When the craving for a warm, cheesy dish hits, you can’t go wrong with Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas. This delightful meal offers a comforting blend of flavors and textures that are sure to please your taste buds and warm your soul. These enchiladas are not just delicious; they are also incredibly simple to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why We Love This Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of enchiladas. They remind you of cozy family gatherings, warm kitchens, and delicious aromas wafting through the air. What sets this Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas recipe apart is the creamy filling that elevates the traditional dish to new heights. With the addition of cream cheese, your enchiladas become more than just a meal; they transform into an indulgent experience.
The blend of cream cheese and sour cream adds a unique flavor that balances perfectly with the spices and the subtle kick from the green chiles. And who can resist the layer of melted cheese atop the enchiladas? This dish strikes a perfect balance between comfort and excitement, making it a favorite among both kids and adults alike. Easy to make, packed with flavor, and customizable to suit your preferences, these Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas are bound to become a staple in your cooking repertoire!
Ingredients about Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas
To create these delicious Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas, gather the following ingredients:
- 5 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 10 ounces enchilada sauce (divided)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (divided)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 4 ounces diced green chiles
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 scallions (thinly sliced)
- 10 8-inch flour tortillas
- Cilantro for garnish
How to Make Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas Directions
Creating Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas is a straightforward process that doesn’t require advanced culinary skills. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this comforting dish that’s sure to delight everyone at the table.
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. This is the perfect temperature to ensure that your enchiladas cook evenly and become bubbly and golden brown. While the oven is warming up, take a 9×13 dish and spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to blend them together until smooth. Next, pour in half of the enchilada sauce and stir until combined. Then, gently fold in half a cup each of shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese. This mix will become the creamy filling of your enchiladas.
Once you have your base ready, it’s time to add the heartiness of your filling. Add the cooked shredded chicken, corn, diced green chiles, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and half of the thinly sliced scallions to the cream cheese mixture. Stir everything together until well coated. This combination makes for a savory, cheesy filling that will encapsulate the essence of your enchiladas.
Now it’s time to assemble your dish. Spread half of the remaining enchilada sauce evenly on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Take a flour tortilla, spoon a portion of the creamy filling into the center, and roll it up tightly. Place the rolled tortilla seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat this process until all the filling is used, arranging the tortillas snugly in the dish.
Once all the enchiladas are in place, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top, ensuring each tortilla gets a nice coating. Finish by sprinkling the remaining shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the sauce. This final layer of cheese will melt into a gooey, delicious topping while your enchiladas bake.
Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the cheese is melted, and the sauce is bubbly and fragrant. To put the finishing touch on your mouth-watering enchiladas, sprinkle the remaining scallions and a handful of fresh cilantro over the top before serving.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas
When it comes to serving Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas, there are numerous ways to present this delicious dish. The vibrant colors of the enchiladas, paired with the fresh garnishes, create an appealing visual that elevates the dining experience. Begin by slicing the enchiladas into pieces—this makes it easier for your guests to serve themselves. You can serve them straight from the baking dish for a homey feel or transfer them to a large platter for a more formal presentation.
Consider pairing your enchiladas with a variety of sides to make the meal more complete. A crisp green salad topped with refreshing vinaigrette can balance the richness of the cheese and cream. You could also serve some refried beans or Mexican rice on the side, which are classic accompaniments for enchiladas. To enhance the flavors of the dish, you can provide additional toppings, such as sliced avocados, fresh diced tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream. Whatever you choose, be sure to add a squeeze of lime for that extra zing!
Expert Tips: Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas
To ensure your Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas turn out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
Use Softened Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature. This makes it much easier to blend with the sour cream and other ingredients, resulting in a smooth filling.
Cooked Chicken: For the best flavor and texture, use shredded rotisserie chicken. It’s quick, convenient, and works wonders in this recipe.
Tortilla Type: Although flour tortillas are recommended for their softness, you can certainly substitute corn tortillas if you prefer. Just be aware that corn tortillas are slightly less pliable and may require more care during assembly.
Make it Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding jalapeños or using spicy enchilada sauce. This will give your dish an extra kick!
Don’t Overfill: While you might be tempted to pack in more filling into each tortilla, overfilling can lead to tearing or spilling. Stick to enough filling that allows for easy rolling.
How to Store Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas
If you find yourself with leftover Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas, storing them properly is key to enjoying them later. Allow the dish to cool completely at room temperature before storing it. Once cooled, cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer the enchiladas to an airtight container. You can place them in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. If you’d like to preserve them for a longer period, consider freezing them.
To freeze, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Variation of Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas
The beauty of Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas is in their versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste or to use up ingredients you have on hand. Here are a few variations to consider:
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with cooked black beans or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms to create a delicious vegetarian version. You can still use the cream cheese and corn mixture for rich flavor.
Spicy Cream Cheese: Mix in some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the cream cheese filling for those who love heat.
Cheese Variations: Change the types of cheese you use. Creamy queso fresco or spicy pepper jack can provide unique flavors that stand out.
Different Sauces: Instead of traditional enchilada sauce, experiment with a green enchilada sauce or even a tomatillo sauce for a zestier twist.
Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Try crumbled queso fresco, diced avocado, or a zesty avocado lime crema for an added layer of flavor.
FAQ about Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas
What makes cream cheese chicken enchiladas special?
Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas stand out because of their creamy and savory filling, which combines the richness of cream cheese and the zest of spices. This unique blend creates a comforting and indulgent dish that offers something different from traditional enchiladas.
Can I prepare cream cheese chicken enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the enchiladas in advance, cover them, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Simply adjust the baking time if you start with cold enchiladas directly from the fridge.
What can I serve with cream cheese chicken enchiladas?
Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas pair well with classic sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad. You can also offer toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or fresh cilantro to enhance the meal.
Can I freeze cream cheese chicken enchiladas?
Yes! You can freeze the enchiladas before or after baking. Just be sure to wrap them well for freezing and to thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.
How do I make cream cheese chicken enchiladas spicier?
To kick up the heat, consider using spicy enchilada sauce or adding diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling. This will give your enchiladas an extra zing!
Are the ingredients for cream cheese chicken enchiladas flexible?
Definitely! Feel free to mix and match ingredients to suit your taste. For instance, you can substitute the chicken with beans for a vegetarian option or change the cheese types based on your preference.
Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas
Ingredients
- 5 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 10 oz enchilada sauce (divided)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (divided)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 4 oz diced green chiles
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 scallions (thinly sliced)
- 10 8-inch flour tortillas
- Cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F and spray a 9×13 dish with cooking spray.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Stir in half of the enchilada sauce and half of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
- Add shredded chicken, corn, diced green chiles, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and half of the scallions to the mixture. Stir until well combined.
- Spread half of the remaining enchilada sauce in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Place a portion of the filling into each tortilla, roll it up tightly, and place seam-side down in the dish.
- Once all tortillas are filled and arranged, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining cheeses.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with remaining scallions and cilantro before serving.
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