These Chicken Enchiladas Recipe is sure to become a family favorite! Packed with tender, juicy chicken and smothered in a rich homemade enchilada sauce, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, the blend of spices and cheese makes these enchiladas irresistible. Enjoy a comforting meal that brings everyone together around the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these delicious enchiladas in no time.
- Flavorful: The combination of spices and homemade sauce enhances the chicken’s natural taste, providing a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Versatile: You can customize the filling with your favorite ingredients or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
- Family-Friendly: These enchiladas are loved by kids and adults alike, making them an excellent choice for family dinners.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare them in advance and bake when ready for a hassle-free meal.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish
- Wooden spoon
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing onions and garlic, ensuring even cooking and flavor development.
- Baking dish: Perfect for holding your rolled enchiladas while they bake to perfection in the oven.
Ingredients
For the 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 Filling
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2–3 chicken breasts)
For Assembly
- salt
- 6 soft flour tortillas
- 10 oz shredded Mexican cheese mix
How to Make Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add some canola oil.
- Once hot, add chopped onions and crushed garlic; sauté until fragrant.
- Add the chicken breasts to the skillet; cook until no longer pink, about 8–10 minutes on each side.
- Remove from heat and shred chicken using tongs or forks.
Step 2: Make the Enchilada Sauce
- In the same skillet, add flour and stir it into the onion mixture to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in diced tomatoes and chicken stock until smooth.
- Add chipotle, adobo sauce, chili powder, cumin, oregano, sugar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt; simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread a small amount of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Fill each tortilla with shredded chicken and cheese; roll tightly.
- Place rolled tortillas seam-side down into the baking dish.
- Pour remaining enchilada sauce over tortillas; top with remaining cheese.
Step 4: Bake
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Enjoy your flavorful Chicken Enchiladas! They’re perfect for sharing with family or enjoying leftovers throughout the week!
How to Serve Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Serving Chicken Enchiladas is a delightful experience that allows you to customize your meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
With Fresh Toppings
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spiciness of the enchiladas.
- Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings a burst of flavor and color, making your dish visually appealing.
- Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado slices complement the enchiladas nicely and add healthy fats.
Accompanied by Sides
- Spanish Rice: Fluffy Spanish rice serves as a hearty side that pairs perfectly with the flavors of enchiladas.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide additional protein and make for a fulfilling meal.
- Corn Salad: A vibrant corn salad adds sweetness and crunch, balancing the richness of the enchiladas.
Perfect with Drinks
- Margaritas: A classic drink choice that enhances the Mexican flavors in your meal.
- Lemonade: Refreshing lemonade offers a sweet contrast to spicy chicken enchiladas.
How to Perfect Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
To make the best Chicken Enchiladas, consider these helpful tips. They will elevate your dish and impress everyone at your table.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and produce enhance the flavors significantly, making your enchiladas taste more vibrant.
- Homemade Sauce: Making your own enchilada sauce allows you to control the spice levels and ingredients, resulting in a tastier dish.
- Don’t Overfill Tortillas: Filling tortillas just enough ensures they roll easily without tearing, creating a perfect shape for baking.
- Cover with Sauce Generously: Pouring extra sauce over the rolled enchiladas keeps them moist while baking and adds flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Enchiladas can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Guacamole: This creamy dip made from ripe avocados adds richness and is perfect for scooping with tortilla chips.
- Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob slathered in cheese, lime, and spices offers bold flavors that complement enchiladas well.
- Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice provides a refreshing crunch alongside your main dish.
- Black Bean Salad: A tangy black bean salad filled with vegetables is nutritious and adds texture to your plate.
- Zucchini Fritters: These crispy fritters are a delicious way to incorporate veggies into your meal while keeping it light.
- Chips and Salsa: An easy starter that everyone loves; crunchy chips paired with zesty salsa set the tone for a fun meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Chicken Enchiladas can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls. Here are mistakes to watch out for:
- Using store-bought sauce: Homemade enchilada sauce elevates the flavor. Consider making your own for the best taste.
- Overcooking the chicken: Dry chicken ruins enchiladas. Cook just until done, then shred for a juicy filling.
- Not seasoning properly: Underseasoned filling makes for bland enchiladas. Taste as you go and adjust spices to your liking.
- Skipping the cheese layer: Cheese adds creaminess and flavor. Don’t forget to layer it inside and on top for a cheesy delight.
- Choosing the wrong tortillas: Flour tortillas work best for enchiladas. Corn tortillas can break easily, so stick with flour for durability.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
- Wrap individually in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer bag.
- Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to make Chicken Enchiladas Recipe?
To achieve great flavor, use fresh ingredients and season your filling well. Homemade sauce also makes a difference!
Can I customize my Chicken Enchiladas Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or swap chicken for beef or beans for a vegetarian option.
How long do Chicken Enchiladas last?
Chicken Enchiladas can last up to three days in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer when stored properly.
What type of cheese is best for Chicken Enchiladas?
A shredded Mexican cheese blend works well, but feel free to use cheddar or Monterey Jack based on your preference.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Enchiladas Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it to fit your family’s tastes. Whether you enjoy it with extra toppings or prefer it simple, this comfort dish is sure to please everyone at your dinner table. Give it a try!
Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
This Chicken Enchiladas Recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that will become a staple in your household. Featuring tender, shredded chicken enveloped in soft flour tortillas and topped with a rich homemade enchilada sauce, these enchiladas are bursting with flavor. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe allows you to customize the filling to suit your taste preferences. Top with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or avocado slices for an irresistible meal that brings everyone together around the table.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 6 soft flour tortillas
- 10 oz shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 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
- In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant. Add chicken and cook until no longer pink. Shred the cooked chicken.
- In the same skillet, create a roux with flour; gradually whisk in tomatoes and chicken stock. Season with spices and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Fill tortillas with shredded chicken and cheese; roll tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish. Pour sauce over enchiladas and sprinkle with remaining cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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