How to Make Chicken Enchiladas: 5 Tips for Ultimate Flavor!

Name: How to Make Chicken Enchiladas: 5 Tips for Ultimate Flavor!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Cooked Chicken, shredded; 1 can Cream of Chicken Soup; 0.5 cup Sour Cream; 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese; 10 count Flour Tortillas; 1 can Enchilada Sauce

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By: Bennett Claire
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Posted: 07/14/2025

Okay, friends, gather ’round! What’s Your favorite recipe and why? What is the Best Chicken enchi If you’re anything like me, you love a good taco night, but sometimes you just want something feisty. What are enchiladas? Think of them as the cozy, cheesy, totally satisfying cousin of your standard tacos, but baked to perfection. What are some of the best recipes for bubbling perfection smothered in a ridiculously flavorful sauce? What is the best chicken enchiladas recipe?

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What is a chicken enchilada recipe?

Let’s break it down. A Chicken Enchiladas Recipe, at its heart, is all about taking tender, juicy chicken, wrapping it up, and serving it. What are some good ways to eat soft tortillas, and then smothering the whole thing in a delicious sauce and cheese? Think of it like a savory chicken burrito that gets covered in cheesy blanket. “Enchilada” comes from the Spanish word “enchilar,” which basically means “to season with.” “So, you know it’s going to be good! What is essentially a flavor bomb wrapped in tortilla, and baked until everything is melty and creamy. What’s a good way to use up leftover chicken?

Why do I love this recipe?

Where do I even begin? There are so many reasons why this Chicken Enchiladas Recipe is a winner! First, the flavor is absolutely incredible. We’re talking perfectly seasoned chicken, a tangy and savory sauce, and all that gooey, melted cheese. What’s not to love? What I love most about this is how incredibly easy it is to throw together, especially on a busy weeknight. Forget spending hours in the kitchen – this comes together surprisingly quickly. Seriously, this one’s a lifesaver on those nights when you’re staring into the fridge, wondering what to make.

And let’s talk about versatility, shall we? You can easily customize this recipe to your liking. Add some veggies, swap out the cheese, or adjust the spice level to your preference. And of course, it’s cost-effective, using ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry or can easily find at your local grocery store. This recipe is a great option for when you need a dish that stretches your dollar.

Plus, remember how I said it was better than tacos? Well, okay, maybe not better, but different! Tacos are fun, but enchiladas bring a warmth and comfort that’s just unbeatable. If you are a fan of mexican-inspired dishes, then you are sure to love this Chicken Enchiladas Recipe!

How do I make chicken enchiladas?

Quick Overview

What are some easy ways to make chicken enchiladas? How do you make enchilada sauce? What is the best way to bake tortillas, rolling them up, and baking them to golden, cheesy perfection? What is the best part about it all? It all comes together in just a few Simple Steps. Is this method also great because you can customize it to your preferences? Add more chili powder! Want it cheesier? Pile on the cheese!

Ingredients

What is the recipe for chicken filling?

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)

• 1/2 cup chopped onion

• 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chiles, undrained

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/2 teaspoon cumin

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

What is Enchilada Sauce?

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 2 tablespoons chili powder (I use mild, but you can use hot if you’re feeling adventurous) • 1 teaspoon pepper powder.

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce

• 1 cup chicken broth

• Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:

• 8-10 corn tortillas (I prefer corn for that authentic flavor, but flour works too!)

• 2 cups shredded cheese (Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)

What are the Steps to

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

What should I do first, preheat my oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. How do you clean an enchilada? I always do this step first so I don’t forget!

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped onion, diced green chiles, chili powder, and salt. Set aside. What are cumin and garlic powders? Season with salt and pepper. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed. What are some good ways to add hot sauce to a meal?

Step 3: Make the Enchilada Sauce

In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Remove from heat and set aside. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Is it golden? This is called a roux, and it helps to thicken the sauce. Be careful not to burn it!

Step 4: Add Spices & Liquids

Stir in the cumin, oregano, and chili powder. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Gradually whisk in the tomato sauce and chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened. Add more water if desired. Is there a Season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Assemble the Enchiladas

What is the fun part? What’s the recipe for enchilada sauce? Pour it into a baking dish. How do you keep tortillas from sticking? How do you warm tortillas? How do you do this by microwaving them for a few seconds or warming them in sprayed water?

