Introduction

Chicken enchiladas are a classic Mexican dish that combines tender, shredded chicken with rich flavors and a cheesy, savory sauce. This recipe from Joy Food Sunshine offers a delightful way to enjoy these delicious rolled tortillas, perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. This dish is not just flavorful but also easy to prepare, making it a great option for both novice and experienced cooks.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Cooked shredded chicken (3 cups)
– Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
– Onion, diced (1 medium)
– Garlic, minced (2 cloves)
– Ground cumin (1 teaspoon)
– Chili powder (1 teaspoon)
– Tomato sauce (1 can, 8 ounces)
– Chicken broth (1 cup)
– Corn tortillas (10)
– Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (2 cups)
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
– Sour cream (for serving)

Prep Time

Prep time for the chicken enchiladas is approximately 20 minutes. This includes time spent gathering and prepping ingredients.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time for the recipe is about 25 minutes. In total, from prep to finish, the chicken enchiladas take roughly 45 minutes to prepare. This recipe yields about 10 enchiladas, serving around 4 to 6 people depending on portion sizes.

These chicken enchiladas are sure to become a favorite in your household with their delicious flavors and satisfying textures. Enjoy your cooking!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken enchiladas.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until translucent. Then, add shredded chicken and cook until heated through. Mix in your choice of spices, such as cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder.

Prepare the Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine enchilada sauce with some broth (chicken or vegetable) for extra flavor. Stir until well mixed. Set aside.

Assemble the Enchiladas

Take a tortilla and fill it with the chicken mixture. Add cheese, roll it up, and place it seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Top with Sauce and Cheese

Pour the prepared enchilada sauce over the assembled tortillas. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top, ensuring even coverage.

Bake the Enchiladas

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the enchiladas from the oven, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve hot with toppings like sour cream and avocado if desired.

Notes

Chicken Options

You can use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option or cook your chicken breast pieces beforehand for a fresh taste.

Vegetarian Version

To make a vegetarian version, replace chicken with black beans, lentils, or sautéed vegetables.

Tortilla Choices

Feel free to use corn or flour tortillas based on your preference; corn tortillas may require warming before rolling.

Storage

Leftover enchiladas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Cook techniques

Shredding Chicken

When preparing chicken enchiladas, ensure that the chicken is cooked thoroughly before shredding. Use two forks to easily pull apart the meat or a stand mixer on a low setting for quicker results.

Making Enchilada Sauce

Creating a flavorful enchilada sauce can elevate your dish. Sauté onions and garlic until translucent, then add spices such as chili powder, cumin, and tomatoes for depth.

Assembling Enchiladas

When rolling enchiladas, place the filling in the center of a tortilla and fold the sides over before rolling it up. This helps keep the filling secure within the tortilla.

Baking Enchiladas

To ensure even cooking, preheat your oven and bake the enchiladas until the cheese is melted and bubbly, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Yes, using store-bought rotisserie chicken can save time and add great flavor to your enchiladas.

How can I make enchiladas gluten-free?

You can easily make enchiladas gluten-free by using corn tortillas instead of wheat, and ensuring your sauces and fillings are also gluten-free.

Can I freeze enchiladas?

Yes, enchiladas can be frozen before baking. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

What other fillings can I use?

Feel free to experiment with fillings such as beans, cheese, or vegetables for a meatless version, or even different protein sources like beef or pork.

How do I know when they are done baking?

Enchiladas are done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the tortillas begin to crisp slightly.

Conclusion

The chicken enchiladas are a delightful and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful sauces, and melted cheese, making them a hit for any dinner. Their versatility allows for various fillings and toppings, making them perfect for customizing according to personal taste. This recipe not only provides a hearty meal but also brings friends and family together around the table, creating lasting memories with every bite.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetarian Enchiladas

Replace chicken with a mix of your favorite vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and black beans for a wholesome, plant-based version of enchiladas.

Beef Enchiladas

Substitute the chicken with ground beef seasoned with spices for a rich and hearty flavor, perfect for those who prefer red meat.

Cheese Enchiladas

For a simpler option, fill tortillas with a blend of cheeses and smother them in enchilada sauce, creating a cheesy indulgence.

Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas

Add a twist by using green enchilada sauce and roasted green chiles for a different flavor profile while still enjoying shredded chicken.

Breakfast Enchiladas

Incorporate scrambled eggs, sausage, and cheese, topped with salsa, for a fun and tasty breakfast option.

Enchilada Casserole

Layer tortillas, filling, and sauce in a casserole dish for an easy-to-serve baked version of enchiladas, perfect for feeding a crowd.

Chicken Spinach Enchiladas

Mix in fresh spinach with the chicken for added nutrition, and pair with a creamy white sauce for a delectable finish.