These chicken enchiladas are a warm and tasty treat! Packed with tender chicken, cheese, and flavorful sauce, they’re perfect for a cozy dinner. Plus, they’re super easy to make!
When I make these, my family can’t get enough! I love to serve them with a side of rice and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. You’ll enjoy every cheesy bite! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience. Leftover chicken works well too. If you’re vegetarian, try using black beans or sautéed mushrooms instead!
Enchilada Sauce: Store-bought is quick, but homemade can be tastier. If you’re in a rush, a can of diced tomatoes mixed with spices can serve as a substitute.
Cheese: I love using a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for flavor and melt. If you want a healthier option, consider low-fat cheese or even dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Flour Tortillas: While I prefer flour tortillas for their softness, corn tortillas are a great gluten-free alternative. They provide a nice flavor too.
Fresh Ingredients: Don’t skip on the cilantro! It’s an essential flavor. If you’re not a fan, green onions or parsley can work too.
How Do I Roll My Enchiladas Without Tearing the Tortillas?
Rolling tortillas can be tricky, especially if they crack. Here’s how to keep them intact:
- Warm the tortillas in a microwave for about 20-30 seconds. This makes them more pliable.
- Don’t overfill: Just a small amount of chicken mixture keeps the tortillas from bursting.
- Roll tightly starting from one end and tuck in the filling as you go.
Practice makes perfect! The more you roll, the easier it gets.
How to Make Chicken Enchiladas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce and Toppings:
- 1 cup enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
- Olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
For the Tortillas:
- 8 small flour tortillas
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and 20-25 minutes for baking. So, in total, you’re looking at around 40-45 minutes to make these tasty enchiladas from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your enchiladas will bake perfectly.
2. Prepare the Chicken Filling:
In a mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, half of the enchilada sauce, ground cumin, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until the chicken is well coated with the sauce and spices. This mix will be the delicious filling of your enchiladas!
3. Fill the Tortillas:
Take one flour tortilla and place a generous amount of the chicken mixture in the center. Roll it up tightly and place it seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and chicken mixture until you’ve filled them all.
4. Add Sauce and Cheese:
Once all the rolled tortillas are in the baking dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the enchiladas, covering as much as you can for that cheesy goodness!
5. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them—you want the cheese to be melted and bubbly, and the enchiladas to be heated through.
6. Cool and Garnish:
When they’re done, take the enchiladas out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This is the time to get your toppings ready! Garnish with diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and sliced jalapeños if you like a little heat.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, your chicken enchiladas are ready to serve! Dish them out warm and enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds nice flavor. Just shred or chop the cooked chicken from the rotisserie and use it in place of the cooked chicken in the recipe.
What Can I Substitute for Enchilada Sauce?
If you don’t have enchilada sauce, you can use salsa or even a simple mixture of tomato sauce with a touch of chili powder for added flavor. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning as needed!
How Do I Store Leftover Enchiladas?
Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Freeze Chicken Enchiladas?
Yes! You can freeze unbaked enchiladas. Assemble them in a greased dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
