Name: Delicious Chicken Enchiladas: 8 Easy Steps to Perfection
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken; 1 can red enchilada sauce; 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)

Jump to Recipe

Chicken Enchiladas are a beloved Mexican comfort food that bring warmth and flavor to any dinner table. Made with tender shredded chicken, enveloped in soft tortillas and topped with rich red enchilada sauce, these enchiladas are not just delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Whether you are hosting a family dinner or just craving something satisfying, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering Chicken Enchiladas recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Enchiladas

These easy chicken enchiladas are the perfect meal for busy weeknights. They are not only quick to prepare but also customizable, allowing you to add your favorite ingredients. You can opt for spicy chicken enchiladas by adding jalapeños or choose creamy chicken enchiladas by using cream cheese. This dish is also gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs. With a total cooking time of just 45 minutes, it’s an excellent option for a satisfying dinner. Plus, everyone loves cheese, and this recipe is no exception!

Ingredients for Chicken Enchiladas

Gather these items:

2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
1 can red enchilada sauce
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)

How to Make Chicken Enchiladas Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion and garlic until softened.
Step 3: Add shredded chicken, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and heat through.
Step 4: Pour a small amount of enchilada sauce into the bottom of a baking dish.
Step 5: Fill each tortilla with chicken mixture and some cheese, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in dish.
Step 6: Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the top. Sprinkle with remaining cheese.
Step 7: Cover with foil and bake for 20–25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 5–10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Step 8: Let rest a few minutes before serving. Garnish with cilantro and serve with sour cream.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chicken Enchiladas

Keep these in mind:

Perfect for busy weeknights or make-ahead meals.
Customize with your favorite ingredients.
To add a bit of heat, consider making spicy chicken enchiladas with extra chili powder.
Experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors.

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Enchiladas

These enchiladas are versatile and can be served in various ways:

Pair them with a side of Mexican rice for a complete meal.
Top with fresh avocado slices for added creaminess.
Serve alongside a salad for a refreshing contrast.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Enchiladas

To store your homemade chicken enchiladas, simply cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in the refrigerator. They can last for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, approximately 15-20 minutes. This makes them perfect for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Enchiladas

What’s the secret to perfect Chicken Enchiladas?

The secret lies in using quality ingredients, especially the chicken and enchilada sauce. Freshly made sauce gives your chicken enchilada casserole a depth of flavor that store-bought options can’t match.

Can I make Chicken Enchiladas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the enchiladas up to the baking step, cover them, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great way to save time on busy days.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken Enchiladas?

To prevent soggy tortillas, avoid over-soaking them in sauce before rolling. Also, ensure not to overfill the tortillas to make rolling easier and prevent them from breaking.

Delicious Chicken Enchiladas: 8 Easy Steps to Perfection - Chicken Enchiladas - additional detail

Variations of Chicken Enchiladas You Can Try

Feel free to get creative with these variations:

Chicken enchiladas with green sauce for a different flavor profile.
Try chicken enchiladas with black beans for added nutrition.
For a lighter option, consider a healthy chicken enchiladas recipe with whole wheat tortillas.
Vegetarian alternatives to chicken enchiladas, using beans or sautéed vegetables, are also delicious.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making creamy potato soup as a comforting side dish. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, our gingerbread cookies are a must-try!

For more information on the health benefits of chicken, you can visit Healthline.