When enjoying easy chicken enchiladas, it’s all about balancing the rich, savory flavors with sides that bring freshness and texture. Mexican black beans are a great option, offering a hearty, earthy contrast to the enchiladas’ richness.
Spanish rice, with its fluffy grains and subtle spice infusion, is a classic pairing that complements the dish perfectly. For a creamy contrast, guacamole adds a fresh, cool touch that works beautifully with the savory and slightly spicy flavors of the enchiladas.
A crunchy corn salad is another fantastic addition, its bright colors and textures offering a refreshing balance to the warm, comforting enchiladas. To finish it off, a spoonful of fresh pico de gallo adds a zesty punch that enhances every bite with a burst of fresh, tangy flavor.
These sides together create a well-rounded, vibrant meal that elevates your chicken enchiladas to new heights.
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Do you ever have one of those days when you crave comfort food but also want something quick? That’s precisely where easy chicken enchiladas come in. They are not just simple to throw together, but they pack a punch of flavor.
Picture this: warm tortillas enveloping tender chicken, smothered in rich sauce and topped with gooey cheese. You won’t find anyone turning those down.
As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, creating accessible, healthy recipes is my passion. My approach combines nutrition with deliciousness.
Believe me, once you try these enchiladas, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without them.
What Are Easy Chicken Enchiladas?
In essence, easy chicken enchiladas are rolled tortillas filled with tender, shredded chicken and smothered in a delightful sauce.
Originating from Mexico, this traditional dish has made its way into homes, adapting to individual tastes and conveniences. Some might use homemade sauces, while others grab a store-bought option. Either way, it delivers on comfort.
What makes these chicken enchiladas particularly appealing is their versatility. You can make them ahead of time, tailor ingredients to your liking, and even modify the recipe to meet dietary preferences. Plus, they are perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers.
What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Easy Chicken Enchiladas?
This recipe deviates from the traditional route by emphasizing simplicity without sacrificing taste. Instead of extensive prep work, we focus on easy steps that yield impressive results.
Choosing to use a three-cheese blend?
That’s just a delectable twist! Additionally, the incorporation of lime juice adds a refreshing kick, setting it apart from standard recipes that may feel flat.
How Does It Taste Like?
Imagine biting into a warm, cheesy tortilla as the flavors of savory chicken intermingle with the spice of enchilada sauce. The tanginess from lime juice cuts through the creaminess of the cheese, providing a delightful contrast.
Each mouthful is bursting with a rich, satisfying taste that invites you back for seconds—or even thirds.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish
Now let’s get to the good stuff. Here are the ingredients you’ll need for your easy chicken enchiladas:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 2 cups of homemade or store-bought enchilada sauce, divided
- 1 ½ cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
- 2 ½ cups shredded three-cheese Mexican blend, divided
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Garnishes:
- finely diced red onions
- fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- creamy sour cream
- shredded romaine lettuce
- crumbled cotija cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions to Create Easy Chicken Enchiladas
Ready to roll? Here’s how to make your easy chicken enchiladas, step by step:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your enchiladas will get perfectly heated and bubbly when they bake.
Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients. If you haven’t done so already, shred the cooked chicken and set it aside. Also, measure out your sauces and cheese.
Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas
Take each tortilla and dip it into the enchilada sauce, coating one side. Then, place about ¼ cup of shredded chicken in the center of the tortilla.
Sprinkle a bit of cheese on top, and then roll the tortilla tightly. Place it seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Repeat until all tortillas are filled and in the dish.
Step 4: Add More Sauce and Cheese
Once all your enchiladas are snug in the dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top. Don’t be shy with that sauce! Then sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top. More cheese means more melty goodness!
Step 5: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it into the oven. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with diced red onions, fresh cilantro, sour cream, lettuce, and cotija cheese. Serve hot, and watch everyone dig in!
Tips & Tricks on Making Chicken Enchiladas
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: It saves time and adds fantastic flavor. Just shred it and mix it with spices.
