In our home, we are huge fans of easy, saucy, recipes like this Chicken Enchilada Recipe that are the perfect week-long meal! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, these easy chicken enchiladas are sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds. With my homemade enchilada sauce and a tender chicken filling, this is the best enchilada recipe you’ll come across. So, put on your apron and get ready to create a delightful meal that will impress family and friends!
What Makes Chicken Enchiladas Special?
When it comes to Mexican cuisine, chicken enchiladas are a classic favorite. Bursting with flavors and textures, enchiladas have become a popular dish enjoyed around the world. The combination of succulent chicken, savory spices, melted cheese, and zesty enchilada sauce is what makes these enchiladas truly special. They’re versatile, customizable, and perfect for any occasion.
The Perfect Chicken Enchilada Recipe
Our easy chicken enchilada recipe strikes the right balance between simplicity and taste. With a few key ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll have a batch of enchiladas that will leave everyone craving for more. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps needed to create these mouthwatering treats!
Ingredients for Chicken Enchiladas
To make this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken breast (boneless and skinless) – Tender and juicy, this is the star of the enchiladas.
- Tortillas – Soft and pliable, the perfect vessel for your enchiladas. Make simple, soft, flour tortillas at home.
- Cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack) – Melts beautifully and adds a creamy element.
- Onion, Chiles, Diced Tomatoes, & Black Beans – Aromatic ingredients that enhance the flavor profile.
- Enchilada Sauce – A homemade sauce that elevates the dish to a whole new level. Make my favorite homemade red enchilada sauce.
Serving and Enjoying
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish the enchiladas with freshly chopped cilantro and a dollop of sour cream for an added burst of freshness.
- Accompany your enchiladas with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans to complete the meal.
A Crowd-Pleasing Dish
Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, these easy chicken enchiladas are sure to be a hit. The combination of tender chicken, rich homemade enchilada sauce, and melted cheese will leave everyone craving for seconds.
Experiment and Customize
Feel free to experiment with different fillings, such as adding sautéed bell peppers, corn, or black beans, to suit your taste preferences. The versatility of chicken enchiladas allows for endless customization, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Chicken Enchilada Recipe
Ingredients
- 2-3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion diced
- 1 pound chicken breasts diced into 1/2 inch pieces
- 1 (4-oz) can diced green chiles
- 1 (14-oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15-oz) can black beans rinse and drained
- salt & pepper
- 8 flour tortillas
- 3-4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups red enchilada sauce
Optional Toppings
- cilantro fresh
- sour cream
- onions chopped
- avocado diced
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken Filling
- Start by sautéing the onions in a pan until they become translucent.
- Add the chicken breast and cook until it's tender and fully cooked.
- Add the green chiles and cook until soft and aromatic.
- Stir in the black beans and diced tomatoes.
Filling and Rolling the Enchiladas
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Spread 2-3 spoonfuls of enchilada sauce onto all over the tortilla, scoop about 1/4 cup of the chicken-veggie mixture onto the tortilla, sprinkle with 1/4 cup of cheese, then roll up the tortilla and place in the baking dish seam-side down.
Adding the Enchilada Sauce and Cheese
- Pour any remaining homemade enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of cheese on top of the sauce, ensuring each enchilada is covered.
Baking the Enchiladas
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 18-20minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Once done, remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
These easy enchiladas will surely become a favorite in your household, impressing everyone with their homemade flavor and comforting appeal. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy the mouthwatering results of your labor. Get ready to savor each bite of these scrumptious chicken enchiladas, and please the entire family for an entire week of meals!
