Here’s a flavorful and easy recipe for Chicken Enchiladas, with tender chicken, a rich enchilada sauce, and melted cheese, all wrapped in soft tortillas for a comforting meal!
Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Serves: 4-6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the filling:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the enchiladas:
- 10 small flour tortillas (corn tortillas work as well)
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying tortillas)
Instructions
- Prepare the filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced onion, sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, and salt and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Prepare the tortillas:
- In a skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat.
- Lightly fry each tortilla for about 10-15 seconds per side, just until they become soft but not crispy. This step helps prevent the tortillas from cracking when rolling them up.
- Set the fried tortillas aside on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.
- Assemble the enchiladas:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pour a thin layer of enchilada sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Take each tortilla and fill it with the chicken mixture (about 1/4 cup), then roll it up and place it seam-side down in the dish. Repeat until all tortillas are filled and placed in the dish.
- Top the enchiladas:
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top of the rolled tortillas.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the sauce.
- Bake the enchiladas:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra cilantro, sour cream, or salsa if desired.
Tips for Customization:
- Add veggies: You can mix in sautéed bell peppers, corn, or black beans with the chicken filling for added flavor and texture.
- Spicy version: Add sliced jalapeños to the filling or top the enchiladas with hot sauce before baking.
- Cheese options: Mix in or top with different types of cheese, such as cotija, queso fresco, or a spicy pepper jack.
- Make it lighter: Use low-fat sour cream and cheese or try a light version of enchilada sauce for a healthier take.
Would you like suggestions for sides or drinks to pair with these Chicken Enchiladas?