Introduction

Chicken enchiladas are a delicious and versatile dish that combines tender shredded chicken with savory spices, rolled in soft tortillas and topped with a rich sauce. This recipe will guide you through creating a flavorful meal that is sure to please family and friends. Perfect for any occasion, this dish can be easily customized with your choice of toppings and ingredients.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Shredded Chicken: 3 cups
Tortillas: 8 large (flour or corn)
Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 can (10.5 oz)
Salsa: 1 cup (your choice of mild or spicy)
Shredded Cheese: 2 cups (cheddar or a blend)
Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
Onion: 1 medium, diced
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Cumin: 1 teaspoon
Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon
Salt: to taste
Pepper: to taste
Fresh Cilantro: for garnish (optional)

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8 people

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cook chicken breasts in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, or alternatively, use rotisserie chicken for convenience. Shred the cooked chicken and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a saucepan, combine ingredients for the enchilada sauce. Heat over medium heat, stirring until well mixed and heated through.

Step 3: Mix Filling Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheese, black beans, corn, diced onion, and a portion of the enchilada sauce. Mix well to combine.

Step 4: Prepare the Tortillas

Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or in the microwave to make them pliable.

Step 5: Assemble the Enchiladas

Spoon the chicken mixture onto the center of each tortilla, then roll them tightly. Place the rolled enchiladas seam-side down in a greased baking dish.

Step 6: Add Sauce and Bake

Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top of the rolled enchiladas. Sprinkle additional cheese over the sauce. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes.

Step 7: Serve

Remove the enchiladas from the oven, let them cool slightly, then garnish with toppings such as cilantro, sour cream, or avocado as desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Note 1: Chicken Options

You can use cooked and shredded chicken from a rotisserie chicken or poach your own chicken breasts.

Note 2: Tortilla Choice

For a gluten-free option, choose corn tortillas. Flour tortillas can also be used for a different texture.

Note 3: Customize the Filling

Feel free to add other ingredients to the chicken mixture, such as bell peppers or spices, according to your taste preferences.

Note 4: Storing Leftovers

Leftover enchiladas can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for future meals.

Note 5: Reheating Instructions

To reheat, simply microwave individual servings or place the entire dish back in the oven until warmed through.

Cook techniques

Shredding Chicken

To achieve the perfect shredded chicken for your enchiladas, cook your chicken until tender. Use two forks to pull apart the meat into fine shreds, ensuring a uniform texture that will easily absorb the flavors of your enchilada sauce.

Cooking Tortillas

Before filling your tortillas, warm them in a skillet or microwave. This softens them, making them easier to roll without tearing. Aim for a few seconds on each side in the skillet or about 20 seconds in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel.

Layering Ingredients

For the best flavor and consistency, layer your enchiladas thoughtfully. Start by spreading a bit of sauce on the bottom of the baking dish, then fill each tortilla with your chicken mixture, rolling them tightly before placing them seam-side down.

Baking Enchiladas

Bake your assembled enchiladas in a preheated oven to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese to melt perfectly. Cover them with foil for the first part of baking to keep them moist, then remove the foil to let the cheese brown.

Add Garnishes

Once your enchiladas are out of the oven, consider adding fresh toppings such as cilantro, sliced avocados, or a dollop of sour cream. This not only enhances presentation but also adds a burst of flavor.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, using rotisserie chicken can save time and still provide great flavor for your enchiladas.

Can I make the enchiladas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the enchiladas in advance and refrigerate them. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

What type of cheese works best for enchiladas?

Mexican cheese blends, Monterey Jack, or sharp cheddar cheese are all excellent choices for topping your enchiladas.

Can I freeze the enchiladas?

Yes, enchiladas freeze well. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.

What can I serve with chicken enchiladas?

Consider serving them with rice, beans, or a fresh salad to complete the meal.

Conclusion

The Chicken Enchiladas recipe from Joy Food Sunshine is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, rich flavors, and gooey cheese, all wrapped in soft tortillas and topped with a savory sauce. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a warm and satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetarian Enchiladas

Try replacing the chicken with a variety of sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.

Beef Enchiladas

Substitute shredded chicken with ground beef seasoned with chili powder, garlic, and onion for a hearty, meaty twist on the classic.

Cheesy Spinach Enchiladas

Incorporate fresh spinach and a blend of cheeses for a creamy, cheesy enchilada that is both nutritious and indulgent.

BBQ Chicken Enchiladas

Mix shredded rotisserie chicken with barbecue sauce for a smoky, sweet flavor profile that transforms traditional enchiladas into a fun and unique dish.

Seafood Enchiladas

Use shrimp or crab meat combined with a creamy sauce for an elegant seafood version of enchiladas, topped with a tangy cilantro-lime sauce.

Breakfast Enchiladas

Fill tortillas with scrambled eggs, breakfast sausage, and cheese, and top with a chipotle sauce for a delicious breakfast twist.

Enchilada Skillet

Transform the traditional enchilada recipe into a one-pot skillet meal, layering all ingredients in a skillet for easy preparation and cleanup.