Chicken Enchilada Recipe

Chicken enchiladas are a comforting, flavorful dish that combines tender shredded chicken, rich enchilada sauce, melted cheese, and soft tortillas. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this Chicken Enchilada Recipe will quickly become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Enchilada Recipe

1. Full of Flavor: Savory chicken, zesty enchilada sauce, and gooey cheese create an irresistible combination.
2. Customizable: Use your favorite toppings and adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
3. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish comes together in no time.

Ingredients for Chicken Enchilada Recipe

For the Filling:

• 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional for spice)

For the Enchilada Sauce:

• 2 cups canned enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

For Assembly:

• 8-10 soft flour or corn tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cheese (for topping)
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Chicken Enchilada Recipe: Step-by-Step

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth.
2. Stir in enchilada sauce, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

3. Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cheese, diced onion, garlic powder, cumin, and chili powder. Mix well.

4. Assemble the Enchiladas

1. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
2. Place 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto a tortilla. Roll it tightly and place seam-side down in the dish. Repeat with remaining tortillas.

5. Add the Sauce and Cheese

Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the assembled enchiladas. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.

6. Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the enchiladas rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these delicious Chicken Enchiladas with:

• Mexican Rice: A flavorful side dish that complements the enchiladas.
• Refried Beans: Creamy and savory, they balance the spice of the dish.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp, tangy salad with lime vinaigrette adds freshness.
• Guacamole and Chips: For a perfect appetizer or side.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Enchilada Recipe

1. Use Fresh Tortillas: Slightly warm tortillas before assembling to prevent cracking.
2. Customize the Filling: Add black beans, corn, or diced bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.
3. Don’t Overfill: Overstuffing tortillas makes them harder to roll and keep intact.
4. Make Ahead: Assemble the enchiladas up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
5. Freeze Leftovers: Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option that saves time and adds flavor.

2. Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?

Absolutely. Use corn tortillas and gluten-free flour for the sauce to keep it gluten-free.

3. How Do I Adjust the Spice Level?

For milder enchiladas, omit cayenne pepper and chili powder. To make it spicier, add diced jalapeños or extra chili powder to the sauce.

Conclusion

This Chicken Enchilada Recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and bursting with bold flavors. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a festive gathering, these enchiladas are sure to impress. Garnish with your favorite toppings, and enjoy the irresistible combination of tender chicken, zesty sauce, and gooey cheese!