Homemade Chicken Enchiladas
Homemade Chicken Enchiladas
Homemade Chicken Enchiladas are a classic comfort food, perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. This dish features soft tortillas wrapped around a flavorful chicken filling, topped with rich sauce and gooey cheese. If you’re looking for a delicious, satisfying meal that is easy to prepare, this recipe is for you!
Why Make This Recipe
There are several compelling reasons to try homemade chicken enchiladas. First, they are packed with flavor thanks to the spices and sauces used. The combination of cumin, garlic, and paprika gives the chicken an aromatic kick that is hard to resist. Additionally, this dish is versatile; you can customize it with your choice of sauces and cheeses. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover chicken or meal prep for the week ahead.
How to Make Homemade Chicken Enchiladas
Making homemade chicken enchiladas is simple and straightforward. Follow the steps below to create this delicious dish.
Ingredients
- Shredded chicken
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Soft tortillas
- Red sauce or creamy white sauce
- Cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with cumin, garlic, and paprika until well combined.
- Take a tortilla, fill it with the chicken mixture, and roll it up tightly.
- Place the rolled tortillas in a baking dish seam side down.
- Pour the red or white sauce evenly over the tortillas.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the sauce.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy your homemade chicken enchiladas!
How to Serve Homemade Chicken Enchiladas
To present your homemade chicken enchiladas, serve them straight from the oven in the baking dish. For a beautiful presentation, garnish with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream. You can also serve them with a side of rice and beans for a complete meal that your family and friends will love.
How to Store Homemade Chicken Enchiladas
To keep your homemade chicken enchiladas fresh, allow them to cool completely before storing. Place leftover enchiladas in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze enchiladas. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to two months.
Tips to Make Homemade Chicken Enchiladas
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker option, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken for your filling.
- Customize Spiciness: Adjust the spice level by adding chopped jalapeños or using a spicier sauce.
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix different types of cheese for a depth of flavor.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini.
- Different Sauces: Try a green sauce for a tangy twist or a mole sauce for a deeper flavor profile.
- Add Beans: Incorporate black beans or refried beans into the chicken mixture for added texture and protein.
FAQs
-
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Yes, corn tortillas can be used for a gluten-free option, but they may break easier, so handle them gently. -
Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate the assembled dish for up to 24 hours before baking. -
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
To reheat, cover the enchiladas with foil and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Enjoy your delicious homemade chicken enchiladas, and share them with loved ones!
Homemade Chicken Enchiladas
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 cups Shredded chicken Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 8 pieces Soft tortillas Corn tortillas can be used for a gluten-free option.
- 2 cups Red sauce or creamy white sauce Use a sauce of your choice.
- 2 cups Cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese Feel free to mix different types of cheese.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with cumin, garlic and paprika until well combined.
- Take a tortilla, fill it with the chicken mixture, and roll it up tightly.
- Place the rolled tortillas in a baking dish seam side down.
- Pour the red or white sauce evenly over the tortillas.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the sauce.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until heated through and cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving
- Serve hot and enjoy your homemade chicken enchiladas!
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream. It pairs well with a side of rice and beans.