- Tortilla Flexibility: If you can’t find small tortillas, use larger ones and adjust the filling amount.
- Sauce Variety: Experiment with different sauces like verde or mole for unique flavors.
- Make Ahead: Prepare enchiladas a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate before baking.
- Freeze for Later: These enchiladas freeze wonderfully. Wrap them tightly and store them for up to three months.
Nutrition Information
Easy chicken enchiladas recipe nutrition facts
How Do I Store This Dish?
Leftovers should not go to waste! Store any uneaten enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
For longer storage, freeze them before baking. Wrap each enchilada in plastic wrap and then foil. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
When ready to enjoy, simply bake from frozen, adding additional time to ensure they’re heated through.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Easy Chicken Enchiladas?
Sometimes you want to switch things up. Here are five substitution ideas for your chicken enchiladas:
– Ground Turkey or Beef: Replace shredded chicken with cooked ground turkey or beef. The flavor profile changes, but it’s just as satisfying.
– Beans: For a vegetarian version, swap chicken with black beans or pinto beans for protein and texture.
– Zucchini: Use shredded or diced zucchini for added veggies and an interesting flavor.
– Cheese Varieties: If you prefer a different cheese, try cheddar or pepper jack for a spicy twist.
– Sauce Alternatives: Consider using salsa verde or fire-roasted tomato sauce for a flavor kick.
Easy Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Equipment
- Oven
Ingredients
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 2 cups of homemade or store-bought enchilada sauce divided
- 1 ½ cups cooked shredded chicken breast
- 2 ½ cups shredded three-cheese Mexican blend divided
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Garnishes:
- finely diced red onions
- fresh cilantro leaves chopped
- creamy sour cream
- shredded romaine lettuce
- crumbled cotija cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your enchiladas will get perfectly heated and bubbly when they bake.
Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Gather all your ingredients. If you haven’t done so already, shred the cooked chicken and set it aside. Also, measure out your sauces and cheese.
Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas
- Take each tortilla and dip it into the enchilada sauce, coating one side. Then, place about ¼ cup of shredded chicken in the center of the tortilla.
- Sprinkle a bit of cheese on top, and then roll the tortilla tightly. Place it seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Repeat until all tortillas are filled and in the dish.
Step 4: Add More Sauce and Cheese
- Once all your enchiladas are snug in the dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top. Don’t be shy with that sauce! Then sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top. More cheese means more melty goodness!
Step 5: Bake
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it into the oven. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Once out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with diced red onions, fresh cilantro, sour cream, lettuce, and cotija cheese. Serve hot, and watch everyone dig in!
Notes
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: It saves time and adds fantastic flavor. Just shred it and mix it with spices.
- Tortilla Flexibility: If you can’t find small tortillas, use larger ones and adjust the filling amount.
- Sauce Variety: Experiment with different sauces like verde or mole for unique flavors.
- Make Ahead: Prepare enchiladas a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate before baking.
- Freeze for Later: These enchiladas freeze wonderfully. Wrap them tightly and store them for up to three months.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Yes, flour tortillas work just as well. They will give a slightly different texture but will hold the filling nicely.
2. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply ensure your tortillas and enchilada sauce are certified gluten-free. Many brands offer suitable alternatives.
3. What’s the best way to shred chicken quickly?
Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment can shred cooked chicken in seconds. Just place the chicken in the bowl and mix on low!
4. Can I add vegetables to enchiladas?
Absolutely! Chopped bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms can be delightful additions to your fillings.
5. Is there a way to make enchiladas spicier?
For those who love heat, add some diced jalapeños to the filling or use a spicy enchilada sauce.
Conclusion
Easy chicken enchiladas are more than just a meal; they are an experience that brings people together. With simple ingredients, accessible steps, and delightful flavors, this dish caters to busy weeknights and festive gatherings alike.
Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or as leftovers the next day, they never disappoint.
So, fire up your oven, gather your loved ones, and get ready to indulge in a plateful of cheesy, savory deliciousness! Don’t shy away from experimenting; the world is your enchilada!
