Name: Creamy Chicken Enchiladas
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works well); 8 flour or corn tortillas; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt); 2 cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, divided; 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies; 1 small onion, finely diced (optional); 1 tbsp olive oil or butter; 2 cups enchilada sauce (red or green); Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These creamy chicken enchiladas are the ultimate comfort food—hearty, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. The creamy filling pairs beautifully with the tangy enchilada sauce, and they can be made ahead for an easy dinner option. They’re also versatile, allowing you to customize the spice level and toppings to your liking.

Ingredients

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

Cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
Flour or corn tortillas
Cream cheese, softened
Sour cream
Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
Green chilies (diced, canned)
Enchilada sauce (red or green)
Onion, finely diced (optional)
Olive oil or butter
Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a skillet, sauté diced onion in olive oil until softened (if using).
In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, green chilies, sautéed onions, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Mix until well combined.
Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
Warm tortillas slightly to make them easier to roll. Place about 1/3 cup of the chicken mixture in each tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in the dish.
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the tortillas, then sprinkle with the rest of the cheese.
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6–8 servings.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: approximately 55 minutes

Variations

Use green enchilada sauce for a milder flavor or red sauce for a bolder taste.
Add black beans or corn to the filling for extra texture and nutrition.
Spice it up with diced jalapeños or hot sauce.
Swap chicken for shredded turkey, beef, or a vegetarian substitute like jackfruit.
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter option.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until heated through. For longer storage, freeze unbaked enchiladas for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

FAQs

Can I make creamy chicken enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them up to a day in advance and bake when ready to serve.

What type of tortillas should I use?

Both flour and corn tortillas work—flour tortillas are softer and easier to roll, while corn adds more authentic flavor.

Can I make these enchiladas spicy?

Yes, add jalapeños, chili powder, or a spicy enchilada sauce for more heat.

Can I freeze chicken enchiladas?

Yes, freeze before baking for best results. Wrap tightly and bake from frozen, adding extra time.

How do I prevent soggy tortillas?

Lightly fry or warm the tortillas before rolling to help them hold up to the sauce.

What cheese is best for enchiladas?

Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a Mexican cheese blend all melt beautifully.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that saves time and adds flavor.

Do I need to cover enchiladas when baking?

Yes, covering with foil helps keep them moist. Remove foil near the end to melt and brown the cheese.

Can I make this dish gluten free?

Yes, just use gluten free tortillas and check that your enchilada sauce is gluten free.

What toppings go well with enchiladas?

Sour cream, avocado slices, diced tomatoes, or extra cilantro all make great toppings.

Conclusion

Creamy chicken enchiladas are a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor. With tender chicken, a rich creamy filling, and melty cheese, they’re perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or gatherings. Versatile and freezer-friendly, this recipe is one you’ll return to again and again whenever you crave a hearty, satisfying meal.