Name: Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 recipe shredded chicken; 1 recipe enchilada sauce; 16 pieces corn tortillas; 4 tablespoons avocado oil; 1 cup small diced raw or caramelized onions; 1 cup crumbled queso fresco; 1 head butter leaf lettuce (shredded); to taste sliced radishes (for garnish)

If you’re looking to spice up your weeknight dinner routine, look no further than this delightful Chicken Enchiladas Recipe. With layers of flavor and a creamy, savory filling, these enchiladas are a sure-fire hit for both family gatherings and casual dinners. The best part? They come together quickly and can easily be customized to fit your taste preferences. Packed with shredded chicken, a homemade enchilada sauce, and topped off with fresh toppings, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

Why It Works Every Time

The secret to a perfect Chicken Enchiladas Recipe lies in the balance of flavors and textures. The combination of tender shredded chicken, a zesty enchilada sauce, and the crunch of fresh toppings creates a dish that is both satisfying and versatile. Using corn tortillas instead of flour adds authenticity and a delightful bite, while the choice of queso fresco brings a creamy, tangy contrast to the dish. Plus, making your own enchilada sauce ensures that you control the spice level and the freshness of the ingredients, making it a win-win for everyone at the table.

What’s in the Bowl

To create this delicious Chicken Enchiladas Recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

1 shredded chicken recipe (see below for details)
1 enchilada sauce recipe (see below for details)
16 corn tortillas
4 tablespoons avocado oil
1 cup small diced raw or caramelized onions
1 cup crumbled queso fresco
1 shredded head butter leaf lettuce
Optional: sliced radishes for garnish

Cook’s Kit

To make your cooking process easier, gather these essential tools:

Large skillet for frying tortillas
Mixing bowl for combining chicken and onions
9×13-inch baking dish for baking the enchiladas
Saucepan for preparing the enchilada sauce
Sharp knife for chopping ingredients
Oven mitts for safe handling

Cook Chicken Enchiladas Recipe Like This

Step 1: Prepare the Shredded Chicken

Start by cooking your chicken according to your favorite method—boiling, baking, or using a slow cooker. Once cooked, shred the chicken and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Enchilada Sauce

In a saucepan, combine the necessary ingredients for your enchilada sauce, cooking until fragrant and slightly thickened. A simple sauce can be made with tomatoes, spices, and broth for a rich flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

In a skillet, heat the avocado oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until they are translucent and tender. If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can caramelize the onions for extra flavor.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sautéed onions, and half of the enchilada sauce. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Fill the Tortillas

Warm the corn tortillas in the skillet until they are pliable. Take a tortilla, fill it with a generous spoonful of the chicken mixture, and roll it tightly. Place the rolled tortilla seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Repeat until all the tortillas are filled.

Step 6: Top with Sauce and Cheese

Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top of the rolled tortillas. Sprinkle crumbled queso fresco evenly over the sauce.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the enchiladas for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Top with shredded butter leaf lettuce and optional sliced radishes for garnish. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful Chicken Enchiladas!

Allergy-Friendly Swaps

If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, here are some easy swaps you can make in this Chicken Enchiladas Recipe:

Use gluten-free tortillas for a gluten-free option.
Substitute shredded chicken with shredded jackfruit for a plant-based version.
Opt for a dairy-free cheese alternative instead of queso fresco.
Use olive oil instead of avocado oil for those with avocado allergies.

What Could Go Wrong

While this Chicken Enchiladas Recipe is straightforward, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

Overfilling tortillas can cause them to burst while baking.
Using cold tortillas can lead to cracking; always warm them first.
Skipping the sauce on top can result in dry enchiladas.
Not allowing enough time for the enchiladas to bake can leave them soggy.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

If you’re planning ahead, you can easily make these enchiladas in advance:

Prepare the chicken and enchilada sauce up to 2 days ahead and store them in the refrigerator.
Assemble the enchiladas and cover them tightly with foil. Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
To freeze, assemble the enchiladas in a freezer-safe dish and cover tightly. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Why are my enchiladas leaking sauce?

This usually happens if the tortillas are not warmed enough, leading to cracks. Make sure to warm them just until pliable before filling.

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?

While corn tortillas are traditional, flour tortillas can be used if you prefer their texture. Just be mindful that they may not have the same authentic flavor.

How do I know when the enchiladas are done baking?

Look for bubbly cheese on top and a slight golden color. The enchiladas should be heated through, which you can check by inserting a knife into the center.

Can I add more vegetables to the filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the chicken mixture for added flavor and nutrition.

One Pan, More Ideas

If you love this Chicken Enchiladas Recipe, you might also enjoy these delicious dishes:

Final Bite

This Chicken Enchiladas Recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience, filled with rich flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, these enchiladas are sure to impress and delight. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find that making enchiladas at home is both rewarding and delicious.

So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a comforting plate of chicken enchiladas that will have everyone asking for seconds. Happy cooking!