Ultimate Chicken Enchiladas Tasty and Easy Recipe

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Are you ready to elevate your dinner game? My Ultimate Chicken Enchiladas recipe promises tasty flavors and simple steps. You’ll love how easy these enchiladas are to make, whether you’re a kitchen pro or just starting out. From fresh ingredients to unique sauces, I’ll guide you through every step. Let’s create a dish that your family will ask for again and again! Dive in and explore the full recipe below.

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Flavorful Filling: The combination of chicken, black beans, and spices creates a rich and satisfying taste that everyone will love.
  2. Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or unexpected guests.
  3. Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand, making it versatile.
  4. Comfort Food: These enchiladas are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings with family and friends.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Ultimate Chicken Enchiladas

For these enchiladas, you need key items that make them tasty. Gather these main ingredients:

– 2 cups shredded cooked chicken

– 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained

– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

– 1 cup diced bell peppers (red and green)

– 1 small onion, finely chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 cup sour cream

– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)

– 8 large flour tortillas

– 2 cups enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)

These elements come together to create a hearty filling that packs flavor.

Seasonings and Sauces

Now, let’s talk about the seasonings. They add depth and warmth to your dish. You will need:

– 1 teaspoon ground cumin

– 1 teaspoon chili powder

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– Salt and pepper to taste

These spices enhance the chicken and veggies, making every bite delicious.

Suggested Garnishes

Garnishes add color and freshness. For your enchiladas, consider:

– Fresh cilantro

This bright herb brings a nice touch to the dish. You can also add extra sour cream or some salsa on the side for more flavor. Enjoy your cooking!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheating & Preparing the Filling

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps cook the enchiladas evenly. While the oven heats, grab a large skillet. Pour in one tablespoon of olive oil and set it over medium heat. Add one finely chopped onion and one cup of diced bell peppers. Cook them for about five minutes. You want them soft and fragrant.

Next, stir in two cloves of minced garlic, one teaspoon of ground cumin, and one teaspoon of chili powder. Cook this mixture for another minute. The spices will give your filling a great flavor.

In a large bowl, mix two cups of shredded cooked chicken, one cup of rinsed black beans, one cup of corn kernels, and the sautéed veggie mix. Add half of the one cup of shredded cheese and one cup of sour cream. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. This filling is packed with flavor.

Assembling the Enchiladas

Now, it’s time to roll the enchiladas. Take one large flour tortilla and lay it flat on a clean surface. Spoon about one-quarter cup of the chicken mixture into the center. Roll the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Repeat this step with the remaining tortillas and filling. Make sure to fit them snugly in the dish.

Once all tortillas are rolled, pour two cups of enchilada sauce evenly over them. Ensure every tortilla is covered. Next, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. This will melt beautifully while baking.

Baking and Serving

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This keeps the enchiladas moist as they bake. Place the dish in your preheated oven for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil. Bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

When done, take the dish out of the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve these enchiladas hot, and enjoy every bite. For extra flavor, add some sour cream on top or serve with tortilla chips and salsa.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Flavor Profile

To boost the flavor of your enchiladas, use fresh spices. Ground cumin and chili powder are key. They add warmth and depth. When sautéing, let the onion and peppers cook until soft. This step builds a solid base. Mix in the garlic last to keep its bold taste. For a twist, add a splash of lime juice to the filling. It brings brightness and freshness.

Time-Saving Shortcuts

Want to save time? Use rotisserie chicken. It’s already cooked and adds great flavor. You can also buy pre-chopped vegetables. This cuts down on prep time. Store-bought enchilada sauce works well too. If you want, mix it with a bit of sour cream. This adds creaminess and a unique taste without much effort.

Serving Suggestions to Enhance Enjoyment

Serve your enchiladas hot and fresh. Top them with extra sour cream and cilantro. This adds color and flavor. Pair them with tortilla chips for crunch. A side of salsa brings a nice kick. For a complete meal, add a green salad. Fresh greens balance the richness of the enchiladas. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips

  1. Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker prep time, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It adds great flavor and saves you time on cooking the chicken.
  2. Customize the Heat: Adjust the chili powder and cumin to suit your spice preference. You can also add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
  3. Make Ahead: These enchiladas can be assembled and refrigerated a day in advance. Just cover with foil and bake when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
  4. Garnish Creatively: Enhance presentation by garnishing with sliced avocados, diced tomatoes, or a drizzle of lime crema for a burst of freshness and color.

Variations

Different Fillings for Your Enchiladas

You can change the filling in your enchiladas to match your taste. For a twist, try adding cooked shrimp or sautéed mushrooms. You can also use roasted vegetables like zucchini or squash. If you want more spice, add jalapeños or diced green chiles. You can even make a breakfast version with scrambled eggs and cheese.

