Comforting Chicken Enchiladas
I love cooking at home, especially when it comes to Mexican dishes. Chicken enchiladas are a favorite of mine. They’re filled with tender chicken, creamy sauce, and melted cheese.
Key Takeaways
- Authentic Mexican-inspired comfort food
- Combines tender shredded chicken, melty cheese, and a rich homemade enchilada sauce
- Prep time of 45 minutes and total time of 1 hour 55 minutes
- Yields 8 servings in a 9×13-inch dish
- Nutritious with 33g of protein per serving
The Ultimate Guide to Comforting Chicken Enchiladas
Get ready for a meal that’s both comforting and delicious. Our guide to cheesy enchiladas features tender shredded chicken and a tasty homemade sauce. These enchiladas are creamy, flavorful, and let you choose your sauce.
What Makes These Enchiladas Special
Our chicken enchiladas are special for many reasons. We use tender shredded chicken as the filling. The homemade sauce, whether salsa verde or green chile, adds a rich flavor. Plus, the cheese and spices make every bite comforting and satisfying.
Key Features of This Recipe
- Tender shredded chicken as the main filling
- Choice between homemade salsa verde or store-bought green chile enchilada sauce
- Perfectly melted and cheesy topping
- Adaptable to both corn and flour tortillas
With these features, our chicken enchiladas will become a family favorite.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Enchiladas
Making delicious chicken enchiladas begins with the right ingredients. This dish is a family favorite, needing a mix of ingredients for that authentic Mexican taste. Let’s explore the key ingredients for these enchiladas to please everyone.
You’ll need about 2 pounds of skinless, boneless chicken breasts. This amount of shredded chicken is perfect for filling. Sour cream and condensed cream of chicken soup add creaminess and richness.
For the spices, use chili powder, onions, green chiles, taco seasoning mix, lime juice, and garlic powder. These ingredients give your enchiladas a great flavor.
- 2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breasts
- Sour cream
- Condensed cream of chicken soup
- Chili powder
- Onions
- Green chiles
- Taco seasoning mix
- Lime juice
- Garlic powder
No enchilada dish is complete without tortillas and cheese. You’ll need corn tortillas and a lot of shredded Cheddar cheese for the layers.
The enchilada sauce is the final touch. You can make your own salsa verde or use a store-bought green enchilada sauce from Hatch, Las Palmas, or Frontera.
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make the best easy dinner and family favorite chicken enchiladas. Get ready to enjoy the flavors of Mexico in your kitchen!
Creating the Creamy Enchilada Sauce
The creamy enchilada sauce is the heart of this comforting Mexican dish. You can make your own salsa verde or buy a green enchilada sauce. For homemade, blend tomatillos, chile peppers, onion, and garlic for a vibrant flavor.
Sauce Preparation Steps
After making the sauce, it’s time to put it all together. Warm the sauce in a saucepan and sauté garlic for aroma. Then, add sour cream and fresh cilantro for a creamy texture.
Seasoning Tips
- Add a dash of chili powder, a squeeze of lime juice, and onion and garlic powder for flavor.
- These seasonings balance the sauce’s richness and add depth to the dish.
- The creamy sauce also softens any spiciness, making the dish comforting.
Learning to make the enchilada sauce is key to a true homemade sauce and mexican cuisine taste. With a few simple steps, you can make your enchiladas incredibly delicious.
Preparing the Chicken Filling
The secret to great chicken enchiladas is the filling. I start by boiling chicken breasts for 10 minutes until they’re not pink anymore. After cooling, I shred the chicken with two forks into small pieces. You can also use leftover chicken, poached chicken, or slow cooker chicken to make it easier.
Once the chicken is shredded, I sauté diced onions until they’re soft. Then, I add diced green chiles, taco seasoning, and spices. This mix cooks for 20 minutes, blending the flavors. The result is a easy dinner full of Southwest taste.
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 3/4 lbs)
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Now that the shredded chicken filling is ready, I’m almost done with the chicken enchiladas. Next, I’ll show you how to pick and prepare the perfect tortillas!
Choosing and Preparing Your Tortillas
The heart of a tasty chicken enchilada is the tortillas. You can pick between corn or flour tortillas. Each type brings its own special taste and texture to the dish.
Corn vs. Flour Tortillas
Corn tortillas are the traditional choice for mexican cuisine. They have a rich, earthy flavor and a strong texture. This makes them great for holding enchilada fillings and sauces.