Step 6: Fill & Roll

Spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla. Roll up the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and chicken filling, arranging them snugly in the dish.

Step 7: Top with Sauce & Cheese

The remaining enchilada sauce should be spooned over the top of the stuffed hen. Make sure they are evenly coated. Sprinkle generously with shredded cheese. What are some good ways to load up cheese?

Step 8: Bake

In the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is crispy. Remove from the oven and cool. Enchiladas are heated through. The edges should be slightly golden brown.

Step 9: Cool & Serve

Let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes before serving. This will prevent you from burning your mouth on the molten cheese! Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as Sour Cream, guacamole, chopped cilantro, or sliced green onions.

What should I serve it with?

These Chicken Enchiladas are pretty amazing on their own, but they’re even better when paired with the right sides! For a complete and satisfying meal, I love serving them with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans. This is my go-to combination for a classic enchilada dinner.

If you’re looking for something a little lighter, a fresh and vibrant salad is a great option. Think a simple green salad with a tangy lime vinaigrette, or a more elaborate Mexican-inspired salad with corn, black beans, avocado, and a creamy cilantro dressing.

And don’t forget the toppings! Sour Cream or Greek yogurt, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro, and sliced green onions are all fantastic additions. I like to set out a variety of toppings so everyone can customize their own enchiladas. My kids ask for this all the time, and they’re always excited to add their own toppings!

What are some of the best Tips for making chicken enchiladas?

What are some extra tips to take your recipe to the next level? What is chicken enchiladas?Chicken Prep: If you’re using rotisserie chicken, make sure to remove the skin and any bones before shredding it. This will give you the best flavor and texture. You can also cook your own chicken by poaching it in chicken broth or baking it in the oven.

Sauce Consistency: The enchilada sauce should be thick enough to coat the enchiladas without being too runny. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes until it thickens up. If it’s too thick, add a little more chicken broth.

Tortilla Warmth: Warming the tortillas is crucial for preventing them from cracking when you roll them up. You can warm them in the microwave, in a dry skillet, or even wrapped in a damp paper towel in the oven.

Cheese Choice: I like to use a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for my enchiladas, but you can use any cheese that melts well. A Mexican blend is also a great option.

Baking Time: The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the enchiladas and adjust the time as needed. You want the cheese to be melted and bubbly, and the enchiladas to be heated through.

Spice Level: If you like your enchiladas spicy, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken filling or the enchilada sauce. You can also use a spicier chili powder. I always start with a little and then add more to taste.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have any leftover Chicken Enchiladas (which is rare in my house!), you can store them in the refrigerator or freezer.

Refrigerator Storage: To store the enchiladas in the refrigerator, let them cool completely and then cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil. You can also store them in an airtight container. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezer Instructions: To freeze the enchiladas, let them cool completely and then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then in foil. You can also store them in a freezer-safe container. They will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Instructions: To reheat the enchiladas, you can bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them for a few minutes, but they may not be as crispy. If you’re reheating frozen enchiladas, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap out the chicken for black beans, pinto beans, or a mix of roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and corn. It’s just as delicious!

Can I use a different kind of sauce?

Of course! While I love the traditional red enchilada sauce, you could also use a green tomatillo sauce or even a creamy cheese sauce for a different twist. Experiment and see what you like best!

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Assemble the enchiladas as directed, but don’t bake them. Cover them tightly and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake them, simply preheat the oven and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

What kind of tortillas should I use?

I prefer corn tortillas for their authentic flavor and slightly chewy texture, but flour tortillas work just as well. If you’re using corn tortillas, be sure to warm them slightly before filling them to prevent them from cracking.

How can I make these spicier?

If you like your enchiladas with a kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken filling or the enchilada sauce. You can also use a spicier chili powder or add some chopped jalapeños to the filling.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – my go-to Chicken Enchiladas Recipe that’s always a hit with my family and friends! It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and endlessly customizable. What more could you ask for? If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal That’s Sure to please, give this recipe a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! And if you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other Mexican-inspired dishes for even more culinary inspiration. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out! Don’t forget to leave a comment and rating below, and share your own variations of this recipe. I love seeing what you come up with!

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