The irresistible combination of tender chicken, creamy sour cream, and zesty red enchilada sauce makes this dish a family favorite. Every bite is filled with bold Mexican flavors, perfect for satisfying your comfort food cravings. These Chicken Enchiladas are easy to prepare and packed with cheesy goodness. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual gathering, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds. Pair it with a fresh salad or some Mexican rice for a complete meal!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 ½ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 cup sour cream
- 10 small flour tortillas (or corn tortillas)
- 1 (10 oz) can of red enchilada sauce
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, 1 cup cheddar cheese, 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, and sour cream. Mix well to create the filling.
- Spread 1/3 of the enchilada sauce evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken filling onto each tortilla, roll it tightly, and place it seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the tortillas, making sure they are fully covered.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired, and serve warm.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal (per serving) | Servings: 6 servings
Why Chicken Enchiladas with Red Enchilada Sauce Deserve a Spot on Your Table
Chicken enchiladas with red enchilada sauce are a beloved dish that combines the rich culinary traditions of Mexican cuisine with the convenience of a family-friendly meal. This recipe has been cherished for generations, offering layers of flavor and textures that are both satisfying and comforting. Below, we delve into the history, benefits, and reasons why this dish stands out as a must-try recipe for your kitchen.
A Brief History of Enchiladas
Enchiladas date back to the Aztec civilization, where corn tortillas were used to wrap around simple fillings, often accompanied by chili sauces. Over time, the dish evolved with the influence of Spanish settlers, who introduced new ingredients like cheese, sour cream, and various meats. Today, enchiladas are a quintessential part of Mexican cuisine, adored worldwide for their versatility and robust flavors.
Why This Recipe is a Winner
- Versatility at Its Best
This chicken enchiladas recipe is highly adaptable. You can swap the chicken for shredded beef, pork, or even a vegetarian filling like black beans and roasted vegetables. It works equally well with flour or corn tortillas, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. - A Balance of Flavors and Textures
Each bite offers a perfect blend of tender, juicy chicken, creamy sour cream, gooey melted cheese, and the bold kick of red enchilada sauce. The tortillas soak up the sauce while retaining their structure, ensuring a satisfying texture. - Ease of Preparation
With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Using rotisserie chicken saves time without sacrificing flavor, and assembling the enchiladas takes just minutes. - Crowd-Pleasing Appeal
This dish is universally loved, whether served at a family dinner, a casual gathering, or a festive occasion. The cheesy, saucy goodness is a surefire hit with adults and kids alike. - Customizable Spice Levels
Adjust the spice to suit your taste by choosing mild, medium, or hot red enchilada sauce. For an extra kick, you can sprinkle in some chili flakes or drizzle hot sauce over the top before serving.
Health Benefits of Chicken Enchiladas
- Protein-Packed Meal
The shredded chicken provides a high-quality source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall energy. A serving of these enchiladas can easily meet a significant portion of your daily protein requirements. - Rich in Nutrients
When paired with fresh cilantro, avocado, and a side of salad or salsa, this dish offers a variety of nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as healthy fats. - Supports Bone Health
The cheese and sour cream are excellent sources of calcium, which is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth. - Gluten-Free Option
By using corn tortillas, this recipe becomes a gluten-free delight, catering to those with dietary restrictions.
Tips to Elevate Your Chicken Enchiladas
- Homemade Red Enchilada Sauce
While canned enchilada sauce is convenient, making your own adds an extra layer of freshness and authenticity. Combine tomato paste, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, garlic, and a splash of vinegar for a sauce that’s bursting with flavor. - Enhance the Filling
Add diced green chilies, sautéed onions, or a handful of chopped spinach to the chicken mixture for added depth and nutrition. - Perfect Your Tortillas
Lightly warm your tortillas in a skillet or microwave before filling them. This prevents cracking and makes them more pliable. - Top It Off
Sprinkle crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese on top after baking for a touch of authenticity. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of guacamole or sour cream. - Serve with Style
Pair these enchiladas with classic Mexican sides like Spanish rice, refried beans, or a fresh pico de gallo for a complete meal.
Why Choose This Recipe Over Others?
- Family-Friendly
The recipe strikes the perfect balance between flavor and accessibility. Even picky eaters are bound to enjoy its cheesy, savory goodness. - Budget-Friendly
Utilizing pantry staples and affordable ingredients like rotisserie chicken, cheese, and tortillas makes this dish an economical choice. - Meal Prep Champion
These enchiladas freeze beautifully, making them ideal for meal prepping. Assemble, freeze, and bake when needed for a no-fuss dinner. - Holiday and Party Favorite
Whether it’s a game day or a festive celebration, chicken enchiladas are always a crowd-pleaser. They are easy to transport and reheat, making them great for potlucks.
Fun Variations to Try
- Green Enchiladas
Swap out the red enchilada sauce for a tangy green tomatillo sauce to create a completely different flavor profile. - Creamy Enchiladas
Mix a can of cream of chicken soup into the red sauce for an extra creamy texture. - Breakfast Enchiladas
Replace the chicken with scrambled eggs, breakfast sausage, and hash browns for a morning twist. - Seafood Enchiladas
Try filling your tortillas with shrimp or crab meat, paired with a creamy sauce for a luxurious take on the classic.
Conclusion
Chicken enchiladas are more than just a meal; they’re an experience. The warm, cheesy filling and the bold, spicy sauce evoke feelings of comfort and joy. Whether you’re indulging in this dish on a cozy night at home or sharing it with loved ones during a celebration, it’s a recipe that brings people together. This recipe, with its perfect balance of flavors, ease of preparation, and versatility, is bound to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try, and let the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine transform your dinner table into a fiesta of taste and texture!