Name: Chicken Enchilada
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great); 1 (10 oz) can enchilada sauce (red or green); 8-10 small corn tortillas; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; ½ cup sour cream (optional, for serving); ½ cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup diced tomatoes (optional, for garnish); 1-2 jalapeños, sliced (optional, for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make Mexican meal, Chicken Enchiladas are the answer. The combination of succulent chicken, a tangy enchilada sauce, and melty cheese is undeniably satisfying. The best part? You can make these enchiladas ahead of time and bake them when you’re ready to serve. It’s the ultimate comfort food that is both filling and delicious. Plus, you can customize the toppings and spice level, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish!

Ingredients

3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
1 (10 oz) can enchilada sauce (red or green, depending on your preference)
8-10 small corn tortillas
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
½ cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
½ cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup diced tomatoes (optional, for garnish)
1-2 jalapeños, sliced (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken and season with cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the chicken with the spices, and cook for 3-5 minutes until heated through.
Pour ½ cup of the enchilada sauce into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Lightly warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for 15-20 seconds to make them more pliable.
Spoon some of the seasoned chicken mixture into each tortilla, then roll them up tightly and place them seam-side down in the baking dish.
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese on top.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Top with sour cream, chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, and sliced jalapeños, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Storage/Reheating

Leftover Chicken Enchiladas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, until heated through. Enchiladas can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as usual.

FAQs

1. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?

Yes, flour tortillas can be used in place of corn tortillas. They tend to be larger and softer, but the flavor and texture will still work well with the enchilada filling.

2. Can I make Chicken Enchiladas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the enchiladas and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them with plastic wrap or foil and bake when you’re ready.

3. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe! It’s quick, easy, and adds great flavor. Just shred the chicken and use it as directed in the recipe.

4. Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes! If you like more heat, you can use a spicier enchilada sauce (like a green chili sauce or hot red sauce), add diced jalapeños to the filling, or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking.

5. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can swap the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses for any cheese you prefer, such as pepper jack for a spicier flavor, or mozzarella for a more mild option.

6. Can I make these enchiladas with ground chicken or turkey?

Yes! You can substitute ground chicken or turkey for the shredded chicken. Just brown the meat in a skillet with the seasonings before assembling the enchiladas.

7. Can I add vegetables to the chicken filling?

Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the chicken filling for added flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the chicken in the skillet.

8. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes! To make vegetarian enchiladas, substitute the chicken with black beans, zucchini, mushrooms, or a combination of your favorite vegetables. You can also add cheese and enchilada sauce for flavor.

9. Can I use homemade enchilada sauce?

Yes, homemade enchilada sauce is a great addition to this recipe! You can make your own using ingredients like tomatoes, chili powder, garlic, and cumin for a more personalized and flavorful dish.

10. How can I make the enchiladas extra creamy?

To add more creaminess to your Chicken Enchiladas, mix some sour cream or cream cheese into the chicken mixture before rolling the tortillas, or drizzle extra sour cream on top before serving.

Conclusion

Chicken Enchiladas are the perfect balance of rich, flavorful ingredients wrapped in soft tortillas and baked to cheesy perfection. Whether you prefer them mild or spicy, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy. It’s easy to make, customizable, and works well for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or feeding a hungry family. Top with your favorite garnishes, and you’ll have a comforting, satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor!