Craving a delicious and satisfying Mexican-inspired dish? These Chicken Enchiladas are a perfect blend of tender chicken, flavorful spices, gooey cheese, and a rich enchilada sauce. Wrapped in soft tortillas and baked to perfection, this recipe is a family favorite for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings.
How to Make Chicken Enchiladas
Making these enchiladas is easier than you might think. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have a hearty and flavorful dish ready to serve. Here’s how you can create this restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook and shred the chicken.
2. Sauté onions and mix with chicken and spices.
3. Roll chicken and cheese in tortillas.
4. Layer with sauce and cheese.
5. Bake and garnish before serving.
Chicken Enchiladas
4
servings15
minutes30
minutesIngredients
Cooked Shredded Chicken: 3 cups (rotisserie chicken works great!)
Enchilada Sauce: 2 cups (store-bought or homemade)
Tortillas: 8 large flour or corn tortillas
Cheddar Cheese: 1½ cups, shredded
Monterey Jack Cheese: 1 cup, shredded
Onion: 1 small, finely diced
Green Chiles: 1 can (4 oz), diced
Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
Cumin: 1 teaspoon
Salt and Pepper: To taste
Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
Directions
- Prepare the Filling: In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté the diced onion until translucent. Add shredded chicken, green chiles, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well and remove from heat.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Assemble the Enchiladas: Spread ½ cup of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a greased baking dish. Fill each tortilla with a scoop of chicken mixture and a sprinkle of cheese. Roll them tightly and arrange them seam-side down in the dish.
- Top with Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas to top them with sauce and cheese.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake it for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for 10 more minutes, or until the cheese turns golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, and sliced jalapeños, if desired.
FAQ
1. Can I use store-bought enchilada sauce?
Yes, store-bought sauce works perfectly, but homemade enchilada sauce adds a personal touch.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Place leftover enchiladas in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat using the oven or microwave.
3. Can I freeze enchiladas?
Absolutely! Prepare the enchiladas without baking, cover securely, and freeze. To bake, thaw them overnight in the fridge and follow the baking instructions.
4. What sides go well with chicken enchiladas?
Serve with Mexican rice, refried beans, guacamole, or a fresh side salad.
5. Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas a day ahead and refrigerate. Bake them just before serving.
