Chicken Enchilada Recipe is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, savory spices, gooey cheese, and zesty enchilada sauce all rolled up in corn tortillas. This classic Mexican-inspired meal is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or for entertaining guests. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to make delicious chicken enchiladas that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering meal that will become a regular in your dinner rotation.
What is Chicken Enchilada?
Chicken Enchiladas are a popular Mexican dish made with shredded chicken, rolled in corn tortillas and covered in a flavorful sauce, typically made with tomatoes, chili peppers, and spices. The dish is then baked until bubbly and served hot, often with toppings like cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro. Chicken Enchiladas are a delicious and satisfying meal that combines tender chicken, zesty sauce, and gooey cheese for a mouthwatering taste experience.
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Video of Chicken Enchilada
| Prep Time | 20 minutes of hands-on prep |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes baking time |
| Total Time | 50 minutes |
| Servings | 6 servings |
Chicken Enchiladas have a rich history dating back to the Mayan civilization in Mexico. This classic dish has grown in popularity worldwide for its flavorful combination of tender chicken, savory spices, and gooey cheese, all wrapped in a warm tortilla and smothered in a zesty sauce. The Chicken Enchilada Recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own unique twist. Its versatility and ability to be customized to suit individual tastes have made it a beloved comfort food for many. Whether served at a festive gathering or enjoyed as a cozy weeknight meal, Chicken Enchiladas continue to hold a special place in the hearts of food lovers everywhere.
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Chicken Enchilada Ingredients
Our Chicken Enchilada Recipe calls for a diverse array of fresh ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying dish. From tender chicken breast and vibrant bell peppers to zesty onions and creamy cheese, each component plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall taste and texture of the enchiladas. With a balance of savory, spicy, and tangy flavors, this recipe showcases the importance of using high-quality, diverse ingredients to achieve a truly delicious and authentic Mexican-inspired meal.
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken or cook chicken breasts and shred them.
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce: Use your favorite brand of red enchilada sauce for this recipe.
- 1 can (4 oz) chopped green chilies: Adds a mild heat and flavor to the enchiladas.
- 1/2 cup chopped onion: Adds flavor and texture to the filling.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: A warm and aromatic spice that pairs well with the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds savory flavor to the enchilada filling.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the filling.
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese: Use a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Colby cheeses for a flavorful filling.
- 8 small flour tortillas: Use small tortillas for easy rolling and serving.
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How to Make Chicken Enchilada
To prepare Chicken Enchiladas, start by poaching chicken breasts in a broth with onion, garlic, and spices. Shred the cooked chicken and mix with enchilada sauce and cheese. Fill corn tortillas with the chicken mixture, roll them up, and place in a baking dish. Top with more sauce and cheese before baking until bubbly and golden. Serve with sour cream and avocado for a delicious meal.
- Preheat your oven to 350 F (175 C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat and add diced onions and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Add shredded cooked chicken to the skillet, along with diced green chilies, cumin, chili powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir in a can of enchilada sauce and simmer for a few minutes to combine all the flavors.
- Spoon a small amount of the chicken mixture onto a tortilla and roll it up, then place it seam side down in the prepared baking dish.
- Continue filling and rolling the remaining tortillas until all the chicken mixture is used up.
- Pour any remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, then top with shredded cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is slightly browned.
- Serve the chicken enchiladas hot, garnished with chopped cilantro, sour cream, and sliced avocado if desired. Enjoy!
Tips for Making Chicken Enchilada
When it comes to making a delicious Chicken Enchilada Recipe, there are a few key tips to keep in mind. First, be sure to use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh chicken and authentic enchilada sauce. Secondly, consider adding extra flavor with ingredients like diced green chilies or black beans. Finally, don’t be afraid to get creative with toppings, such as fresh avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream. By following these tips, you’ll be sure to create a flavorful and satisfying dish that will have everyone coming back for more.
- Use homemade enchilada sauce for the best flavor. You can easily make your own by blending together tomatoes, chilies, garlic, and spices.
- Marinate the chicken in a mixture of lime juice, cumin, and chili powder for at least 30 minutes before cooking to infuse it with flavor.
- Shred the chicken with two forks for a more tender texture, or use a stand mixer to quickly shred the meat.
- Add a layer of refried beans or black beans to the bottom of the baking dish before assembling the enchiladas for extra protein and flavor.
- Mix in some diced green chilies or jalapenos to the chicken mixture for a spicy kick.
- Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas for a more authentic and flavorful enchilada.
- Top the enchiladas with a generous amount of cheese before baking to create a gooey, melty topping.
- Garnish the finished enchiladas with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, sour cream, and a squeeze of lime juice for a burst of freshness and brightness.
Directions for Making Chicken Enchilada
To make delicious Chicken Enchiladas, start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, cook diced chicken in a skillet with onions, garlic, and your favorite Mexican seasonings until fully cooked. Then, fill corn tortillas with the chicken mixture, roll them up, and place them in a baking dish. Pour enchilada sauce over the top, sprinkle with cheese, and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve with sour cream, avocado, and cilantro for a tasty meal the whole family will love!
- Preheat your oven to 375 F (190 C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves to the skillet and saut until softened.
- Stir in 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken, 1 can of drained and rinsed black beans, 1 can of drained corn, and 1 can of diced green chilies.
- Season the chicken mixture with 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour 1 cup of enchilada sauce into the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture into a tortilla, roll it up, and place it seam side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and chicken mixture.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, top with 1 cup of shredded cheese, and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts of Chicken Enchilada
The Chicken Enchilada Recipe is a delicious and satisfying dish packed with flavor and nutrients. Each serving contains 380 calories, 15 grams of protein, 20 grams of fat, and 30 grams of carbohydrates. With a balance of macronutrients, this recipe is a great choice for a wholesome and filling meal.
| Calories | 372 |
| Protein | 22.5 grams |
| Fat | 16.8 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 7.5 grams |
| Cholesterol | 61 milligrams |
| Carbohydrates | 29.4 grams |
| Fiber | 4.9 grams |
| Sugar | 5.7 grams |
| Sodium | 818 milligrams |
Conclusion on Chicken Enchilada Recipe
In conclusion, this Chicken Enchilada recipe is a fantastic choice for a delicious and satisfying meal. It is easy to make, packed full of flavor, and sure to please a crowd. Whether you are cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is a great option that everyone will enjoy.
For serving ideas, consider pairing the enchiladas with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad. You can also top them with sour cream, avocado slices, or fresh cilantro for added flavor.
Not only is this dish tasty, but it also offers some health benefits. With lean chicken as the main protein, and lots of veggies and spices, it is a nutritious option that can be enjoyed guilt-free. Give this Chicken Enchilada recipe a try and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal!