Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, cheesy chicken enchilada, where each bite bursts with the rich flavors of seasoned chicken, zesty sauce, and melted cheese. The delightful aroma wafts through the air, transporting you to a cozy kitchen filled with laughter and the promise of good times.
These chicken enchiladas aren’t just a meal; they’re a comforting hug on a plate, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Picture yourself sharing stories around the table, laughter echoing as everyone digs into this hearty dish that brings joy and satisfaction with every delicious forkful.
Why Will You Keep Making Chicken Enchiladas?
Hearty and satisfying, these chicken enchiladas are the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Packed with flavor, tender shredded chicken and rich cheddar cheese meld beautifully with zesty enchilada sauce. Quick to prepare, you can whip up this dish in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Versatile and customizable, feel free to add your favorite ingredients or toppings! Crowd-pleasing delight, everyone from kids to adults will be reaching for seconds!
Chicken Enchiladas Ingredients
For the Filling
- 2 cups Cooked Chicken (Shredded) – Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful option that saves time.
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (Shredded) – Choose sharp cheddar for a richer taste that complements the enchilada sauce beautifully.
- 1 cup Onion (Chopped) – Sauté the onions first for extra sweetness and depth in flavor.
- 1 cup Sour Cream – This adds creaminess and balances the spices in your Chicken Enchiladas.
- 1 cup Enchilada Sauce (Divided) – Reserve some to pour over the top before baking for maximum flavor.
- 8 pieces Corn Tortillas – Fresh or store-bought, these are essential for wrapping up your delicious filling.
For the Topping
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (Shredded) – Sprinkle on top before baking for a gooey, cheesy crust that's irresistible.
- 1 tablespoon Cilantro (Chopped, for garnish) – Adds a fresh touch that brightens up your Chicken Enchiladas just before serving.
Directions: Chicken Enchiladas
1. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded chicken, 1 cup of chopped onion, 1 cup of sour cream, and ½ cup of enchilada sauce. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
2. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it's hot and ready for baking your delicious enchiladas.
3. Soften Tortillas: Soften the 8 corn tortillas by heating them in a skillet for just a few seconds on each side, making them pliable and easy to roll.
4. Prepare Baking Dish: Spread ¼ cup of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish; this will keep your enchiladas moist and flavorful as they bake.
5. Fill Tortillas: Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture, roll them up snugly, and place seam-side down in the baking dish, creating a cozy layer of goodness.
6. Top with Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top, then sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for that melty, cheesy finish.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly, creating an inviting golden crust.
8. Garnish: Finally, garnish with 1 tablespoon of chopped cilantro before serving for a fresh pop of color and flavor that brightens up your enchiladas.
Optional: Serve with extra sour cream on the side for added creaminess!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Chicken Enchiladas
- Chicken Shredding: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or poach your own. Shredded chicken blends perfectly into the filling for rich flavor.
- Cheese Choice: Opt for sharp cheddar for a more robust taste. Mixing cheeses like Monterey Jack can add delightful creaminess to your Chicken Enchiladas.
- Sauté Onions: Lightly sauté the chopped onions before mixing them with the filling. This enhances their sweetness and adds depth to the overall flavor.
- Tortilla Warmth: Always warm your corn tortillas in a skillet before rolling. This prevents cracking and makes them easier to fill without breaking.
- Sauce Distribution: Don’t skimp on the enchilada sauce at the bottom of the dish. A generous layer will keep your Chicken Enchiladas moist and flavorful during baking.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on your enchiladas as they bake. Overcooking can lead to tough tortillas; aim for bubbly cheese and heated through.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Enchiladas
- Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Enchiladas in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Chicken Enchiladas wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Thaw frozen enchiladas overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.
- Garnish Storage: Keep cilantro separate and add fresh just before serving to maintain its vibrant flavor and color.
Chicken Enchiladas Your Way
Feel free to sprinkle your personal touch on these enchiladas, making them uniquely yours and bursting with flavor!
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling for a zesty heat. This twist not only elevates the flavors but also adds an exciting kick that spice lovers will adore.
- Creamy Avocado: Swap half of the sour cream for mashed avocado to create a rich, buttery filling. The creamy texture of avocado blends beautifully with chicken, enhancing every bite while adding healthy fats.
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with black beans or sautéed vegetables for a delicious meat-free version. This variation brings a hearty texture and allows the enchiladas to shine with vibrant colors from your favorite veggies.
- Tex-Mex Fusion: Mix in some taco seasoning for an extra layer of flavor in your filling. The seasoned chicken pairs perfectly with the enchilada sauce, creating an irresistible bite that’s full of personality.
- Cheesy Goodness: Use a combination of cheeses, like Monterey Jack and Pepper Jack, to elevate the cheesy topping. The melty mixture creates a delightful contrast of flavors, making each enchilada even more indulgent.
- Cilantro-Lime Zest: Stir in fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro into the filling for a refreshing twist. This brightens up the dish significantly and complements the richness of the cheese and sauce beautifully.
- Nutty Crunch: Top your enchiladas with toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas) before serving for an unexpected crunch. This adds texture and a nutty flavor that will surprise and delight your family at dinner time.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into the filling for a deep, smoky essence. This slight adjustment transforms your enchiladas into something truly special, offering warmth and depth with every bite.
Make Ahead Options
For those busy weeknights, these Chicken Enchiladas are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor homemade goodness without the rush. You can prepare the filling ahead of time by mixing 2 cups of shredded chicken, 1 cup of chopped onion, 1 cup of sour cream, and ½ cup of enchilada sauce in a bowl. This mixture can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can soften the corn tortillas and assemble the enchiladas (up to step 5) a day in advance, placing them in the baking dish ready to go. When you're ready to serve, simply pour over the remaining enchilada sauce and sprinkle with cheese before baking for 20-25 minutes until bubbly. This way, you'll enjoy delicious Chicken Enchiladas with minimal effort after a long day!
Your Chicken Enchiladas Questions, Answered
What type of chicken should I use for the filling?
For the best flavor and texture, use shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken. Both options are convenient and allow the spices and sauces to shine through in your enchiladas.
Can I substitute sour cream in the filling?
Absolutely! If you're looking for a lighter option or a dairy-free alternative, try using Greek yogurt or a plant-based sour cream. Both will provide creaminess while still keeping the flavors intact.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, until heated through.
Can I freeze chicken enchiladas?
Yes, you can freeze assembled but unbaked enchiladas! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
What if my tortillas tear when assembling?
If your corn tortillas are tearing, they may not be pliable enough. Try warming them slightly longer in a skillet until they’re soft and flexible. You can also wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for about 30 seconds to achieve that perfect softness.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This delicious recipe yields about 4 servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or cozy gathering. Each serving is hearty and satisfying at approximately 350 calories, so everyone will leave the table happy!
Chicken Enchiladas
Ingredients
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, chopped onion, sour cream, and ½ cup of enchilada sauce. Mix well.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Soften corn tortillas by heating them in a skillet for a few seconds on each side.
- Spread ¼ cup of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture, roll them up, and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
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