Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas

Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas

If you’re looking for a scrumptious meal that comes together in a jiffy, you’ve stumbled upon the ultimate chicken enchiladas recipe. Packed with juicy shredded chicken, gooey cheese, and a delectable sauce, these enchiladas are your go-to comfort food any night of the week. I often turn to this recipe when I’m racing against the clock yet craving something satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you have guests over, these enchiladas will surely impress!

What Makes This Recipe Special

You might wonder why you should try your hand at making chicken enchiladas, and the answer is simple: they’re quick, budget-friendly, and unbelievably delicious! This recipe not only saves you time in the kitchen but also pleases a crowd. Picture this: a cheesy, saucy, and flavorful dish that pleases both kids and adults alike. Plus, it requires minimal ingredients, making it ideal for those last-minute dinner plans.

"These enchiladas are now a regular in our household. Quick to make and they taste homemade!" – Happy Customer

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Preparing your homemade chicken enchiladas is a breeze! With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish ready to go. This recipe is designed for ease without sacrificing flavor, making it perfect for everyone from novice cooks to seasoned chefs. Let’s dive into what you need to get started.

Gather Your Ingredients

To whip up these delicious enchiladas, you’ll need:

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
• 8 small flour or corn tortillas
• 1/2 cup diced onions (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Feel free to swap out the cheese or tortillas based on your preferences or dietary needs!

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, half of the cheese, diced onions, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Fill each tortilla with a portion of the chicken mixture, roll up, and place seam side down in the baking dish.
5. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Tips for Serving

When it comes to serving your chicken enchiladas, consider pairing them with a fresh green salad or some zesty Mexican rice for a complete meal. You can also serve them alongside homemade guacamole or a side of sour cream for that extra creaminess. The contrast of fresh toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or avocado can take this dish to the next level!

Best Way to Store Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas

Leftover enchiladas? No problem! To keep your enchiladas fresh, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just ensure they’re wrapped well to prevent freezer burn, and they can last for up to three months! When you’re ready to eat, reheat in the oven until hot throughout.

Pro Chef Tips

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: To save even more time, consider using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. It’s flavorful and makes the prep even quicker.
• Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheese blends for unique flavor profiles.
• Add Spice: If you enjoy a little heat, toss in some diced green chilies or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper in your chicken mixture.

Creative Twists

Feel free to get creative with your enchiladas! Try swapping out the chicken for shredded beef or black beans for a vegetarian option. Want something different? Consider adding spinach or bell peppers to the filling for a pop of color and nutrition.

Your Questions Answered

What is the prep time for this recipe?

Prep for these chicken enchiladas takes about 10-15 minutes, making them perfect for a last-minute dinner.

Can I make these enchiladas dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the cheese with a dairy-free alternative and ensure that your enchilada sauce is also dairy-free.

How can I tell if my enchiladas are safe to eat after storage?

If stored properly, your enchiladas should be safe for 3 days in the fridge. Always check for any off odors or discoloration before consuming leftovers.

Now you’re all set to create the ultimate quick and easy chicken enchiladas! Enjoy the cooking process, and don’t hesitate to make it your own. Happy cooking!

Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas

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• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free (if using corn tortillas)

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Description

A quick and easy chicken enchiladas recipe packed with shredded chicken, cheese, and enchilada sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
• 8 small flour or corn tortillas
• 1/2 cup diced onions (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, half of the cheese, diced onions, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Fill each tortilla with a portion of the chicken mixture, roll up, and place seam side down in the baking dish.
5. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

For a more personalized touch, consider adding diced green chilies or substituting protein. Great to serve with salad or guacamole.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: chicken enchiladas, quick dinner, easy recipe, comfort food, Mexican cuisine