Looking for a quick and tasty meal? Try these Easy Chicken Enchiladas! They come together fast, making dinner stress-free. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a comforting dish that your whole family will love. Plus, you can mix and match flavors to suit your taste. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will have you coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
Detailed List of Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
– 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– ½ cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 8 small flour tortillas
– 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
– ½ cup corn (fresh or frozen)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
The ingredients for Easy Chicken Enchiladas are simple and tasty. You need cooked shredded chicken, which adds protein and flavor. I love using sharp cheddar cheese for its rich taste. Cream cheese makes the filling creamy and smooth. Enchilada sauce gives the dish a zesty kick.
Make sure to have garlic powder and cumin in your spice rack. They add warmth to the dish. For the base, I choose small flour tortillas. They hold the filling well and are soft to bite. Black beans and corn add texture and nutrition. Lastly, don’t forget salt and pepper to make everything pop!
Optional Toppings
– Sour cream
– Salsa
– Avocado slices
Optional toppings can really elevate your meal. I recommend sour cream for creaminess. Salsa adds a fresh, zesty note. Avocado slices bring in healthy fats and taste great. Feel free to mix and match these toppings to suit your taste! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish with enchilada sauce.
Start by setting your oven. This step is key for cooking the enchiladas evenly. While the oven heats, grab your baking dish. Coat the bottom of the dish with half a cup of enchilada sauce. This helps prevent sticking and adds flavor.
Filling the Tortillas
– Mix the chicken filling ingredients together.
– Roll the tortillas with the filling and place them in the baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, cream cheese, and half a cup of sharp cheddar cheese. Add garlic powder, cumin, black beans, corn, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything blends nicely. This filling is what makes your enchiladas tasty.
Now, take a tortilla and scoop 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture into the center. Roll it up tightly and place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat this for all tortillas until you finish the filling.
Baking Instructions
– Bake covered and then uncovered for optimal cheese texture.
– Tips for checking doneness.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. This keeps the heat in and makes the filling warm. After 20 minutes, remove the foil. Bake for another 10 minutes. This helps the cheese melt and turn golden.
To check if they are done, look for bubbly cheese and a light golden color. If you see this, your enchiladas are ready! Enjoy your delicious meal.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
– Use leftover chicken for quicker preparation.
– Adjust spice level to taste with optional ingredients.
Using cooked chicken cuts down your time. Shredded rotisserie chicken works great too. You can add jalapeños if you like heat. Or use mild cheese for a softer flavor.
Presentation Tips
– Serve with sour cream and cilantro.
– Add a side of salsa for extra flavor.
For a nice look, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top. A scoop of sour cream adds creaminess. Serve with a bowl of salsa for dipping. This gives your meal a fresh kick.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Overstuffing tortillas leading to spills.
– Not preheating the oven properly.
Be careful not to pack too much filling into each tortilla. This helps keep them intact. Always preheat your oven. This ensures your enchiladas cook evenly and get bubbly.
Variations
Vegetarian Option
You can easily make these enchiladas vegetarian. Just swap the chicken for black beans or tofu. Both options add protein and flavor. Black beans give a creamy texture. Tofu absorbs the flavors well. You can season tofu with spices to match the dish. This swap makes the meal just as tasty and satisfying.
Different Sauces
Want to change up the flavor? Try a green enchilada sauce instead! It adds a zesty kick. The green sauce pairs well with the chicken and cheese. If you love spicy food, go for a red sauce with a kick. Each sauce brings a unique twist to the meal. Feel free to mix and match for your perfect plate!
Ingredient Swaps
Using different cheese can make your enchiladas special. You can try Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese. These cheeses melt nicely and add unique flavors. Mixing cheeses can also give a great taste. Experiment with your favorites to find the best combo. Your enchiladas will be even more delicious!
For the full recipe, check out Easy Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas.
Storage Info
Refrigerator Storage
To store leftovers, cool the enchiladas first. Place them in an airtight container. They can stay in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. This way, you keep them fresh and tasty.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze enchiladas before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap them tightly in foil. For after baking, let them cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe container. They last up to 3 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. For reheating, bake them at 350°F (175°C) until hot. This keeps the tortillas soft and the cheese melted. Enjoy your easy chicken enchiladas again! For the full recipe, check out the Easy Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas .
FAQs
How do I make Easy Chicken Enchiladas from scratch?
To make Easy Chicken Enchiladas, start by mixing cooked shredded chicken with cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, cumin, black beans, corn, salt, and pepper. This mix is the heart of your enchiladas. Next, place some filling in a tortilla, roll it up, and lay it seam-side down in a baking dish. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolls and sprinkle with cheese. Bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes. This method ensures a tasty and quick meal. For detailed steps, check the Full Recipe.
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Yes, you can use corn tortillas instead of flour. Corn tortillas add a unique flavor and texture. They are also gluten-free, which is great for those with gluten allergies. Keep in mind that corn tortillas may break more easily when rolling. To help with this, warm them slightly in a pan or microwave before use. This will make them more pliable.
What sides go well with Chicken Enchiladas?
Chicken Enchiladas taste great with various sides. Here are some ideas:
– Mexican rice
– Refried beans
– Fresh guacamole
– Salsa
– A simple green salad
These sides complement the flavors of the enchiladas and add freshness to your meal.
How long does it take to cook Chicken Enchiladas?
Cooking Chicken Enchiladas takes about 30 to 40 minutes. This includes 20 minutes covered and 10 minutes uncovered for the cheese to melt and bubble. Prepping the ingredients only takes about 15 minutes. So, in less than an hour, you can enjoy a delicious meal.
Can I prepare enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare enchiladas ahead of time. Assemble them and cover the baking dish with plastic wrap. Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This saves time on busy days. You can also freeze them before baking. Just remember to thaw them overnight in the fridge if you freeze them.
Full Recipe Link
– Easy Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas
This blog shared all you need for tasty chicken enchiladas. We listed simple ingredients and guided you through each step. You learned tips to make cooking easier and how to avoid common mistakes. Flavor twists and storage ideas help keep things fun.
Now you can create these enchiladas to impress friends and family. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious dish!
