Chicken Enchilada Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This chicken enchilada recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or meal prep. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and customizable to suit your taste.
- Simple ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples, so you can whip it up without a fuss.
- Comforting and hearty: Filled with tender chicken, gooey cheese, and zesty sauce for a satisfying meal.
- Versatile: Swap in your favorite toppings or add extra veggies to make it your own.
Recipe
Chicken enchiladas are a classic Mexican dish that combines tender shredded chicken, flavorful spices, and a rich sauce, all wrapped in soft tortillas and baked to perfection. This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for a comforting family dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, half of the cheese, green chilies, onion, sour cream, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, ensuring they are fully covered.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and serve warm.
Notes:
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
- Substitute chicken with ground beef or beans for a vegetarian option.
Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Serving: 4-6
Nutrition
This chicken enchilada recipe is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional value per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
What To Serve With It
When I make chicken enchiladas, I love pairing them with invigorating side salads, like a simple avocado and lime mix, to balance the flavors. A hearty bean dish, such as seasoned black beans, always adds great texture and makes the meal feel complete. These sides complement the enchiladas perfectly, and they’re easy to whip up while the main dish bakes.
Refreshing Side Salads
What’s better than a plate of chicken enchiladas? A rejuvenating side salad to balance the richness! I love pairing mine with crisp greens like romaine, spinach, or arugula—they add a fresh crunch that’s so satisfying. To amp up the flavor, I drizzle on zesty dressings, like a tangy lime vinaigrette or a creamy cilantro-lime blend. Sometimes, I’ll toss in cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, or avocado for extra texture. It’s light, bright, and the perfect complement to the savory enchiladas. Trust me, this combo will make your meal feel complete without weighing you down.
Hearty Bean Dishes
Why not add some hearty bean dishes to your chicken enchilada spread? I love using different bean varieties, like black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans, to create dishes that are filling and flavorful. One of my favorite cooking techniques is simmering beans with garlic, onions, and spices until they’re tender and rich. You can also mash them into refried beans or mix them with rice for a simple side. Beans add a great texture and protein boost to your meal. Plus, they’re budget-friendly and quick to prepare. Trust me, they’ll make your enchilada night even more satisfying!