Flour tortillas, on the other hand, are softer and more flexible. Some people like them for their comfort food enchiladas because of this.
Proper Tortilla Handling Techniques
- For corn tortillas, softening them before filling is key. Coat them with oil and bake at 350°F for 3-4 minutes. This prevents them from cracking or tearing.
- Use 8-inch diameter tortillas for both types. They’re easier to handle and fill. Larger tortillas can be too big and hard to roll.
Choosing and preparing your tortillas right is crucial. It makes your chicken enchiladas a true mexican cuisine delight.
Assembly Techniques for Perfect Enchiladas
Making delicious chicken enchiladas is all about the assembly. This dish is a family favorite that needs careful steps to keep the enchiladas together. Let’s explore how to assemble these tasty Mexican treats.
Begin by spreading a thin layer of enchilada sauce at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. This makes a tasty base for the enchiladas. Then, fill each tortilla with about 1/5 of the chicken mixture and some Mexican cheese. Roll the tortilla and place it seam-side down in the dish.
- Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Fill each tortilla with 1/5 of the chicken mixture and 5 tablespoons of shredded cheese.
- Roll the tortilla around the filling and place it seam-side down in the baking dish.
This method helps the cheesy enchiladas keep their shape while baking and serving. The way they’re arranged ensures even cooking. This results in a dish full of flavor that everyone will love.
Cheese Selection and Layering Strategy
Making the perfect cheesy enchiladas is all about choosing the right cheese and layering it well. The secret to a great comfort food is finding the perfect mix of flavors and textures. A well-chosen cheese blend can make all the difference.
Best Cheese Combinations
For the tastiest and most melty enchiladas, mix different cheeses. Here are some top picks:
- Cheddar – for its classic flavor and great melting
- Monterey Jack – for a creamy, smooth feel
- Mexican Cheese Blend – for a true Mexican taste
- Oaxaca Cheese – for a soft, stringy melt
Melting Techniques
To get the cheese to melt perfectly, spread it evenly. Put cheese in the filling and on top of the enchiladas. Bake at 325°F (165°C) until it’s bubbly and golden.
Choosing the right cheese mix and mastering melting can take your chicken enchiladas to new heights. Your dish will look great and taste amazing.
Baking Instructions and Temperature Guidelines
Getting these easy, crowd-pleasing chicken enchiladas ready is simple. First, heat your oven to a warm 375°F (190°C). This temperature helps the enchiladas cook well without drying out.
Start by covering the assembled enchiladas in your baking dish with enchilada sauce. Sprinkle the remaining 3 cups of shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top. Add some sliced green onions and olives for extra flavor.
Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes. Watch until the cheese melts and the filling is hot. For a crispy top, broil for 2-3 minutes more.
This method ensures your enchiladas turn out perfectly. They’ll be a hit with your family. Serve with your favorite Mexican sides for a full and tasty meal.
Make-Ahead Tips and Storage Solutions
Preparing family favorite dishes like chicken enchiladas is easier with the right tips. These enchiladas taste best when served fresh. But, there are ways to make preparing them more convenient.
Start by making the sauce, chicken filling, and tortillas separately ahead of time. This way, you can assemble the enchiladas just before baking. The sauce can be made a day or two in advance. You can also use a Crock-Pot or rotisserie chicken for the filling.
For the tortillas, you can char them over an open flame for extra flavor. Or, use a mix of corn and flour tortillas to skip frying. This step can really improve the dish’s taste and texture.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. But, the tortillas might get softer as they soak up the sauce. For longer storage, freeze the enchiladas for 2-3 months. Just remember, freezing and thawing can change the texture.
By using these make-ahead tips and storage solutions, you can enjoy delicious chicken enchiladas with little effort. It’s a great family favorite meal for any time.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
Chicken enchiladas are the ultimate mexican cuisine comfort food. They deserve a delightful supporting cast of side dishes. To make a truly crowd-pleasing dish, pair your enchiladas with traditional Mexican accompaniments and tasty garnishes.
Traditional Mexican Accompaniments
No Mexican meal is complete without classic side dishes. Serve your enchiladas with fluffy Mexican rice or zesty cilantro lime rice. Creamy refried beans or hearty black beans are also great choices. Don’t forget fresh pico de gallo, cool guacamole, and crispy tortilla chips for scooping and dipping.