Unique Sauce Options

While enchilada sauce is classic, don’t be afraid to switch it up. You can use green salsa or mole sauce for a unique flavor. You might also try a creamy white sauce made with sour cream and green chilies. For a fun spin, mix in some chipotle peppers for a smoky taste. Experiment with different sauces and find what excites your palate.

Healthier Alternatives and Modifications

If you want a healthier enchilada, consider using whole wheat tortillas. You can also swap sour cream for Greek yogurt. Instead of cheese, use a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. For extra veggies, add spinach or kale to the filling. These changes can make your enchiladas lighter while still being tasty!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Enchiladas

After enjoying your ultimate chicken enchiladas, you may have extras. To store leftover enchiladas, let them cool down to room temperature. Then, place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure the container is sealed well to avoid drying out.

Reheating Tips for Best Results

When you are ready to eat your enchiladas again, reheating is simple. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the enchiladas in a baking dish. Cover them with foil to keep them moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. If you want them extra cheesy, remove the foil for the last five minutes. This way, the cheese will melt perfectly.

Freezing Enchiladas for Future Meals

If you want to save enchiladas for later, freezing is a great option. First, let them cool completely. Wrap each enchilada tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. You can freeze them for up to three months. When you are ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven as mentioned above for the best taste.

FAQs

What is the best way to cook chicken for enchiladas?

The best way to cook chicken for enchiladas is to roast or boil it. You can use a rotisserie chicken for quick prep. Just shred the cooked chicken into small pieces. It should be moist and flavorful. Seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and spices helps too. This will add more taste to your enchiladas.

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Yes, you can use corn tortillas instead of flour. Corn tortillas give a great flavor and texture. They are also gluten-free, which is perfect for those with dietary needs. Just warm them slightly before filling. This makes them easier to roll without breaking.

How do I make enchilada sauce from scratch?

To make enchilada sauce from scratch, follow these simple steps. Start with these ingredients:

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 2 tablespoons chili powder

– 1 teaspoon ground cumin

– 2 cups tomato sauce

– 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth

– Salt to taste

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.

2. Add chili powder and cumin, cooking for one minute.

3. Mix in tomato sauce and broth, stirring well.

4. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes.

5. Add salt to taste, and your sauce is ready!

This sauce is fresh and full of flavor, perfect for your enchiladas.

You learned the key ingredients and steps for making chicken enchiladas. The tips provided will help you create the best flavor. Explore different fillings and sauces to keep things fresh. Don’t forget how to store and reheat leftovers for future meals. Experiment with the variations to make it your own. Enjoy your cooking journey and have fun with this tasty dis

