Salsa Verde Enchilada Pie is a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that combines the savory goodness of enchiladas with the convenience of a casserole. Layers of corn tortillas, tender chicken, and a zesty salsa verde sauce are baked with melted cheese, creating a dish that’s rich, satisfying, and full of vibrant flavors. The tangy salsa verde adds a refreshing kick, while the cheese and tortillas provide that classic enchilada texture.
The first time I made Salsa Verde Enchilada Pie, I was amazed by how the flavors melded together. The salsa verde provided a bright, citrusy contrast to the richness of the melted cheese and the savory chicken, making each bite burst with flavor. What I love most about this dish is how simple it is to prepare while still delivering bold, satisfying taste. You can customize it with your favorite fillings—swap in ground beef or beans for the chicken, add extra veggies like bell peppers or corn, or even top it with sour cream and cilantro for a fresh finishing touch. It’s a perfect meal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or whenever you want a comforting dish with a little kick!
Perfect for:
- Family dinners
- Casual gatherings
- Taco Tuesdays
- Potlucks
- Salsa verde enthusiasts
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why this Salsa Verde Enchilada Pie will become a favorite in your kitchen:
- Flavorful Salsa Verde: The tangy, zesty salsa verde infuses every bite with vibrant flavor.
- Cheesy Goodness: This dish is loaded with cheese, creating a melty, gooey texture that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
- Comforting Layers: With layers of tortillas, chicken, and salsa, this pie is a comforting and hearty meal.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make this dish ahead of time and reheat for a quick and easy meal throughout the week.
- Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the heat by using mild or hot salsa verde, or even adding extra jalapeños.
- Quick and Easy to Make: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is perfect for feeding a group of hungry guests and will be a hit at your next gathering.
- One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
- Healthy Option: Made with lean chicken, fresh vegetables, and minimal added fats, this dish is a lighter option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Simply use corn tortillas to make this recipe gluten-free without sacrificing taste or texture.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 8 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 18g
Ingredients
For the Enchilada Pie:
- 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups salsa verde
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños
- Sliced avocado
- Lime wedges
Ingredient Highlights
- Salsa Verde: Adds a tangy, fresh flavor that complements the rich cheese and tender chicken.
- Shredded Chicken: Provides lean protein and ensures each bite is packed with flavor.
- Corn Tortillas: Offer an authentic taste and texture that absorbs the salsa and adds to the pie’s structure.
- Cheese Blend: A mixture of cheddar and Mexican cheese ensures a melty, flavorful topping.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Cook Chicken: If not using pre-cooked chicken, cook chicken breasts in a skillet with olive oil over medium heat until fully cooked. Shred the chicken with a fork and set aside.
- Season Chicken: Toss the shredded chicken with garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Prepare the Enchilada Pie:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Layer the Pie: Place a layer of tortillas at the bottom of the dish, covering the entire surface. Top with half of the seasoned chicken, a third of the salsa verde, a third of the cheese, and half of the diced onions. Repeat the layers with tortillas, chicken, salsa, cheese, and onions.
- Top Layer: Finish with a final layer of tortillas, the remaining salsa verde, and the rest of the cheese.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Serve:
- Garnish and Slice: Garnish with fresh cilantro, jalapeños, sliced avocado, and lime wedges. Slice and serve hot.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Salsa Verde Enchilada Pie:
- As a Family Dinner: Serve with a side of rice and beans for a complete meal.
- With Fresh Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad for a light and refreshing contrast.
- Topped with Sour Cream: Add a dollop of sour cream on top for extra creaminess.
- With Guacamole: Serve with homemade guacamole for a perfect party appetizer.
- As a Potluck Dish: This pie is perfect for sharing at a potluck or BBQ.
- With Sautéed Vegetables: Serve with sautéed peppers and onions for added texture and flavor.
- For Taco Night: Enjoy as part of a taco-themed meal, with tortillas and salsa on the side.
- With a Side of Chips: Serve with tortilla chips for an extra crunch.
- For a Cozy Lunch: Reheat leftovers for a quick and satisfying lunch.
- With Lime Wedges: Squeeze fresh lime over the pie for a burst of citrusy freshness.
Additional Tips
- Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: For a quicker preparation, use rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken.
- Don’t Overlap Tortillas: Ensure each tortilla layer is flat to create even, clean layers.
- Customize Your Heat Level: Adjust the salsa verde or add extra jalapeños based on your spice preference.
- Use Corn or Flour Tortillas: While corn tortillas are traditional, you can also use flour tortillas if preferred.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the pie ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake for an easy weeknight dinner.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Enchilada Pie: Use black beans or roasted vegetables in place of chicken.
- Spicy Salsa Verde: Use a hotter salsa verde or add sliced jalapeños to the layers for more heat.
- Beef Enchilada Pie: Substitute the chicken with seasoned ground beef for a different flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use corn tortillas and ensure the other ingredients are gluten-free.
- Creamy Enchilada Pie: Add a layer of cream cheese or sour cream between the layers for a richer, creamier dish.
- Extra Cheesy: Add an extra layer of cheese between the tortillas for an even cheesier pie.
Special Equipment
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish: The ideal size for layering and baking the enchilada pie.
- Electric Mixer (Optional): For shredding chicken quickly, though a fork works just as well.
- Skillet: For cooking and seasoning the chicken.
- Aluminum Foil: To cover the pie while baking and prevent the cheese from over-browning.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate amounts of spices and ingredients.
- Serving Spoon: For easy serving of this hearty dish.
FAQ Section
- Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Yes, flour tortillas can be used, though corn tortillas are more traditional. - How long does this pie last in the fridge?
The pie can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. - Can I freeze the pie?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled, uncooked pie for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra cooking time. - Can I use store-bought salsa verde?
Yes, store-bought salsa verde is a great time-saver and will still taste delicious. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the pie and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. - What’s the best way to cut the pie?
Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to slice the pie neatly. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish. - Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, replace the chicken with black beans, tofu, or roasted vegetables. - Can I add beans to the pie?
Yes, you can add black beans, refried beans, or pinto beans between the layers for extra texture. - What can I serve with the pie?
Pair it with rice, beans, salad, or even chips for a well-rounded meal.
Conclusion
Salsa Verde Enchilada Pie is a flavorful and comforting dish that layers corn tortillas with a tangy salsa verde, seasoned chicken (or beef), cheese, and other enchilada-inspired ingredients. It’s like a casserole but with all the delicious flavors of enchiladas—perfect for those looking for a quick, easy meal with a little extra flair. The salsa verde adds a zesty, slightly spicy kick, while the melted cheese gives the pie a gooey, comforting texture.
This dish is perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or a crowd-pleasing weeknight meal. You can easily customize it with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, cilantro, or sliced avocado, and serve it alongside a fresh salad or rice. You can also adjust the heat level of the salsa verde to suit your taste, adding jalapeños for extra spice or a mild version for a more subtle flavor.
I can’t wait to see how your Salsa Verde Enchilada Pie turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!