Easy Chicken and Cheese Enchiladas Recipe

Introduction

The art of crafting satisfying, flavorful enchiladas hinges on the perfect balance of tender chicken, rich cheese, and vibrant salsa wrapped in soft, warm tortillas. This recipe for Easy Chicken and Cheese Enchiladas embodies that harmony, providing a comforting meal suitable for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Developed with simplicity and flavor in mind, it leverages straightforward ingredients and minimal prep time, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this dish offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes that will satisfy the entire family, especially the little ones who love gooey cheese and juicy chicken. As featured on Love With Recipes, this dish is a testament to how quick, wholesome, and delicious homemade meals can be. Plus, it pairs beautifully with classic sides like beans and Spanish rice, creating an authentic Mexican-inspired dinner that everyone will enjoy.

Time

Preparation and cooking time for this recipe is approximately 50 minutes. This includes about 15 minutes for boiling and shredding the chicken, 10 minutes for preparing the filling, and 15 minutes for baking, along with some additional time for assembly and optional tips.

Needed Equipment

• Large pot for boiling chicken
• Strainer or slotted spoon
• Medium saucepan for sauce
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife for chopping
• Cutting board
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• 8×8-inch or similar baking dish
• Oven mitts
• Serving spatula or tongs
• Optional: Food processor or meat shredder for easier chicken shredding

Tags

• Mexican cuisine
• Comfort food
• Family-friendly
• Quick dinner
• Cheese recipes
• Chicken recipes
• Baked dishes

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 6 generous enchiladas servings, with each serving comprising one enchilada or a combination of two depending on appetite. For larger appetites or to serve more guests, simply double the ingredients.

Difficulty Level

This dish is classified as easy, suitable for beginner cooks and those looking for a quick meal without sacrificing flavor. The steps are straightforward, involving boiling, mixing, wrapping, and baking, all of which can be accomplished with basic kitchen skills.

Allergen Information

Contains dairy (cheddar cheese, sour cream), gluten (flour tortillas), and chicken. Ensure to use gluten-free tortillas if catering to gluten sensitivities or allergies. For dairy allergies, substitute cheese and sour cream with plant-based alternatives.

Dietary Preference

This recipe is suitable for omnivores and can be adapted for specific dietary needs. To make it vegetarian, replace chicken with cooked beans or vegetables. For gluten-free diets, opt for gluten-free tortillas. To accommodate dairy-free preferences, use dairy-free cheese and sour cream substitutes.

Course

Main Course

Cuisine

Mexican-inspired, Tex-Mex

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures that the enchiladas cook evenly, allowing the cheese to melt perfectly and the flavors to meld. Preheating the oven is essential for a seamless cooking process, so give it about 10 minutes to reach the desired temperature while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

While the oven preheats, place the chicken breasts in a large pot filled with water. Ensure the water covers the chicken completely to facilitate even cooking. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and let simmer gently for approximately 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. You can check doneness by slicing into the thickest part of a breast; the juices should run clear, and the meat should be opaque.

For an even faster option, consider using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken—simply shred the meat and skip the boiling step. This is a popular shortcut that saves time without sacrificing flavor.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the water using a slotted spoon or tongs. Allow them to cool for a few minutes to prevent burns and then shred the chicken finely using two forks, or for easier shredding, pulse briefly in a food processor. Shredded chicken should be uniform for even distribution in the filling.

Step 4: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In a medium saucepan, combine the shredded chicken, salsa, diced green chilies, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Add a pinch of salt and pepper if desired, to enhance the flavors. Stir thoroughly to mix all ingredients evenly. Heat the mixture over medium heat, bringing it to a gentle simmer, which takes about 5 minutes.

Stir continuously to prevent sticking and ensure the cheese melts smoothly into the mixture, creating a luscious filling. Once heated through, remove from heat. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld and the mixture to become creamy and ready for wrapping.

