These Chicken Enchiladas Recipe are sure to become your favorite family dinner. Packed with juicy chicken, homemade enchilada sauce, and gooey cheese, they bring comfort food to a whole new level. Perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions, this recipe is easy to prepare and bursting with flavor that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious enchiladas ready for the oven.
- Flavor Explosion: The homemade enchilada sauce adds a rich, spicy flavor that elevates the dish to restaurant-quality.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy these enchiladas any night of the week or serve them at gatherings and parties.
- Cheesy Goodness: Topped with melted cheese, these enchiladas are a comforting treat that satisfies all cheese lovers.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will devour these tasty enchiladas, making them a hit at the dinner table.
Tools and Preparation
Before you get started on this Chicken Enchiladas Recipe, gather your tools for a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish
- Spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: Ideal for sautéing onions and garlic to build flavor in your enchilada sauce.
- Baking dish: Perfectly holds the rolled enchiladas for even baking and easy serving.
Ingredients
For the Enchilada Sauce
- 2 tbsp canola oil
- 1 yellow onion (chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (crushed)
- 2 tbsp all purpose flour
- 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 1 chipotle in adobo sauce
- 1 tbsp adobo sauce from chipotles
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 2 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tsp white granulated sugar
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt (more or less per taste)
For the Enchiladas
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2-3 chicken breasts)
- 6 soft flour tortillas
- 10 oz shredded Mexican cheese mix
How to Make Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt. In a skillet over medium heat, add canola oil. Once hot, cook the seasoned chicken until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from heat and shred using two forks.
Step 2: Make the Enchilada Sauce
In the same skillet, sauté chopped onions until they are translucent. Add crushed garlic and cook for another minute. Sprinkle in flour and stir well to combine. Gradually add diced tomatoes and chicken stock while stirring to create a smooth sauce. Add chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, chili powder, cumin, oregano, sugar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Take a soft tortilla and fill it with shredded chicken and a sprinkle of cheese. Roll it tightly and place seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
Step 4: Bake
Pour extra enchilada sauce over rolled tortillas and top with remaining cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Now enjoy your delicious Chicken Enchiladas!
How to Serve Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Serving Chicken Enchiladas is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. These enchiladas are flavorful on their own, but pairing them with the right sides can elevate the meal even further.
With Fresh Toppings
- Chopped Cilantro: A sprinkle of cilantro adds a fresh, herbal note that complements the rich flavors of the enchiladas.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream provides a creamy contrast and balances the spiciness of the dish.
- Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado slices offer a smooth texture and healthy fats for a satisfying bite.
With Sides
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy Mexican rice is a classic side that pairs well with enchiladas, complementing their savory taste.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and richness, making your meal more filling.
- Guacamole: This creamy dip enhances flavor and provides additional texture for your palate.
With Drinks
- Horchata: This traditional Mexican drink offers a sweet and refreshing contrast to spicy enchiladas.
- Margaritas: A classic margarita adds a zesty kick that elevates the overall dining experience.
How to Perfect Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Creating the best Chicken Enchiladas requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and produce enhance flavors significantly, ensuring your enchiladas taste vibrant and delicious.
- Homemade Sauce: Making your own enchilada sauce allows you to control the spice level and flavor profile for a personalized touch.
- Don’t Overfill Tortillas: Filling tortillas too much can lead to messy servings; stick to about 1/4 cup of filling for optimal results.
- Bake Until Bubbling: Ensure your enchiladas are baked until the cheese is bubbly and golden for an appealing presentation and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Pairing side dishes with Chicken Enchiladas can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options that complement this recipe beautifully.
- Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice adds sweetness and crunch.
- Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime offers brightness and freshness alongside the richness of enchiladas.
- Corn Tortilla Chips: Crispy chips served with salsa or guacamole make for a crunchy appetizer or side.
- Cabbage Slaw: A light slaw with cabbage, carrots, and lime provides crunch and acidity to balance out hearty enchiladas.
- Black Bean Salad: A protein-packed salad with black beans, corn, and peppers adds color and nutrition to your plate.
- Zucchini Fritters: These crispy fritters are a great way to incorporate veggies into your meal while being deliciously satisfying.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Chicken Enchiladas Recipe. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the sauce: Not using enough enchilada sauce can lead to dry enchiladas. Make sure to generously coat the tortillas before rolling them.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
- Using cold tortillas: Cold tortillas may crack when rolled. Warm them briefly in the microwave or on a skillet for better flexibility.
- Under-seasoning the filling: A bland filling will result in tasteless enchiladas. Don’t be shy with spices; taste and adjust as you cook.
- Neglecting cheese distribution: Don’t skimp on cheese or spread it unevenly. Layer cheese between and on top of the enchiladas for that delicious melty goodness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover chicken enchiladas in an airtight container.
- They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
- Wrap enchiladas tightly in foil or plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
- They will last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a little water and cover until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this Chicken Enchiladas Recipe.
How can I customize my Chicken Enchiladas Recipe?
You can customize your enchiladas by adding different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini or using different types of cheese based on your preference.
Can I make Chicken Enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the enchiladas ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to bake time if they are cold from the fridge.
What sides pair well with Chicken Enchiladas?
Serve your Chicken Enchiladas with rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
Is this Chicken Enchiladas Recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! These enchiladas reheat well, making them great for meal prep throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Enchiladas Recipe is not only comforting but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to experiment with ingredients and customize it to your liking. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these enchiladas are sure to impress!
Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Chicken Enchiladas Recipe that promises to become a family favorite. These enchiladas are filled with juicy, seasoned chicken, smothered in a rich homemade enchilada sauce, and topped with gooey melted cheese. They are perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, offering a burst of flavor that everyone will adore.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 soft flour tortillas
- 10 oz shredded Mexican cheese mix
- 2 tbsp canola oil
- 1 yellow onion (chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (crushed)
- 2 tbsp all purpose flour
- 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 1 chipotle in adobo sauce
- 1 tbsp adobo sauce from chipotles
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 2 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tsp white granulated sugar
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt (more or less per taste)
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt and cook in a skillet with oil until golden brown. Shred the chicken.
- In the same skillet, prepare the enchilada sauce by sautéing onions and garlic, adding flour, tomatoes, chicken stock, chipotle peppers, and spices; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread enchilada sauce in a baking dish. Fill tortillas with shredded chicken and cheese; roll tightly and place seam-side down.
- Top filled tortillas with remaining sauce and cheese; cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 enchilada (approximately 225g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
