Easy Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

There's nothing quite like the satisfying bite of a warm, cheesy chicken enchilada fresh out of the oven. The combination of tender shredded chicken, bold enchilada sauce, and gooey melted cheese wrapped in soft tortillas is pure comfort food bliss.

I first whipped up this recipe on a chilly evening when I needed a quick and hearty dinner that could feed my hungry family without much fuss. Since then, these easy chicken enchiladas have become a staple in our weeknight rotation.

Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try for your next meal.

Why You’ll Love These Easy Chicken Enchiladas

Get ready to embrace your new go-to recipe for a cozy, satisfying dinner. These easy chicken enchiladas deliver big flavors with minimal effort.

First off, they’re simple to make, using just a handful of ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry or fridge. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is foolproof.

Second, they’re perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch, and you’ve got lunches or dinners ready to go for days. They also freeze beautifully, so you can save extras for a busy weeknight when you don’t have time to cook.

Lastly, these enchiladas are family-friendly and customizable. Whether you have picky eaters or adventurous food lovers at the table, you can tailor the fillings and toppings to suit everyone’s tastes.

Let’s take a closer look at what makes this recipe so special.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its straightforward yet flavorful ingredients. Here's what you'll need:

• Cooked Chicken: This recipe works perfectly with shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience. You can also use leftover grilled or baked chicken.
• Tortillas: Flour or corn tortillas both work here. Flour tortillas are sturdier, but corn tortillas bring a traditional flavor.
• Enchilada Sauce: Store-bought enchilada sauce is a great shortcut, but if you have time, homemade enchilada sauce elevates the dish even further.
• Cheese: A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack works wonders. The sharpness of the cheddar balances beautifully with the creaminess of Monterey Jack.
• Optional Fillings: Add black beans, diced green chilies, or sautéed onions for extra flavor and texture.

Don’t forget a large baking dish and aluminum foil to ensure the enchiladas cook evenly and stay moist.

How to Make Easy Chicken Enchiladas

Creating these delicious enchiladas is quick and straightforward. Follow these steps for success:

1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Shred your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and warm your enchilada sauce in a small saucepan.
2. Assemble the Enchiladas: Lay a tortilla flat and spread a spoonful of enchilada sauce over it. Add a generous portion of chicken and a sprinkle of cheese. Roll it up tightly and place it seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
3. Layer with Sauce and Cheese: Once all the tortillas are rolled and in the dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle the rest of the cheese across the surface.
4. Bake to Perfection: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
5. Garnish and Serve: Let the enchiladas rest for a few minutes before serving. Top with your favorite garnishes like sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, or sliced jalapeños.

From start to finish, this dish takes less than an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Storage Options

One of the best things about these chicken enchiladas is how well they store and reheat.

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• Freezer: Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
• Reheating Tips: To reheat from frozen, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes or until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully versatile. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicier version.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for sautéed vegetables or black beans for a meat-free meal.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or queso fresco for a unique twist.
• Sauce Alternatives: Use green enchilada sauce or a creamy white sauce for a completely different flavor profile.
• Topping Ideas: Try topping with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or a drizzle of ranch dressing for added texture and flavor.

Don’t be afraid to get creative – the possibilities are endless!

There you have it: a simple, flavorful recipe that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. Whip up these easy chicken enchiladas for dinner tonight, and watch them disappear from the plate in no time.

Print