Introduction

Creamy Chicken Spinach Mushroom Enchiladas are a delightful twist on traditional enchiladas. These indulgent rolls are packed with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and mushrooms, all enveloped in a creamy sauce that elevates the flavor profile. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special gathering, this dish promises to satisfy and impress.

Ingredients

Chicken breasts – 2 cups cooked, shredded
Spinach – 2 cups fresh
Mushrooms – 1 cup sliced
Cream cheese – 8 ounces
Sour cream – 1 cup
Shredded cheese – 1 cup (Mexican blend works well)
Flour tortillas – 8 large
Chicken broth – 1 cup
Garlic – 2 cloves minced
Onion – 1 small diced
Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
Salt and pepper – to taste
Cumin – 1 teaspoon

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 8 enchiladas

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the garlic, mushrooms, and spinach. Sauté for an additional 4-5 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the spinach is wilted.

Add Chicken and Seasonings

Stir in the cooked, shredded chicken. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat. Mix well to combine the flavors.

Incorporate Cream Cheese

Add the cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until melted and well combined. Remove from heat and set aside.

Prepare the Enchiladas

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take a tortilla, and add a generous scoop of the chicken mixture in the center. Roll it up tightly and place it seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Repeat for the remaining tortillas and filling.

Make the Sauce

In a separate saucepan, combine the cream of chicken soup and sour cream. Heat over medium until smooth. Add a little vegetable broth if needed to thin it out. Stir until the mixture is well combined.

Assemble the Enchiladas

Pour the sauce evenly over the rolled enchiladas in the baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the sauce.

Bake the Enchiladas

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

Cool and Serve

Once out of the oven, allow the enchiladas to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions if desired.

Notes

Chicken Options

For a quicker option, you can use a rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking and shredding.

Tortilla Choices

Feel free to use corn or flour tortillas based on your preference; both work well in this recipe.

Vegetable Variations

You may add or substitute other vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini to customize your filling.

Freezing Instructions

These enchiladas can be frozen before baking. Just cover well with plastic wrap and foil and bake straight from the freezer, adding extra baking time as needed.

Cook techniques

Sautéing

Sautéing is a technique used to cook ingredients quickly in a small amount of oil or butter over relatively high heat. This method helps to enhance the flavors of vegetables, such as mushrooms and spinach, which are key components of this dish.

Shredding Chicken

Shredding chicken involves cooking the chicken until it’s tender and easily pulled apart into bite-sized pieces. This can be done using a fork or your hands and is essential for creating a filling for your enchiladas.

Rolling Enchiladas

Rolling enchiladas requires placing the filling inside a tortilla and carefully rolling it up. It’s important to ensure a tight roll to keep the filling from spilling out during baking.

Layering Ingredients

Layering ingredients in a baking dish helps to create a cohesive and flavorful dish. This method typically involves placing a layer of sauce at the bottom, followed by the rolled enchiladas, and then topping with more sauce and cheese.

Baking

Baking the enchiladas allows the flavors to meld together while the cheese melts and becomes bubbly. This technique is essential for achieving a deliciously golden top.

FAQ

Can I use different types of meat in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with other meats such as turkey or beef, or even use beans for a vegetarian option.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To increase the spice level, you can add jalapeños to the filling or use a spicier enchilada sauce.

Can I prepare enchiladas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the enchiladas and refrigerate them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

What should I serve with these enchiladas?

These enchiladas pair well with toppings like sour cream, avocado, or fresh cilantro, and can be served alongside rice or a salad.

Can I freeze leftover enchiladas?

Yes, leftover enchiladas can be frozen. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in foil or an airtight container. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat in the oven.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Spinach Mushroom Enchiladas are a delightful twist on traditional enchiladas, offering a rich and flavorful combination of ingredients that will please any palate. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and nutritious spinach and mushrooms create a satisfying meal that is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. These enchiladas not only deliver on taste but also provide a comforting experience that invites seconds and compliments.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable and Cheese Enchiladas

Swap chicken for a variety of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and corn, and include your favorite cheeses for a delightful vegetarian version.

Buffalo Chicken Enchiladas

Add a spicy twist by using shredded buffalo chicken and topping with blue cheese crumbles for an exciting flavor profile.

Zesty Black Bean Enchiladas

Incorporate black beans into the filling and spice them up with jalapeños and cilantro, then top with a fresh avocado salsa.

Chicken Tinga Enchiladas

Use chicken tinga (shredded chicken in a smoky chipotle tomato sauce) for a bold and smoky flavor that will leave everyone wanting more.

Seafood Enchiladas

Try a combination of shrimp and crab meat for a seafood enchilada that celebrates the ocean’s bounty, complemented with a creamy cilantro sauce.