Chicken enchiladas are a classic Mexican dish that many people love to eat. They are not just tasty but also very versatile. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with family and friends. The blend of flavors and comfort from this meal can make anyone feel at home. You can easily modify this recipe based on what you have in your kitchen, making it both an approachable and exciting meal option.
Why Make This Recipe
Making your own chicken enchiladas at home can be a rewarding experience. You have full control over the ingredients, which means you can ensure everything is fresh and to your taste. Plus, it allows you to avoid preservatives and added sugars often found in store-bought meals.
This recipe is especially convenient because it takes around 30–40 minutes from start to finish. With just a few simple steps, you can serve a delicious and hearty meal. Whether you’re trying to feed a family of four or prepare food for a small get-together, this dish is made to please. It can be a fun activity for kids as they can help with assembling the enchiladas.
Moreover, you can elevate your cooking skills by learning how to make authentic enchiladas. This dish has layers of flavor from the spices to the cheesy filling, paired with the warm and soft tortillas, creating an inviting comfort food experience. There is something truly gratifying about preparing meals from scratch.
How to Make Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas
Ingredients
Here’s what you will need to prepare these scrumptious chicken enchiladas:
- 2 cups shredded chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1/2 cup diced onions (optional)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
These ingredients come together to create a meal that is satisfying and flavorful. You can use leftover chicken or even store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time.
Directions
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to preheat so that your enchiladas cook evenly.
Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, half a cup of the enchilada sauce, shredded cheese, onions (if using), garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until fully combined.
Warm the Tortillas: To make the tortillas easier to roll, warm them up slightly. You can place them in a skillet for a few moments on low heat or microwave them for about 15-20 seconds until they are pliable.
Fill the Tortillas: Take some of the chicken mixture and spoon it evenly onto each tortilla. Roll the tortillas tightly but gently, placing each one seam side down in a greased baking dish.
Pour the Sauce: Take the remaining enchilada sauce and pour it over the rolled tortillas. If you like extra cheese, you can sprinkle some on top.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25 minutes, or until your enchiladas are heated through, bubbly, and the cheese on top is melted.
Garnish and Serve: Once they are ready, remove them from the oven and sprinkle with chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Serve Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas
Chicken enchiladas can be served in various ways that will enhance the flavor. You can serve them with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans for a complete meal. A small fresh salad with avocado and tomatoes can add a nice crunch to the dish.
Consider offering toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or salsa on the side to allow guests to customize their enchiladas. Additionally, a squeeze of fresh lime juice can bring out the flavors of the dish beautifully. Presenting the enchiladas on a colorful plate garnished with cilantro will make for an eye-catching meal.
How to Store Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas
If you have leftovers, storing them is easy. First, let the enchiladas cool down to room temperature. You can then transfer them to an airtight container. When stored properly in the refrigerator, your chicken enchiladas should last for about 3-4 days.
If you want to keep them for a longer period, consider freezing them. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. This will help to prevent freezer burn and maintain the flavors. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.
Tips to Make Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas
- Make-Ahead: You can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and keep them covered in the refrigerator. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. It is already cooked, which will save you extra time.
- Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar and Monterey Jack are excellent choices, you can also use pepper jack for a spicy kick or use a blend of cheeses for a richer flavor.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to add diced bell peppers, corn, or black beans to the filling. This will not only enhance the flavor but also add color and nutrition.
- Adjust the Spice: If you like more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a bit of hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
Variations
This recipe is incredibly flexible. Here are some variations you might enjoy:
Vegetarian Enchiladas: Substitute the shredded chicken with sautéed spinach and mushrooms or a mixture of beans. Use cheese and the same enchilada sauce for the filling.
Enchiladas with Green Sauce: Switch out the red enchilada sauce for green sauce. This green tomatillo sauce adds a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
Chicken and Cheese Enchiladas: For a cheesier option, double the cheese in the filling and skip the meat altogether.
Slow Cooker Version: If you prefer, cook the chicken in a slow cooker with spices. It will shred beautifully and add moisture to the enchiladas.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes! You can use shredded beef or pork instead of chicken. Just ensure the meat is cooked and shredded before adding it to the enchiladas.
2. How do I reheat these enchiladas?
You can reheat them in the oven by covering them with foil to keep them from drying out. Heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. The microwave is also an option but can make the tortillas a bit chewy.
3. Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just fill the tortillas and bake them when you are ready to eat.
By following these easy steps and tips, you can create delicious Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas that your family and friends will love! Enjoy your cooking and have a great meal!
Chicken Enchiladas
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure your enchiladas cook evenly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, half a cup of enchilada sauce, shredded cheese, diced onions (if using), garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.
- Warm the tortillas slightly in a skillet or microwave for 15-20 seconds until pliable.
- Spoon the chicken mixture evenly onto each tortilla. Roll them tightly but gently, placing seam side down in a greased baking dish.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle more cheese on top if desired.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, until heated through and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve warm.