Garnishing Ideas
- Sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves over the top for a pop of color and flavor.
- Add sliced green onions for a subtle onion bite.
- Top with a dollop of sour cream for a creamy contrast.
- Arrange sliced avocado or diced tomatoes for a vibrant, colorful presentation.
These simple garnishes will elevate your chicken enchiladas. They will transform them into a truly crowd-pleasing dish. This dish will showcase the best of Mexican cuisine.
Nutritional Information and Portion Sizes
Enjoying these chicken enchiladas is a treat, but knowing the nutritional facts is key. Each serving, about 1-2 enchiladas, has 710 calories. It also has 36 grams of fat, with 18 grams being saturated. Plus, it has 1,765 milligrams of sodium.
These enchiladas are a family favorite and a beloved comfort food. They offer 42 grams of protein and 53 grams of carbs. You’ll also find 4 grams of fiber and 4 grams of sugar. They’re rich in calcium (509 milligrams) and iron (5 milligrams).
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 710 |
| Total Fat | 36g |
| Saturated Fat | 18g |
| Cholesterol | 126mg |
| Sodium | 1,765mg |
| Carbohydrates | 53g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g |
| Sugars | 4g |
| Protein | 42g |
| Calcium | 509mg |
| Iron | 5mg |
The recipe makes 8 servings, perfect for feeding the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a cozy family favorite or a tasty comfort food, these enchiladas are perfect.
Conclusion
This chicken enchiladas recipe is perfect for family dinners or when you have guests over. It’s creamy, flavorful, and you can make it your own. It’s a crowd-pleasing favorite that will make your home smell amazing.
These enchiladas are a treat for your taste buds. The chicken is seasoned just right, the sauce is creamy, and the cheese is melted to perfection. They’re a mix of tender chicken, warm tortillas, and tasty toppings that will warm your heart.
So, get your ingredients ready and preheat your oven. Let’s make these comforting chicken enchiladas together. Enjoy making this dish and relish every bite with your loved ones.
FAQ
What makes these enchiladas special?
These enchiladas stand out because of their creamy texture and flavorful filling. They offer a choice between homemade salsa verde or store-bought green chile sauce. Plus, they have a perfect mix of cheese and spices.
What are the essential ingredients for this recipe?
You’ll need 2 pounds of chicken breast, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup. Also, chili powder, onions, green chiles, and taco seasoning mix are key. Lime juice, garlic powder, tortillas, Cheddar cheese, enchilada sauce, and black olives are also important.
Can I use homemade or store-bought enchilada sauce?
Yes, you can pick between homemade salsa verde or store-bought green enchilada sauce. Brands like Hatch, Las Palmas, or Frontera work well. The sauce adds richness and can tone down spiciness.
How do I prepare the chicken filling?
First, boil the chicken for about 10 minutes until it’s no longer pink. Let it cool, then shred it. You can also use leftover chicken or try poaching, tender shredding, or slow cooking.
Combine the shredded chicken with sautéed onions, green chiles, taco seasoning, and spices. Simmer for 20 minutes to deepen the flavors.
Should I use corn or flour tortillas?
You can use either flour or corn tortillas. Corn tortillas are more traditional, but flour works well too. For corn tortillas, soften them by lightly coating with oil and baking at 350°F for 3-4 minutes. This prevents them from cracking when rolled.
How do I assemble the enchiladas?
Start by spreading some sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Fill each tortilla with about 1/5 of the chicken mixture and 5 tablespoons of Cheddar cheese. Roll the tortillas around the filling and place them seam-side down in the dish.
What type of cheese should I use?
Use a mix of cheeses for the best flavor and melting. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Mexican cheese blend, or Oaxaca cheese are good choices. Add cheese to both the filling and the top of the enchiladas.
How long should I bake the enchiladas?
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the enchiladas for about 25 minutes. This ensures they’re heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
It’s best to serve these enchiladas fresh, as they can become soggy over time. Don’t make them days ahead or freeze them. Prepare the sauce, filling, and tortillas separately and assemble just before baking.
What should I serve with the enchiladas?
Serve the enchiladas with Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice, and refried beans or creamy black beans. Add fresh pico de gallo, guacamole, and tortilla chips for a complete meal. Garnish with cilantro, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream.