Looking for a delicious and easy dinner idea that pleases everyone at the table? Chicken enchiladas are the perfect solution! Packed with bold flavors, tender chicken, gooey cheese, and wrapped in soft tortillas, this classic Mexican dish is a favorite in any household.

Chicken Enchiladas

Whether you're cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting friends for a fiesta, this homemade chicken enchilada recipe will impress.

Read on to learn step-by-step how to whip up these heavenly enchiladas. Plus, we'll sprinkle in tips for customizing the recipe to suit your taste buds.

What Are Chicken Enchiladas?

Chicken enchiladas are a traditional Mexican dish made by filling soft tortillas with shredded chicken, rolling them up, and baking them smothered in enchilada sauce and cheese. They combine the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine with the comfort of a hearty casserole. While you can find countless variations, this recipe keeps it simple and achievable for both beginner and seasoned home cooks.

Why You'll Love This Chicken Enchilada Recipe

  • Easy to Make: This recipe uses everyday ingredients you probably already have.
  • Customizable: You can swap the chicken or add extra veggies to suit your family.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Make them ahead and freeze for busy days.
  • Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for family dinners, parties, or potlucks.

Ingredients You'll Need

To make these mouthwatering chicken enchiladas, gather the following ingredients:

For the Filling:

  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:

  • 8-10 soft flour or corn tortillas
  • 2 cups enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade, see below)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a mix)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Toppings:

  • Sliced avocado or guacamole
  • Sliced jalapeños
  • Salsa or pico de gallo
  • Extra sour cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make homemade chicken enchiladas:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven & Prep Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

  1. Combine the shredded chicken, 1 cup of shredded cheese, sour cream, diced green chiles, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a large bowl.
  2. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined and evenly coated.

Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas

  1. Spread about 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce evenly across the bottom of your greased baking dish.
  2. Place a tortilla on a flat surface. Add about 1/3 cup of the chicken mixture to the center of the tortilla. Roll it tightly and place it seam-side down into the baking dish.
  3. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and chicken filling, until your baking dish is full.

Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese

  1. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, making sure to cover them completely.
  2. Sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheese over the top for that irresistible melted cheese layer.

Step 5: Bake

  1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
  2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once baked to perfection, remove the enchiladas from the oven. Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for garnish and serve immediately. Don’t forget to load up with your favorite toppings like avocado slices, jalapeños, and extra salsa!

Tips and Tricks for the Best Chicken Enchiladas

  1. Use Rotisserie Chicken

Save time by using already cooked rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut. Shred it finely for the best texture.

  1. Make Homemade Enchilada Sauce

For an authentic flavor upgrade, make your enchilada sauce from scratch by combining tomato paste, chicken broth, chili powder, and seasonings.

  1. Choosing the Tortillas

Both flour and corn tortillas work well, but if you prefer a more traditional Mexican taste, go for corn. Make sure to warm them up slightly to prevent cracking when rolling.

  1. Freezing Instructions

Enchiladas freeze beautifully. Assemble them in a freezer-friendly dish, skip the baking, and wrap tightly. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight and bake as instructed.

  1. Vegetarian Option

Substitute the chicken with roasted vegetables, black beans, or tofu for a vegetarian twist on this recipe.

Serve It Up

Pair these chicken enchiladas with some classic Mexican sides for a complete meal. Consider options like:

  • Spanish rice or cilantro lime rice
  • Refried beans or black beans
  • A fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette

Why Home Cooks and Families Love This Recipe

Busy families and Mexican food lovers agree—this chicken enchilada recipe is a weeknight hero. The simple, flavorful ingredients turn into a dish that feels like a treat without requiring hours in the kitchen. Plus, the flexibility to customize makes it a hit for households of all types.

Join the Chicken Enchilada Fan Club

We could rave about these chicken enchiladas all day, but there’s really only one way to understand why they’re so special. Clear your schedule for 30 minutes, whip up a batch, and see what the fuss is all about!

Got your own tips or variations? Share them in the comments—we’d love to hear how you make enchiladas your own.

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