Delicious Chicken Enchiladas

When it comes to whipping up a comforting and delicious meal, few dishes can compare to homemade chicken enchiladas. These cheesy, saucy wraps filled with tender chicken are not only satisfying but also versatile, making them the perfect dish for everything from a cozy weeknight dinner to a festive gathering with friends and family. I love making these enchiladas because they bring back fond memories of family gatherings, where each bite was filled with love and flavor.

Why this Recipe Deserves a Spot on Your Table

What makes these chicken enchiladas special? For starters, they come together quickly, making them a lifesaver on busy weeknights. With just a handful of ingredients—many of which you might already have on hand—you can create an authentic Mexican dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare. These enchiladas are also kid-approved, thanks to their cheesy goodness and mild flavor, which can be adjusted based on your family’s tastes.

"I made these enchiladas for a family dinner, and they were a hit! Everyone went back for seconds. Thanks for the easy recipe!" – Sarah T.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Ready to create a mouthwatering plate of chicken enchiladas? Below is an overview of the process to give you a good sense of what to expect. The steps are straightforward, allowing even beginner cooks to shine and impress their guests.

1. Prepare the Chicken: You can use store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your own.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Sauté chopped onions and garlic for a fragrant filling.
3. Mix the Filling: Combine the shredded chicken with spices and seasonings.
4. Assemble the Enchiladas: Roll the chicken mixture in tortillas, top with enchilada sauce, and cheese.
5. Bake to Perfection: Bake until bubbly and golden.

Everything You Need for This Recipe

Gather these ingredients to whip up your delicious chicken enchiladas:

• 2 cups Cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie for convenience or cooked from scratch)
• 1 can Red enchilada sauce (10 oz; choose mild or spicy)
• 2 cups Shredded Monterey Jack cheese (for that creamy, melty goodness)
• 8 Flour tortillas (soft for easy rolling)
• 1 tablespoon Vegetable oil (to sauté aromatics)
• 1 small Onion, chopped (for sweetness)
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced (for flavor)
• 1 teaspoon Cumin (adds warmth)
• 1 teaspoon Chili powder (for a bit of kick)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped cilantro for garnish (adds freshness)
• Sour cream for serving (adds creaminess)

Cooking Steps

1. Cook the Chicken: If not using rotisserie chicken, boil or bake your chicken until fully cooked, then shred it using two forks.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat, add chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Combine Filling: Add shredded chicken to the skillet, season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.
4. Prep Baking Dish: Pour a small amount of enchilada sauce into a baking dish to prevent sticking.
5. Assemble: On each tortilla, place a generous spoonful of the chicken mixture, sprinkle with shredded cheese, then roll tightly and place seam-side down in the dish. Repeat until all are filled.
6. Top It Off: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled enchiladas and sprinkle with the rest of the cheese.
7. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
8. Rest and Garnish: Let the enchiladas rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with sour cream.

Perfect Pairings for Delicious Chicken Enchiladas

These chicken enchiladas shine on their own, but they can be even more delightful when paired with side dishes. Consider serving them with:

• A fresh green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette.
• Homemade guacamole and tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast.
• Spanish rice or beans for a heartier meal.
• A zesty corn salad to brighten up the plate.

Best Way to Store Delicious Chicken Enchiladas

If you have leftovers (which is uncommon with these tasty enchiladas), storing them properly can help you enjoy them later!

• Refrigeration: Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the assembled but unbaked enchiladas in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, adding extra time to the cooking.
• Reheating: If reheating, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.

Helpful Hints

To take your chicken enchiladas to the next level, consider trying these expert tips:

• Cheese Variety: Mix it up by using a combination of cheeses. Try pepper jack for added spiciness or a blend of different cheeses for depth of flavor.
• Sauce Swaps: Experiment with different types of sauces, like tomatillo sauce or a white sauce, for unique flavor profiles.
• Shortcut: For less prep work, go for pre-shredded chicken or even a canned chicken option.

Creative Twists

The beauty of chicken enchiladas lies in their versatility. Here are some variations to keep the dish exciting:

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for black beans and sautéed bell peppers for a meatless alternative.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the chicken filling for an extra spicy version.
• Different Toppings: Top your enchiladas with sliced avocados or pickled onions for added texture and flavor.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare the chicken for the enchiladas?

If you use rotisserie chicken, it saves time significantly, allowing you to have everything ready in about 30-40 minutes. Cooking your own chicken will take longer, depending on your method.

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

Absolutely! Corn tortillas are a traditional choice for enchiladas and work wonderfully. Just be sure to warm them slightly to prevent cracking when rolling.

How can I ensure my enchiladas don’t dry out during baking?

The key to keeping your enchiladas moist is to generously cover them with enchilada sauce before baking. Covering them with foil during the first part of baking helps retain moisture as well.

With its delightful blend of flavors and comforting cheesy goodness, this chicken enchilada recipe will undoubtedly become a favorite in your household. Enjoy your culinary journey!

Homemade Chicken Enchiladas

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• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free option available

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Description

Delicious and comforting chicken enchiladas filled with tender chicken and cheese, topped with zesty enchilada sauce.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups Cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie for convenience or cooked from scratch)
• 1 can Red enchilada sauce (10 oz; choose mild or spicy)
• 2 cups Shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 8 Flour tortillas
• 1 tablespoon Vegetable oil
• 1 small Onion, chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Cumin
• 1 teaspoon Chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped cilantro for garnish
• Sour cream for serving

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Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken: If not using rotisserie chicken, boil or bake your chicken until fully cooked, then shred it using two forks.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat, add chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Combine Filling: Add shredded chicken to the skillet, season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.
4. Prep Baking Dish: Pour a small amount of enchilada sauce into a baking dish to prevent sticking.
5. Assemble: On each tortilla, place a generous spoonful of the chicken mixture, sprinkle with shredded cheese, then roll tightly and place seam-side down in the dish. Repeat until all are filled.
6. Top It Off: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled enchiladas and sprinkle with the rest of the cheese.
7. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
8. Rest and Garnish: Let the enchiladas rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with sour cream.

Notes

For added flavor, consider using a mix of cheeses or different sauces.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 enchilada
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: chicken enchiladas, Mexican recipe, comfort food, easy dinner, cheesy enchiladas