Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

Make the best homemade Chicken Enchiladas with this easy, cheesy, and flavorful recipe! Packed with tender shredded chicken, creamy enchilada sauce, and melty cheese, these authentic Mexican enchiladas are perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep. Learn how to make restaurant-style chicken enchiladas with simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions. Whether you’re looking for a classic Mexican dish, a make-ahead meal, or a crowd-pleasing comfort food, this baked chicken enchilada recipe will become a family favorite!

Ingredients

• 8 flour tortillas (10-inch, burrito size)
• 1 1/2 lbs chicken breast or thighs
• 3 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/3 cup sour cream
• 4.5 oz diced green chiles (with juice)
• 20 oz mild red enchilada sauce (two 10-oz cans)
• 1 1/4 tsp salt, divided
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 2 1/2 cups shredded cheese (Mexican blend, Four Cheese, or Colby Jack), divided

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
2. If using pre-cooked chicken, shred it and set aside. If cooking fresh, place chicken in a saucepan, cover with water, and season with 1 tsp salt. Bring to a boil and simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until fully cooked. Shred the chicken using two forks.

Make the Enchilada Sauce

3. In a bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sour cream, diced green chiles (with juice), enchilada sauce, 1/4 tsp salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix until well combined.
4. Divide the sauce into two portions: 2/3 of the mixture in one bowl for the filling and the remaining 1/3 in another bowl for topping.

Assemble the Enchiladas

5. Mix the shredded chicken with 2 cups of shredded cheese and the larger portion (2/3) of the enchilada sauce.
6. Spoon the chicken mixture onto the center of each tortilla, roll tightly, and arrange seam-side down in the prepared casserole dish.

Bake

7. Pour the reserved enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese (add more if desired).
8. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Serve warm and enjoy!

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Tips

• For extra flavor, season the chicken with cumin and chili powder before cooking.
• Warm the tortillas slightly before rolling to prevent them from cracking.
• Let the enchiladas rest for a few minutes after baking to help them hold their shape when serving.

Variations and Substitutions

• Meat Options: Swap chicken for shredded beef, pork, or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Sauce Choices: Try green enchilada sauce instead of red for a different flavor.
• Cheese Variations: Use Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a combination of cheeses for a richer taste.
• Low-Carb Option: Use low-carb tortillas or serve the filling over cauliflower rice instead.

FAQs

Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the enchiladas, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I freeze enchiladas?

Absolutely! Assemble them in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen at 375°F for about 45 minutes, covered, then uncover and bake until the cheese is melted.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple side salad.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a drizzle of sour cream.
• Pair with a refreshing drink like horchata or a margarita for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this dish perfect for any night.
• Crowd-pleaser: Packed with flavor, these enchiladas are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare in advance for an easy meal on busy days.
• Customizable: Easily adapt to different tastes and dietary needs.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Enchiladas!