If you crave a meal that’s cheesy, creamy, and full of flavor, you’re in for a treat! My easy cheesy chicken enchiladas are just what you need for a delightful weeknight dinner. With simple ingredients like cooked chicken, cream cheese, and savory spices, you’ll create a dish that’s both satisfying and quick to prepare. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this tasty recipe that’s sure to become a favorite!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: With cream cheese, cheddar, and spices, these enchiladas are bursting with rich and creamy flavors.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients or add your favorite veggies to suit your taste.
- Family Favorite: These cheesy chicken enchiladas are always a hit with both kids and adults alike!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup green enchilada sauce
– 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
You need shredded cooked chicken for a tasty base. I like to use rotisserie chicken; it saves time. Cream cheese adds a nice creaminess, and shredded cheddar brings that cheesy goodness. The green enchilada sauce gives a fresh flavor. Black beans add protein and fiber, while corn brings a sweet crunch.
Seasoning and Garnishes
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
– Sliced jalapeños, for garnish (optional)
Garlic powder adds depth, while cumin gives warmth. Diced red onion adds a crisp bite on top. Fresh cilantro brightens the dish and adds color. You can also slice jalapeños for a spicy kick, if you like heat.
Tortillas
Use small corn tortillas for the best flavor. They hold the filling well and add a nice texture. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side. This makes them soft and easy to roll. If you skip this step, they may crack when you fill them.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps the enchiladas cook evenly.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, black beans, corn, garlic powder, cumin, and half of the enchilada sauce. Mix until well blended. This filling gives your enchiladas a rich, creamy texture.
Assembling the Enchiladas
1. Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side until pliable. This step makes them easier to roll without breaking.
2. Spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla, roll them up tightly, and place them seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Make sure to pack them snugly, so they hold their shape.
Baking Process
1. Once all tortillas are filled and placed in the dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top. This adds flavor and keeps them moist.
2. Sprinkle any remaining cheese on top of the sauce and add diced red onion for extra flavor. It looks great and tastes even better.
3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This helps steam the tortillas and makes them soft.
4. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. You’ll know they are done when the top is slightly crispy and the cheese melts beautifully.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Recipe
To get the creamiest filling, use softened cream cheese. Mix it well with the chicken, cheese, beans, and spices. This makes it smooth and rich. If you want to layer flavors, add the garlic powder and cumin directly to the filling. This bursts flavor in every bite.
Serving Suggestions
For a great presentation, serve enchiladas on a colorful platter. Add fresh cilantro on top. A lime wedge on the side adds a nice touch. For side dishes, consider a simple salad or rice. Both make the meal more complete.
Cooking and Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, reheat them in the oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. This keeps them moist. To freeze enchiladas, wrap each tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer bag. They can last for up to three months.
Pro Tips
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick and easy option, use store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking and shredding.
- Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to add other ingredients like diced bell peppers or spinach to your chicken mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
- Make Ahead: These enchiladas can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, making them perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
- Garnish for Flavor: Don’t skip the fresh cilantro and lime wedges; they add a burst of flavor that enhances the overall dish.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can easily switch out the chicken in this recipe. Ground turkey or beef works well. They add a different taste and texture. For a lighter option, use cooked shrimp or tofu.
If you want a dairy-free dish, try using vegan cream cheese. You can also use a dairy-free cheese blend. These options keep the creaminess without the dairy.
Flavor Variations
Want to add some heat? You can make spicy enchiladas. Just add jalapeños or a spicy seasoning mix. This will give your dish a nice kick.
For a Southwest twist, use extra peppers or black olives. They add great flavor and color. You can even mix in some corn or beans for more texture.
Different Sauces
The sauce you choose makes a big difference. Red enchilada sauce gives a rich taste. It adds depth and warmth to the dish. Green enchilada sauce is bright and tangy, perfect for a fresh touch.
If you want to try making your own sauce, here’s a simple recipe. Mix 1 can of diced green chiles, 2 cups of vegetable broth, and 1 tablespoon of lime juice. Blend until smooth. This homemade sauce adds a personal touch to your enchiladas.
Storage Info
Short-term Storage
To keep your cheesy chicken enchiladas fresh, refrigerate them. Place leftovers in an airtight container. They stay good for about 3 to 4 days. Before storing, let them cool down. This helps prevent sogginess.
For best results, cover the enchiladas with foil or plastic wrap. This keeps them from drying out. If you plan to eat them soon, store the enchiladas with extra sauce. This adds moisture and flavor.
Long-term Storage
If you want to save enchiladas for later, freezing is a great option. Start by wrapping each enchilada tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
To reheat frozen enchiladas, first, thaw them in the fridge overnight. When ready, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the enchiladas in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Enjoy them warm and cheesy!
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie?
Yes, you can use fresh chicken. Just cook it fully first. Shredded or diced fresh chicken works well. It adds a personal touch to the dish. Cook it in a skillet or bake it. Season with salt and pepper for more flavor.
How do I make the enchiladas spicier?
To make the enchiladas spicier, add sliced jalapeños to the filling. You can use fresh or pickled jalapeños. Another option is to add hot sauce to the enchilada sauce. You can also sprinkle chili powder into the filling mixture. Adjust the spice level to your taste.
Dietary Considerations
Are these enchiladas gluten-free?
Yes, these enchiladas can be gluten-free. Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas. Always check labels on sauces and beans for hidden gluten. Most corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, making them a safe choice.
Nutritional information for calorie counting
Each serving of cheesy chicken enchiladas has about 400 calories. This can vary based on portion size and toppings. They provide protein from chicken and cheese. Beans and corn add fiber and nutrients, making them a balanced meal.
Cooking Method Inquiries
Can I make these in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can make these in an Instant Pot. Use the sauté function to cook the filling. Then, assemble the enchiladas in a baking dish. You can also cook them directly in the Instant Pot with a bit of sauce. Cook for about 10-15 minutes under pressure.
Alternative cooking methods for cheesy chicken enchiladas
Besides the oven, you can also use a slow cooker. Assemble the enchiladas in the slow cooker and pour sauce over them. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Another option is to grill them. Wrap in foil and place them on the grill for a smoky flavor.
You can create delicious cheesy chicken enchiladas with just a few key ingredients. Start with shredded chicken, cream cheese, and green enchilada sauce. Follow the simple steps of mixing, filling, and baking for a tasty dish. Don’t forget the seasonings and garnishes to make flavors pop. Explore variations to fit your taste. Whether you want meal prep tips or serving ideas, you now have all the tools to succeed. Enjoy making these enchiladas for family and friend