For these enchiladas, you need key items that make them tasty. Gather these main ingredients: - 2 cups shredded cooked chicken - 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained - 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen) - 1 cup diced bell peppers (red and green) - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup sour cream - 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend) - 8 large flour tortillas - 2 cups enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade) These elements come together to create a hearty filling that packs flavor. Now, let’s talk about the seasonings. They add depth and warmth to your dish. You will need: - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon chili powder - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste These spices enhance the chicken and veggies, making every bite delicious. Garnishes add color and freshness. For your enchiladas, consider: - Fresh cilantro This bright herb brings a nice touch to the dish. You can also add extra sour cream or some salsa on the side for more flavor. Enjoy your cooking! {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps cook the enchiladas evenly. While the oven heats, grab a large skillet. Pour in one tablespoon of olive oil and set it over medium heat. Add one finely chopped onion and one cup of diced bell peppers. Cook them for about five minutes. You want them soft and fragrant. Next, stir in two cloves of minced garlic, one teaspoon of ground cumin, and one teaspoon of chili powder. Cook this mixture for another minute. The spices will give your filling a great flavor. In a large bowl, mix two cups of shredded cooked chicken, one cup of rinsed black beans, one cup of corn kernels, and the sautéed veggie mix. Add half of the one cup of shredded cheese and one cup of sour cream. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. This filling is packed with flavor. Now, it’s time to roll the enchiladas. Take one large flour tortilla and lay it flat on a clean surface. Spoon about one-quarter cup of the chicken mixture into the center. Roll the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Repeat this step with the remaining tortillas and filling. Make sure to fit them snugly in the dish. Once all tortillas are rolled, pour two cups of enchilada sauce evenly over them. Ensure every tortilla is covered. Next, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. This will melt beautifully while baking. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This keeps the enchiladas moist as they bake. Place the dish in your preheated oven for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil. Bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. When done, take the dish out of the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve these enchiladas hot, and enjoy every bite. For extra flavor, add some sour cream on top or serve with tortilla chips and salsa. To boost the flavor of your enchiladas, use fresh spices. Ground cumin and chili powder are key. They add warmth and depth. When sautéing, let the onion and peppers cook until soft. This step builds a solid base. Mix in the garlic last to keep its bold taste. For a twist, add a splash of lime juice to the filling. It brings brightness and freshness. Want to save time? Use rotisserie chicken. It’s already cooked and adds great flavor. You can also buy pre-chopped vegetables. This cuts down on prep time. Store-bought enchilada sauce works well too. If you want, mix it with a bit of sour cream. This adds creaminess and a unique taste without much effort. Serve your enchiladas hot and fresh. Top them with extra sour cream and cilantro. This adds color and flavor. Pair them with tortilla chips for crunch. A side of salsa brings a nice kick. For a complete meal, add a green salad. Fresh greens balance the richness of the enchiladas. Enjoy every bite! Pro Tips Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker prep time, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It adds great flavor and saves you time on cooking the chicken. Customize the Heat: Adjust the chili powder and cumin to suit your spice preference. You can also add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick. Make Ahead: These enchiladas can be assembled and refrigerated a day in advance. Just cover with foil and bake when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. Garnish Creatively: Enhance presentation by garnishing with sliced avocados, diced tomatoes, or a drizzle of lime crema for a burst of freshness and color. {{image_2}} You can change the filling in your enchiladas to match your taste. For a twist, try adding cooked shrimp or sautéed mushrooms. You can also use roasted vegetables like zucchini or squash. If you want more spice, add jalapeños or diced green chiles. You can even make a breakfast version with scrambled eggs and cheese. While enchilada sauce is classic, don’t be afraid to switch it up. You can use green salsa or mole sauce for a unique flavor. You might also try a creamy white sauce made with sour cream and green chilies. For a fun spin, mix in some chipotle peppers for a smoky taste. Experiment with different sauces and find what excites your palate. If you want a healthier enchilada, consider using whole wheat tortillas. You can also swap sour cream for Greek yogurt. Instead of cheese, use a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. For extra veggies, add spinach or kale to the filling. These changes can make your enchiladas lighter while still being tasty! After enjoying your ultimate chicken enchiladas, you may have extras. To store leftover enchiladas, let them cool down to room temperature. Then, place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure the container is sealed well to avoid drying out. When you are ready to eat your enchiladas again, reheating is simple. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the enchiladas in a baking dish. Cover them with foil to keep them moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. If you want them extra cheesy, remove the foil for the last five minutes. This way, the cheese will melt perfectly. If you want to save enchiladas for later, freezing is a great option. First, let them cool completely. Wrap each enchilada tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. You can freeze them for up to three months. When you are ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven as mentioned above for the best taste. The best way to cook chicken for enchiladas is to roast or boil it. You can use a rotisserie chicken for quick prep. Just shred the cooked chicken into small pieces. It should be moist and flavorful. Seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and spices helps too. This will add more taste to your enchiladas. Yes, you can use corn tortillas instead of flour. Corn tortillas give a great flavor and texture. They are also gluten-free, which is perfect for those with dietary needs. Just warm them slightly before filling. This makes them easier to roll without breaking. To make enchilada sauce from scratch, follow these simple steps. Start with these ingredients: - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 2 tablespoons chili powder - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 2 cups tomato sauce - 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth - Salt to taste 1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. 2. Add chili powder and cumin, cooking for one minute. 3. Mix in tomato sauce and broth, stirring well. 4. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes. 5. Add salt to taste, and your sauce is ready! This sauce is fresh and full of flavor, perfect for your enchiladas. You learned the key ingredients and steps for making chicken enchiladas. The tips provided will help you create the best flavor. Explore different fillings and sauces to keep things fresh. Don't forget how to store and reheat leftovers for future meals. Experiment with the variations to make it your own. Enjoy your cooking journey and have fun with this tasty dish!

Ultimate Chicken Enchiladas

Delicious and hearty chicken enchiladas filled with a savory mixture of chicken, beans, corn, and spices, topped with cheese and enchilada sauce.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers (red and green)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
  • 8 large flour tortillas
  • 2 cups enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 bunch fresh cilantro, for garnish
  • to taste salt and pepper

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and bell peppers, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  • In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, sautéed vegetables, half of the cheese, and sour cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon about a generous 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture onto the center of the tortilla. Roll it up tightly and place seam-side down in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
  • Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas, making sure to cover them completely. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
  • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
  • Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

Serve hot with extra sour cream and fresh cilantro. Pair with tortilla chips and salsa for added flavor.
Keyword chicken, comfort food, enchiladas, Mexican food

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