Shredded Chicken Green Chile Casserole

Name: Shredded Chicken Green Chile Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles, drained; 2 cups sour cream; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend); 1 cup tortilla chips, crushed; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Collection

I absolutely love making Shredded Chicken Green Chile Casserole for my family and friends. It combines tender shredded chicken with a spicy kick from green chiles, all baked under a layer of melted cheese. The best part? It's an easy, one-dish meal that's perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. I enjoy serving this comforting casserole with a side of fresh salad, and it never fails to impress everyone around the table. Trust me, once you try it, you'll want to make it again and again!

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2026-02-24T01:09:37.053Z

When I first attempted this casserole, I wanted to create something that was both hearty and satisfying, yet simple enough for a busy weeknight. After experimenting with various ingredients, I discovered that using rotisserie chicken not only saves time but adds incredible flavor. The blend of cream, cheese, and green chiles also has a magical ability to complement the chicken perfectly. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen!

What I love most about this dish is the flexibility it offers. You can easily adjust the spice level by varying the amount of green chiles you use, and it's also a great opportunity to sneak in some veggies like spinach or zucchini. Sharing this casserole with friends has always brought joy to our gatherings and brings everyone together around the table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory mix of shredded chicken and zesty green chiles
Creamy texture topped with bubbly melted cheese
Easily customizable for spice lovers or comfort seekers

Ingredient Insights

The combination of shredded chicken and diced green chiles creates a delightful flavor profile in this casserole. The green chiles add a mild to moderate spice, depending on your preference. If you want to amp up the heat, consider using a spicier variety, like jalapeño or even roasted poblano peppers. This versatility allows you to adjust the casserole to suit your family's tastes, making it a flexible option for gatherings.

Sour cream and cream of chicken soup contribute a rich creaminess that binds the ingredients together. For a lower-fat option, you could use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream. Just make sure to choose a plain, unflavored yogurt to maintain the savory profile of the dish. Similarly, any cream soup can work here; a cream of mushroom or a homemade version could add unique flavors.

Techniques for Success

Mixing the casserole carefully is essential for achieving a consistent flavor throughout. When you combine the ingredients in the large bowl, ensure that the chicken is adequately coated with the mixture, as dry spots may result in clumps of unseasoned chicken after baking. Aim for a creamy, somewhat thick texture before layering it in the baking dish; this will help it hold together after baking.

When layering the casserole, be particular about the distribution of the tortilla chips. This ensures an even crunch across the top and prevents any sogginess underneath. I recommend gently pressing the chips into the chicken mixture before adding the top layer of cheese for a sturdier finish. Watching for a golden brown color on the cheese is key—it should be bubbly and slightly crisp, indicating that it’s cooked to perfection.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your casserole:

Casserole Ingredients

4 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles, drained
2 cups sour cream
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
1 cup tortilla chips, crushed
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're all set to assemble the casserole.

Instructions

Here's how to make this delicious casserole:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

Mix the ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced green chiles, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined.

Layer the casserole

Spread half of the chicken mixture in the greased baking dish. Sprinkle half of the crushed tortilla chips on top, then layer the remaining chicken mixture. Lastly, top with the rest of the tortilla chips and the remaining shredded cheese.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños to the mixture or using pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.

Make-Ahead and Storage

You can make this casserole ahead of time, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with foil, and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through completely. This way, you can enjoy hearty home-cooked comfort without the need for extensive prep on a hectic day.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, place a piece of foil over the casserole to prevent the cheese from burning while the inside warms up. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through, to keep the crispy texture on top.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful presentation, serve the casserole with a dollop of guacamole or sour cream on top. Fresh cilantro or chopped green onions sprinkled over the top adds a burst of color and freshness that enhances the dish. Pairing it with a vibrant, citrusy salad can balance the richness, offering a refreshing bite with every spoonful.

I often enjoy this casserole with a side of black beans or Mexican rice for a complete meal. These sides complement the flavors while adding more texture and substance, turning this casserole into a feast that's sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before shredding.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with a gluten-free version and use gluten-free tortilla chips.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some simple steamed vegetables.