

The complete ingredient list and detailed instructions are included in the printable recipe card below. Feel free to save or print it for later, so you can easily access the recipe whenever you want to make it!

How to Make Red Chili Chicken Enchiladas

Ready to get cooking? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making these delicious Red Chili Chicken Enchiladas. With simple instructions and helpful tips, you’ll have a mouthwatering casserole ready in no time. Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Mixing Chicken and Rotel

Step 2: In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the shredded chicken and drained Rotel together. This combination adds a juicy and slightly spicy kick to the enchiladas.

Step 3: Lightly coat the bottom of an 8×8 inch baking dish with a small amount of enchilada sauce. This helps to prevent the tortillas from sticking and adds an extra layer of flavor.

Layering Red Chili Chicken Enchiladas

Step 4: Begin layering the ingredients. Start with a layer of quartered corn tortillas, followed by the chicken mixture, a generous sprinkling of both cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, and a drizzle of more enchilada sauce.

Red Chili Enchiladas ready to be put into the oven

Step 5: Repeat the layering process for a total of three layers, ensuring you finish with a generous layer of cheese on top. This will create a beautiful, melty crust.

Cheesy Red Chili Chicken Enchiladas after baking

Step 6: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown. This ensures the cheese is perfectly melted and the tortillas are tender.

Don’t forget to save the step-by-step instructions! You can find them in the printable recipe card below. This is a great way to have the recipe handy when you’re ready to start cooking.

Red Chili Chicken Enchilada Variations

Want to customize this recipe to your liking? Here are a few delicious variations you can try to make these Red Chili Chicken Enchiladas your own. Experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your perfect casserole!

  • Swap the sauce – For a milder twist, replace the red enchilada sauce with green enchilada sauce.
  • Add some beans – To add more substance and texture to your enchiladas, mix in black beans or corn between the layers.
  • Change the tortilla – If you prefer a softer bite, use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas.
  • Garnish with flavor – Before serving, sprinkle fresh cilantro or sliced green onions over the casserole for a burst of freshness.

For another delicious chicken casserole, be sure to check out my Chicken Cordon Bleu Pockets!

Tips and Tricks

Here are some professional tips that’ll improve your cooking experience and result in a delicious Red Chili Chicken Enchiladas every time:

  • Save time using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken: This is an excellent technique for shortening prep time, particularly on busy weeknights.
  • Warm the tortillas slightly before layering: This prevents tearing and enables the tortillas to be more flexible.
  • Freeze individual portions for easy future meals: Prepare ahead, then freeze for quick and simple dinners on busy days.

Recipe FAQs – Red Chili Chicken Enchiladas

Have some questions before you dive in? Here are some frequently asked questions about these Red Chili Chicken Enchiladas to help you achieve perfect results.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze them?
Yes, these enchiladas freeze well. Freeze before or after baking for up to 2 months. Reheat covered until warm.
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Yes, you can use flour tortillas, but corn tortillas hold up better in layers and provide a more authentic flavor.
How can I make these less spicy?
Use mild enchilada sauce and plain diced tomatoes instead of Rotel to reduce the spice level.

For another Tex-Mex favorite, check out my Mexican Beef and Rice One-Pot Meal.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your Red Chili Chicken Enchiladas experience. These accompaniments and additions perfectly complement the rich and savory flavors of the casserole.

  • Fresh lime wedges for a zesty twist.
  • Sliced avocado or guacamole for creamy richness.
  • Mexican rice or refried beans for a complete meal.
  • A light dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
  • Finish with Berry Cobbler for dessert!

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating

These Red Chili Chicken Enchiladas are great for meal prep and leftovers. Here’s how to properly store and reheat them to maintain their delicious flavor and texture.

  • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze in individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat: Bake covered in the oven or microwave until hot. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

For another easy and make-ahead meal, see my Potato Beef Casserole.

More Great Casserole Recipes

Looking for more delicious casserole recipes? Here are a few of my favorites that are sure to please your family and friends. From chicken to pasta to beef, there’s a casserole for everyone!

Fiesta Chicken Casserole

Fiesta Chicken Casserole

Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor!

Simple Cheese Ravioli Bake

Simple Cheese Ravioli Bake

An easy and comforting pasta dish!

Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Classic comfort food made easy!

Hashbrown Hamburger Casserole

Hashbrown Hamburger Casserole

Hearty, cheesy, and perfect for weeknights!

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Finished dish of Red Chili Chicken Enchiladas

Red Chili Chicken Enchiladas

By Julia Pacheco

Cheesy Red Chili Chicken Enchiladas baked with tender chicken, delicious sauce, and melty cheese — classic comfort food made easy.

Prep time: 30 minutes

Cook time: 40 minutes

Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Servings: 4

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Ingredients

  • 1 pound cooked shredded chicken
  • 1 can Rotel (drained)
  • 10 small corn tortillas, quartered
  • 20 oz red or green enchilada sauce
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375℉.
  2. Mix chicken and Rotel.
  3. Coat bottom of 8×8 dish with sauce.
  4. Layer tortillas, chicken, cheese, and sauce; repeat 3 times.
  5. Bake covered 30 minutes, then uncovered 25 minutes.

Video

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
  • Substitute green enchilada sauce for a milder flavor.
  • Freeze portions for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 626kcal | Carbohydrates: 46g | Protein: 49g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 138mg | Sodium: 1708mg | Potassium: 618mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 1614IU | Vitamin C: 12mg | Calcium: 509mg | Iron: 4mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

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