Flavor-Packed Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These Flavor-Packed Chicken Enchiladas are a delightful Mexican comfort food, loaded with tender chicken, zesty sauce, and melted cheese. Perfect for any family dinner!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Sour cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, 1/2 cup enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, onion, cumin, and chili powder. Mix until well combined.
- Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place a generous amount of the chicken mixture in each tortilla, roll them up tightly, and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top of the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with sour cream if desired.
Notes
Feel free to customize your enchiladas by adding veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. These enchiladas can be frozen before baking for a quick meal later!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 30g
When it comes to comfort food that hits all the right notes, chicken enchiladas are in a league of their own. Combining tender chicken, a perfectly spiced sauce, and creamy melted cheese, they’re not just delicious—they’re also a fantastic way to bring people together. Whether you’re looking for a hearty family dinner or a dish to impress your friends, these enchiladas deliver on every front. Let’s dive into the full recipe and explore some tips and tricks along the way!
Ingredients and Preparation Method
Before we roll up these tasty enchiladas, make sure you’ve got everything on hand. Below is a list of ingredients for the filling, sauce, and assembly. Trust us—every bite will be worth the prep!
For the Chicken Filling:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken makes this easy)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese (optional but highly recommended)
For the Enchilada Sauce:
- 1 ½ cups tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 10 corn tortillas
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream (optional topping)
- Sliced avocado or guacamole (optional)
Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onions until they become translucent—around 3 to 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, letting that wonderful aroma fill your kitchen. Now, add the shredded chicken along with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the chicken is well-coated and heated through. If you’re sneaking in a few bites of the filling, don’t worry—we won’t judge!
Step 2: Make the Enchilada Sauce
In a saucepan, combine the tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce over low heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend. For a smooth, restaurant-style sauce, you can blend it after it cools slightly. This sauce is going to drench your enchiladas with all the right flavors.
Step 3: Soften the Tortillas
The key to perfectly rolled enchiladas is soft tortillas that don’t crack. Heat a bit of oil in a pan and fry each tortilla for 10-15 seconds per side. This step not only softens the tortillas but also adds flavor. Drain them on paper towels and get ready for the fun part—assembly!
Step 4: Assemble the Enchiladas
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread about ¼ cup of the enchilada sauce at the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking. Take a softened tortilla, add a generous spoonful of the chicken filling to the center, and roll it up tightly. Place it seam-side down in the dish. Continue until all the tortillas and filling are used.
Step 5: Cover with Sauce and Bake
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, ensuring they are fully covered. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top—go ahead, don’t be shy with the cheese! Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with a side of sour cream, avocado slices, or guacamole. These enchiladas are best enjoyed hot and fresh, preferably with good company.
Why You Should Make These Chicken Enchiladas
1. Protein-Packed Powerhouse
Chicken enchiladas offer a great source of lean protein, helping with muscle repair and keeping you full for hours. For fitness enthusiasts, this dish is a great way to refuel after a workout.
2. Layers of Flavor in Every Bite
From the smoky paprika to the savory chicken, every bite of these enchiladas is packed with flavor. The combination of spices, cheese, and sauce creates a delightful fusion that will make your taste buds dance.
3. Endless Customization Options
Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or food adventurers, this recipe can adapt. Swap chicken for ground beef or plant-based protein for a vegetarian version. Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition. You’re in control!
4. Clean and Wholesome Ingredients
By using fresh herbs, corn tortillas, and homemade sauce, you know exactly what’s going into your food. Plus, corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, making this dish perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
5. A Meal for Any Occasion
These enchiladas are ideal for everything from family dinners to potlucks. They also reheat beautifully, so they’re an excellent option for meal prepping or making ahead for busy nights.
Tips and Tricks to Elevate Your Enchilada Game
1. Rotisserie Chicken to the Rescue
Using rotisserie chicken saves time without sacrificing flavor. Just shred the meat, and you’re all set.
2. Make the Sauce Ahead of Time
Prepare the sauce a day or two in advance and store it in the fridge. This way, you’ll have less to worry about when it’s time to assemble the enchiladas.
3. Freezer-Friendly for Busy Days
Assemble the enchiladas, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze. When you’re ready to eat, pop them in the oven and bake for an extra 10-15 minutes. Dinner is served!
4. Spice it Up (or Down)
Tailor the heat to your liking. For milder enchiladas, use less chili powder. If you love spice, add jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce or filling.
The Cultural Roots of Enchiladas
Did you know that enchiladas trace their origins back to the Aztec civilization? The indigenous people used tortillas to wrap small fish as a portable meal. Over the centuries, the dish evolved to include meat, cheese, and rich sauces, becoming a staple of Mexican cuisine. Today, enchiladas are enjoyed worldwide, with variations that reflect local tastes and preferences. But at their core, they remain a celebration of Mexican culinary tradition—comforting, flavorful, and meant to be shared.
Final Thoughts: Why Chicken Enchiladas Will Win Your Heart
There’s something truly magical about a well-made enchilada. It’s more than just food—it’s an experience that connects you with friends, family, and the rich traditions of Mexican cuisine. These chicken enchiladas strike the perfect balance between bold flavors and comforting textures.
As Emma Lafifi would say, “A great meal is about more than just eating—it’s about creating memories.” And with these enchiladas, you’ll have plenty of memories worth savoring.
So, next time you’re wondering what to make for dinner, don’t hesitate. Whip up a batch of these mouthwatering enchiladas, sit back, and enjoy the magic that happens when good food brings people together. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a lively dinner party, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Happy cooking—and even happier eating!