Chicken Enchilada Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This chicken enchilada recipe is a crowd-pleaser, combining bold flavors with simple steps for a meal that feels like a hug on a plate. You’ll love how easy it is to make, even on busy weeknights, and how the cheesy, saucy filling hits all the right notes. Plus, it’s customizable—add your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Finally, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken, making it both delicious and practical.

Recipe

Chicken enchiladas are a delicious and comforting Mexican dish featuring tender shredded chicken wrapped in soft tortillas, smothered in a flavorful sauce, and topped with melted cheese. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
• 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 8 flour tortillas
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onions and bell peppers until soft.
3. Add shredded chicken, cumin, chili powder, and half the enchilada sauce. Stir well and cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce in a baking dish.
5. Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture and a sprinkle of cheese. Roll tightly and place seam-side down in the dish.
6. Pour remaining sauce over the enchiladas and top with remaining cheese.
7. Bake for 20 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Garnish with cilantro before serving.

Notes:

• For extra flavor, add black beans or corn to the filling.
• Substitute corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.

Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Serving: 4

Nutrition

This chicken enchilada recipe is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Here are the key nutritional facts per serving:

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my chicken enchiladas with simple sides like Mexican rice or a crisp salad, but don’t forget the guac—it’s a must! For drinks, I usually go for a cold horchata or a light beer to balance the flavors. Trust me, these combos turn a good meal into something extra special.

Side Dishes

When you’re serving up hearty chicken enchiladas, the right sides can turn a good meal into something truly special. I love pairing them with side dish ideas that bring out their rich flavors, like cilantro-lime rice or a fresh corn salad. These flavor complements add brightness and balance, making every bite more satisfying. Don’t forget warm tortilla chips with guacamole—it’s a crowd-pleaser every time!

Beverage Pairings

Choosing the perfect drink to go with chicken enchiladas can really elevate the meal, and I’ve found that it’s all about balancing those bold, spicy flavors. For wine options, I love a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir—they’re invigorating and don’t overpower the dish. Cocktail suggestions? A classic margarita or a spicy paloma adds a fun, zesty twist that complements the meal perfectly.