Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

Madeline

Everyday Culinary Delights

Introduction

Chicken enchiladas are a delightful Mexican dish that brings together tender chicken, flavorful spices, and a rich sauce, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. With layers of cheese and a variety of toppings, these enchiladas offer a taste explosion that will satisfy your cravings.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken breast – 2 cups, cooked and shredded
Tortillas – 8 large flour or corn tortillas
Enchilada sauce – 2 cups, store-bought or homemade
Shredded cheese – 1.5 cups, Cheddar or Mexican blend
Onion – 1/2 cup, diced
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Cumin – 1 teaspoon
Chili powder – 1 teaspoon
Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
Pepper – 1/4 teaspoon
Sour cream – for serving (optional)
Fresh cilantro – for garnish (optional)

Prep Time

The preparation time for chicken enchiladas is approximately 20 minutes. This includes shredding the chicken, chopping the vegetables, and assembling the ingredients needed for the dish.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cook time is around 25 minutes. Therefore, the total time to prepare and cook the chicken enchiladas is about 45 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 8 enchiladas, serving 4 to 6 people, depending on serving size.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you are using raw chicken, cook it in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, about 15-20 minutes. Shred the cooked chicken using two forks and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a saucepan, combine your choice of enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, and spices. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally for about 5-10 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Tortillas

Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave to make them pliable. This step helps prevent the tortillas from cracking when you fill them.

Step 4: Fill the Tortillas

Take a warmed tortilla and spoon a portion of the shredded chicken onto the center. Optionally, add cheese and chopped vegetables before rolling the tortilla tightly around the filling.

Step 5: Assemble the Enchiladas

Place the filled tortillas seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Repeat this process until all tortillas are filled and arranged in the dish.

Step 6: Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the assembled enchiladas, making sure each tortilla is well covered. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the sauce.

Step 7: Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 8: Serve

Once baked, remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. You can garnish with sour cream, avocado, cilantro, or any other preferred toppings.

Notes

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to substitute the chicken with beef, beans, or vegetables for a vegetarian option.

Storage Guidelines

Leftover enchiladas can be covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat leftovers, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave for a quick option.

Spice Level Adjustment

Adjust the level of spices in the sauce according to your taste preference, and consider adding jalapeños for extra heat.

Cook techniques

Shredding Chicken

Shredding cooked chicken can be done using two forks or a stand mixer. For a quick method, simply place the chicken in the mixer with the paddle attachment and mix on low speed until shredded.

Making Enchilada Sauce

Homemade enchilada sauce can be quickly made by sautéing onions and garlic, then adding chili powder, diced tomatoes, and spices. Simmer until combined and flavorful.

Rolling Enchiladas

To roll enchiladas, soften tortillas by briefly heating them in a skillet or microwave. Place the filling in the center, fold the sides over, and then roll tightly from one end to the other.

Baking Enchiladas

Place rolled enchiladas in a baking dish, cover them with sauce and cheese, and bake in the preheated oven until bubbly and golden on top.

Serving Enchiladas

Let the enchiladas cool slightly after baking. Serve them with toppings like sour cream, chopped cilantro, or avocado for extra flavor.

FAQ

Can I use a different protein for these enchiladas?

Yes, you can substitute shredded beef, pork, or beans for a vegetarian option.

How can I make the enchiladas spicier?

Add jalapeños or additional chili powder to the filling or the sauce to increase the heat.

Can I prepare enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time, cover them, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

What can I serve with enchiladas?

Enchiladas are great served with rice, beans, or a salad on the side.

How do I store leftover enchiladas?

Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave.

Conclusion

The chicken enchiladas are a delightful dish that brings a taste of Mexican cuisine into your home. With their creamy filling and zesty sauce, they are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether served for dinner or at a gathering, these enchiladas offer a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by everyone.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetarian Enchiladas

Try replacing chicken with a mix of beans, cheese, and your favorite vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.

Beef Enchiladas

Substitute shredded beef for chicken to create a rich and hearty variation of the classic enchiladas.

Seafood Enchiladas

Use shrimp or crab for a coastal twist on enchiladas, combined with a creamy sauce for added flavor.

Enchilada Casserole

Layer tortillas, filling, and cheese in a baking dish for a hearty enchilada casserole that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.

Breakfast Enchiladas

Fill corn tortillas with scrambled eggs, cheese, and chorizo for a filling breakfast option that’s easy to prepare.

Spicy Chipotle Enchiladas

Add chipotle peppers to the sauce for a smoky and spicy kick that will elevate your enchilada experience.

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