The Best Chicken Enchiladas You’ll Ever Make!

Who Is This Recipe For?

Are you a busy home cook looking for an easy yet delicious meal? Maybe you love Mexican cuisine but want a homemade version that’s healthier and more customizable? If so, this recipe Chicken Enchiladas is for you! It’s also perfect for meal prep, potlucks, and cozy family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make – No complicated steps, just simple ingredients.
• Bold, authentic flavors – A perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and cheesiness.
• Versatile – Swap ingredients to fit dietary needs and preferences.
• Perfect for leftovers – Tastes just as good the next day!

Ingredients for Chicken Enchiladas

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
• 8 small flour or corn tortillas
• 2 cups enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for topping)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional, for garnish)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Baking dish (9×13-inch recommended)
• Cheese grater
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Aluminum foil

How to Make Chicken Enchiladas (Step-by-Step Guide)

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling

1. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
2. Add shredded chicken, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes.
3. Stir in 1/2 cup enchilada sauce and mix until evenly coated. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Assemble the Enchiladas

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease your baking dish with cooking spray.
3. Place a scoop of the chicken mixture in each tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
4. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the tortillas and sprinkle with shredded cheese.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

1. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
3. Let cool slightly before serving.

Tips for the Best Chicken Enchiladas

• Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful shortcut.
• Warm tortillas before rolling to prevent cracking.
• Customize the spice level by adding or reducing chili powder.
• Make it creamy by adding a dollop of sour cream inside the filling.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for black beans or roasted veggies.
• Protein Swaps: Try ground beef, shredded pork, or even shrimp.
• Different Sauces: Use green enchilada sauce for a tangy twist!

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze individual portions wrapped in foil for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes.

What to Serve with Chicken Enchiladas

• Side Dishes: Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh avocado salad.
• Drinks: Pair with a classic margarita, agua fresca, or a cold Mexican beer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble them in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I use store-bought enchilada sauce?
Absolutely! Just choose a high-quality brand or try making your own for extra freshness.

3. Are corn or flour tortillas better?
Both work great! Corn tortillas offer a more traditional taste, while flour tortillas hold up better when rolling.

4. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use corn tortillas and check that your enchilada sauce is gluten-free.

5. What’s the best cheese for enchiladas?
A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack creates the best flavor and melty texture.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Now that you have this amazing chicken enchilada recipe, it’s time to get cooking! Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prep, this dish is sure to impress. If you loved this recipe, share it with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes!

The Best Chicken Enchiladas You’ll Ever Make!

Recipe by mommyplates.comCuisine: Mexican

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Calories

450

kcal

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

• 1 cup enchilada sauce

• 8 small flour tortillas

• ½ cup diced onions

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• ½ teaspoon chili powder

• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Directions

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, ½ cup cheddar cheese, ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese, diced onions, garlic powder, cumin, and chili powder.
• Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
• Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture, roll them up, and place them seam-side down in the dish.
• Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas.
• Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
• Bake for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm.