Cheesy Mexican Cottage Cheese Chicken Enchiladas

Mexican Cottage Cheese Chicken Enchilada Recipe

A flavorful and indulgent main course, the Mexican Cottage Cheese Chicken Enchilada is a comforting blend of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and zesty sauce, all wrapped in soft tortillas and baked to perfection. This dish is a true celebration of Mexican flavors, offering a deliciously cheesy and creamy experience that is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a special weekend treat.

Ingredients

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 60 minutes

Total Time: 75 minutes

Servings: 4

Cuisine: Mexican

Course: Main Course

Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken:
   Start by boiling the chicken breasts in a saucepan with enough water to cover them. Once the chicken is cooked and tender, shred it into small pieces using two forks. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Vegetables:
   In a wok or large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and green bell pepper. Sauté for a few minutes until they soften and start to caramelize.

3. Add the Jalapenos and Chicken:
   Once the onions and bell peppers are nearly cooked through, add the sliced pickled jalapenos to the pan. Stir and cook for an additional minute. Next, add the shredded chicken to the wok along with the taco seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and let the chicken absorb the flavors.

4. Add the Sauce:
   Pour in the tomato basil pasta sauce and mix everything well. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes on medium heat until the sauce is well absorbed by the chicken and the flavors meld together. Remove from heat and let it cool.

5. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
   In another pan, whisk together the sour cream and grated cottage cheese (paneer) over medium heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Remove from heat once the mixture is well combined.

6. Warm the Tortillas:
   Lightly warm the tortillas on a flat skillet, just enough to soften them but not to crisp them up. This will make them easier to roll.

7. Assemble the Enchiladas:
   Lay the warmed tortillas flat on a plate. Spoon some of the chicken mixture into the center of each tortilla. Then, pour a generous amount of the cheese mixture over the chicken, followed by a tablespoon or two of grated cheddar cheese. Carefully roll up each tortilla as tightly as possible.

8. Preheat the Oven:
   While you are assembling the enchiladas, preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F).

9. Bake the Enchiladas:
   Grease a lasagna baking pan or a similar dish. Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down in the pan. Pour any remaining cheese mixture over the top and sprinkle with additional grated cheddar cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and become bubbly, and the enchiladas are golden and fragrant.

10. Serve:
    Serve the Mexican Cottage Cheese Chicken Enchiladas hot, either as a complete one-pot dinner or alongside other Mexican favorites like Poblano Chili Rellenos or Cheese and Bacon Pinwheels. For a truly delightful meal, pair it with a dessert like Tres Leches Cake for a sweet finish.

Tips for a Perfect Enchilada:

• Taco Seasoning: You can adjust the amount of taco seasoning according to your taste preferences. If you prefer spicier enchiladas, add extra seasoning or a pinch of chili powder.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, for a slightly different flavor.
• Make-Ahead: This recipe can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Simply cover it tightly with foil and bake when ready to serve.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

The Mexican Cottage Cheese Chicken Enchilada recipe is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that combines the best of Mexican cuisine with the comforting taste of cottage cheese and cheddar. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a hearty, savory meal that your family and guests will love. Enjoy this cheesy delight with your loved ones for a memorable dining experience!