Step 5: Assemble the Enchiladas

Lay a flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon approximately ⅓ cup of the chicken mixture onto the center of the tortilla, then fold the sides inward and roll tightly to enclose the filling. Place the seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Repeat this process with all tortillas, arranging them snugly in the dish to prevent unrolling during baking.

For a neater presentation and easier serving, arrange the enchiladas in a single layer with slight contact. If you prefer a layered look, you can line them up side by side, slightly overlapping if necessary.

Step 6: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the assembled enchiladas. This cheese topping will melt during baking, creating a gooey, golden crust that enhances both appearance and flavor. For added richness, you can also sprinkle a little additional green chilies or chopped herbs on top.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for approximately 15 minutes. The goal is to melt the cheese completely and achieve a bubbly, slightly browned surface. Keep an eye on the dish during the last few minutes to prevent burning. Once done, remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the filling to set, making it easier to serve neat, intact enchiladas.

Preparation Tips

• Use fresh ingredients: Freshly shredded cheese and freshly prepared salsa elevate the flavor significantly.
• Adjust spice levels: Select salsa and green chilies according to your heat preference—mild, medium, or hot.
• Make ahead: Prepare the chicken mixture and assemble the enchiladas a few hours in advance, then refrigerate until baking.
• Uniform rolling: Keep the filling centered to ensure even rolling and presentation.
• Cheese variations: Mix different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a flavor twist.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Enhance flavor: Add a dash of cumin or smoked paprika to the chicken mixture for a smoky depth.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute shredded cooked beans or roasted vegetables for chicken.
• Cheese options: Use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for varied flavor profiles.
• Extra toppings: Garnish with sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, or avocado slices for added freshness.
• Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in the microwave or oven.

Add-ons

• Fresh chopped cilantro
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt for serving
• Fresh lime wedges
• Hot sauce for extra spice
• Shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes as side toppings

Side Dishes

• Spanish rice or cilantro lime rice
• Refried beans or black beans
• Mexican street corn (Elote)
• Chips with salsa or guacamole
• Simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette

Improvements

• Use homemade or store-bought enchilada sauce instead of salsa for a richer flavor.
• Layer the filling with sliced cooked potatoes or sweet potatoes for added substance.
• Top with fresh chopped herbs or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving for extra zest.
• For a healthier version, substitute low-fat cheese and sour cream, and use whole wheat or corn tortillas.
• Introduce roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms into the filling for more nutrients and flavor complexity.

Save and Store

To store leftovers, allow the enchiladas to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until heated through. For best results, add additional shredded cheese before reheating.

FAQ

Can I use corn tortillas?

Yes, you can substitute corn tortillas for flour ones, but keep in mind that corn tortillas are smaller and less flexible, so you might need to adjust the quantity or cut larger tortillas to size.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the assembled enchiladas without baking, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready, adding an extra 5 minutes to the baking time if cold from the fridge.

Can I freeze these enchiladas?

Yes, assemble, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes until hot and bubbly.

What variations can I try?

Experiment with different fillings such as beef, shrimp, or vegetarian options using beans and vegetables. Also, try different cheeses or add chopped olives and corn for extra flavor.

Conclusion

This recipe for Easy Chicken and Cheese Enchiladas exemplifies the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. The process involves straightforward steps—boiling chicken, mixing with salsa and cheese, rolling tortillas, and baking—that yield a comforting, cheesy dish bursting with authentic flavors. The versatility of this recipe allows for numerous customization options, ensuring it can suit various tastes and dietary preferences. The combination of tender chicken, melty cheese, and spicy salsa creates a harmonious flavor profile that is universally appealing. As with all recipes shared on Love With Recipes, this dish emphasizes wholesome ingredients, ease of preparation, and delightful results that can be enjoyed by family and friends alike. Remember to pair it with your favorite sides, garnish creatively, and enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness that makes this dish a perennial favorite.

References

No specific external references were used for this recipe. It is a classic, adaptable dish inspired by traditional Mexican cuisine, optimized for quick preparation and family enjoyment.