Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas

A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe

Nothing warms the heart and soul quite like a plate of chicken enchiladas. This recipe for Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas takes the traditional dish and puts it on a fast track to your dinner table. Whether you’re coming home from a long day at work or hosting a relaxed family gathering, this dish is a go-to choice. Often, when I’m in a bind for something quick but want to impress my family, these enchiladas come to my rescue!

Why You’ll Love Making It

What makes these Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas a keeper? For starters, they are incredibly simple to prepare. With only a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a delightful meal in under an hour. They’re also budget-friendly and perfect for using up leftover cooked chicken. Add in a vibrant enchilada sauce and gooey cheese, and you’ve got a winning combination.

“These enchiladas are a family favorite! Quick to make and full of flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights!”

You’ll find they are not only kid-approved but also can be dressed up for gatherings or festive occasions. It’s perfect for any night of the week, but especially great when you want a comforting dinner without spending all day in the kitchen.

Preparing Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas

This recipe is straightforward and efficient. You’ll be pleased to know that in just a few steps, you can have these scrumptious enchiladas baked and ready to serve. Here’s a brief overview of the process: you’ll mix a few simple ingredients, fill your tortillas, bake, and serve. It’s as easy as that!

Gather Your Ingredients

To make these enchiladas, you’ll need the following staples:

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  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
  • 1 cup enchilada sauce
  • 8 small flour or corn tortillas
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1/2 cup black beans (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Feel free to swap the shredded chicken for turkey or a plant-based protein, and you can use any type of cheese you prefer!

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, half of the cheese, diced onion, black beans (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  3. Spread a small amount of enchilada sauce at the bottom of a baking dish.
  4. Fill each tortilla with a portion of the chicken mixture, roll them up tightly, and place them seam-side down in the baking dish.
  5. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the tortillas and sprinkle with the rest of the cheese.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Best Way to Serve

These enchiladas shine bright on their own, but you can elevate your meal by pairing them with sides like avocado slices, Mexican rice, or a fresh garden salad. A dollop of sour cream or guacamole adds a delightful creaminess that perfectly complements the dish.

Storage Tips

If you happen to have any leftovers (though I doubt you will!), here’s how to keep them fresh. Store the enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze them, you can: just make sure to wrap them tightly and they will last for up to 3 months. For reheating, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave them for swift enjoyment.

Pro Chef Tips

  • For added flavor, try sautéing your diced onions before mixing them in. This will give a delicious sweetness to your filling.
  • Experiment with different types of cheese! Mixing mozzarella with cheddar creates a delightful texture and taste.
  • If you like heat, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into your chicken mixture.

Creative Twists

Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own! You can experiment with various fillings, like shredded beef, jackfruit, or even vegetables for a hearty vegetarian option. Top your enchiladas with different sauces, such as a green salsa or a creamy avocado sauce to shake things up.

Your Questions Answered

What is the prep time for these enchiladas?

Preparation should take around 10-15 minutes, while baking takes about 25 minutes.

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds even more flavor to your dish.

How can I keep leftovers safe?

Make sure to store your enchiladas in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking, and consume them within 3 days for the best quality.

This Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers a simple solution for busy weeknights. Give it a try—you might just find it becomes a regular feature on your dinner table!

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Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas


  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Meal Prep

Description

A quick and easy recipe for chicken enchiladas that is perfect for busy weeknights, made with shredded chicken, cheese, and enchilada sauce.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
  • 1 cup enchilada sauce
  • 8 small flour or corn tortillas
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1/2 cup black beans (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, half of the cheese, diced onion, black beans (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  3. Spread a small amount of enchilada sauce at the bottom of a baking dish.
  4. Fill each tortilla with a portion of the chicken mixture, roll them up tightly, and place them seam-side down in the baking dish.
  5. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the tortillas and sprinkle with the rest of the cheese.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Notes

For added flavor, sauté diced onions before mixing. Experiment with different cheese types or fillings like shredded beef or vegetables.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: enchiladas, chicken, quick dinner, easy recipe, meal prep

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