Chicken enchiladas are a beloved dish that combines vibrant flavors, hearty ingredients, and simple preparation methods. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a quick weeknight meal, these enchiladas offer a delightful blend of textures and tastes. As you dive into making them, you’ll discover just how easy it can be to create this Mexican classic in your own kitchen. With gooey cheese, tender chicken, and spicy green chiles all wrapped in soft tortillas, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your home.
Why We Love This Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Chicken enchiladas stand out for various reasons. First and foremost, they are incredibly versatile. You can tweak the filling based on your preferences, whether you prefer them spicy or mild. This means you have room to experiment with different flavors while using the base recipe as your guide. The combination of chicken and beans is not only hearty but also nutritious, making it a balanced meal.
What makes this recipe a winner is its straightforwardness. You don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip up a delicious meal. The steps are easy to follow, the ingredients are accessible, and the end result is consistently satisfying. The aroma that fills your kitchen as these enchiladas bake will draw in everyone and whet their appetites.
Moreover, chicken enchiladas are perfect for meal prep. You can make a large batch in advance, pop them in the fridge or freezer, and have a lovely meal ready to heat and serve whenever you need it. There’s something heartwarming about sharing a dish that brings friends and family together, making these enchiladas truly special.
Ingredients for Chicken Enchiladas
To create these scrumptious chicken enchiladas, you will need the following ingredients:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil (or olive oil)
- 1 small white onion, peeled and diced
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into small 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles
- Sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 8 large flour tortillas
- 3 cups Mexican-blend shredded cheese
- 1 batch red enchilada sauce
- Optional toppings: fresh cilantro, chopped red onions, diced avocado, sour cream, and/or crumbled cotija cheese
With these fresh and flavorful ingredients, you are all set to create a mouthwatering meal that you and your loved ones will adore.
How to Make Chicken Enchiladas Directions
Follow these steps to prepare your delicious chicken enchiladas:
- Prep the Oven and Sauce: Begin by preheating the oven to 350°F. While the oven warms up, prepare your enchilada sauce according to your favorite recipe or use a store-bought version if you’re short on time. Either way, the sauce is crucial for flavor.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the avocado oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion. Sauté the onion for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened and fragrant.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the diced chicken to the pan along with the green chiles. Season generously with sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper. Sauté everything together for approximately 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Incorporate Beans: Next, stir in the rinsed black beans to the chicken and onion mixture until everything is well combined. Once incorporated, remove the pan from heat and set it aside.
- Assemble the Enchiladas: Set up your assembly line with tortillas, enchilada sauce, chicken mixture, and shredded cheese. Take a tortilla and spread about two tablespoons of sauce over its surface. Place a generous spoonful of the chicken and bean mixture in a line down the center. Top it with a sprinkle of cheese, around 1/3 cup.
- Roll the Tortilla: Carefully roll up the tortilla, ensuring all the filling stays inside. Place the rolled enchilada seam-side down in a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Repeat this process until all the tortillas are filled and arranged in the baking dish.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour any remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top of the assembled enchiladas, ensuring they are well covered. Add any extra cheese on top for that melty goodness.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 20 minutes. The enchiladas should be cooked through with slightly crispy edges when you take them out.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the baking dish to cool slightly on a wire rack. It’s best to serve the enchiladas while they’re hot and melty, garnished with your choice of fresh toppings such as chopped cilantro, diced avocado, red onions, sour cream, or crumbled cotija cheese.
Your kitchen will carry the delightful scent of spices and melting cheese, ready to welcome everyone to the table.
How to Serve Chicken Enchiladas
Serving chicken enchiladas can be as delightful as preparing them. Once baked to golden perfection, transfer the enchiladas to your serving plates. You might want to add a dollop of sour cream alongside them for an extra creamy texture, or sprinkle fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Pile on toppings like diced avocado and chopped onions for that fresh crunch.
Pair your enchiladas with sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. The vibrant colors and variety of textures will make the dish visually stunning and appetizing. Don’t forget some fresh lime wedges on the side; a squeeze of lime can elevate the flavors of your enchiladas even further.
Enjoying your chicken enchiladas with family or friends will transform any ordinary meal into a festive occasion. The shared experience of this comforting dish brings joy to the dining table.
Expert Tips for Chicken Enchiladas
To ensure your chicken enchiladas shine, you might consider these expert tips:
- Don’t Overfill the Tortillas: When adding the filling, remember not to overstuff your tortillas. A bit of filling goes a long way, and too much can make rolling difficult and messy.
- Pre-Cook Tortillas: If you find your tortillas are breaking when rolling, consider lightly cooking them on a skillet for about 30 seconds on each side to make them more pliable.
- Season Properly: The key to flavor lies in proper seasoning. Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper when cooking the chicken and beans—adding layers of flavor makes a significant difference.
- Use Quality Ingredients: For an even better taste, aim for high-quality cheese and authentic enchilada sauce. Fresh ingredients will enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
- Customize to Your Taste: Feel free to swap out the chicken for shredded turkey or even vegetarian options like mushrooms or grilled vegetables. The possibilities are endless, so get creative!
By following these tips, you’ll create enchiladas that will impress everyone at the table.
How to Store Chicken Enchiladas
If you happen to have leftover chicken enchiladas, storing them is straightforward. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
For longer storage, you can freeze them. It’s best to freeze the assembled enchiladas before baking. Wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To bake from frozen, you’ll need to extend your cooking time but ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
By storing them properly, you can enjoy the deliciousness of chicken enchiladas even days after they’ve been made.
Variations of Chicken Enchiladas
Chicken enchiladas are not just delicious as written; they lend themselves well to a variety of adaptations. Here are some inventive variations you can try:
- Vegetarian Enchiladas: Swap the chicken for sautéed zucchini, spinach, and bell peppers for a fresh vegetarian option. Add chickpeas for extra protein.
- Spicy Enchiladas: If you love heat, consider adding jalapeños or substituting spicy enchilada sauce. You can also add more diced green chiles for an extra kick.
- Cheesy Enchiladas: Go overboard with the cheese by using a blend of different cheeses. Consider adding pepper jack or even crumbled feta for a twist.
- Creamy Enchiladas: Mix some cream cheese into your chicken mixture for a creamy filling that will take your enchiladas to the next level.
- Sweet and Savory: Try incorporating sweet corn or diced pineapple in the filling for a subtle sweet contrast against the savory flavors.
Each variation brings a unique twist to the classic recipe and allows you to tailor the dish to suit your or your guests’ preferences.
FAQ
What are chicken enchiladas?
Chicken enchiladas are a popular Mexican dish consisting of tortillas filled with a savory chicken mixture, topped with enchilada sauce and cheese, then baked until bubbly and golden.
How do you make chicken enchiladas from scratch?
To make chicken enchiladas from scratch, cook diced chicken, sautéed onions, and spices, then wrap the mixture in flour tortillas with cheese, cover with enchilada sauce, and bake until golden.
Can I make chicken enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble chicken enchiladas ahead of time and either refrigerate them for a few days or freeze them. Just bake them when you’re ready to enjoy.
What toppings can I use for chicken enchiladas?
You can top chicken enchiladas with a variety of toppings such as fresh cilantro, diced avocado, sour cream, crumbled cotija cheese, or chopped red onions.
What’s the best way to store leftover chicken enchiladas?
Leftover chicken enchiladas should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the assembled dish before baking.
By embracing the tradition and flavor of chicken enchiladas, you’re not just preparing a meal; you’re creating an experience that celebrates rich culinary heritage and simple family gatherings. Enjoy each savory bite as you savor the love and care you’ve put into this delicious dish!