The Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas You Need in Your Life
There’s something wonderfully comforting about a plate of enchiladas. They’re the kind of dish that brings warmth to your kitchen and smiles to your table. This Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas recipe takes just about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it the perfect choice for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual get-together with friends. Trust me; you won’t want to miss out on this flavorful, cheesy delight!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
What sets this enchilada recipe apart is its simplicity and versatility. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that even picky eaters will adore. If you’ve got shredded chicken at the ready, this dish comes together in a flash! It’s not just quick; it’s budget-friendly, too. Plus, it’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s Taco Tuesday or a cozy family meal.
"These enchiladas are my go-to for weeknight dinners! They’re easy to make and taste amazing. The whole family loves them!" — Sarah M., happy home cook
Preparing Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas
This recipe is as straightforward as it gets. At its core, you’re warming tortillas, filling them with a savory chicken mixture, and baking until bubbly. Here’s what to expect:
- Gather your ingredients and preheat your oven.
- Mix your filling in a bowl.
- Prepare your tortillas for rolling.
- Assemble, bake, and serve!
It’s a streamlined process that produces a hearty and satisfying meal!
What You’ll Need
Before getting started, let’s make sure you have everything you need:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (store-bought rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup diced onions (optional; for added flavor)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for serving, optional)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Feel free to swap out the cheese or tortillas based on your preference or dietary needs!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s dive into the cooking process:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, half of the cheese, and half of the enchilada sauce. Mix well.
- Warm the tortillas slightly to make them easier to roll. You can do this in the microwave for about 15 seconds.
- Spoon some of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla, roll them up tightly, and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top of the rolled tortillas.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese and diced onions (if using) over the enchiladas.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These enchiladas are delightful on their own, but a few thoughtful sides can elevate your meal. Consider serving them with a fresh green salad or some Mexican-style rice. For extra zest, you might add a side of guacamole or even some black beans. Don’t forget the tortilla chips for a crunch!
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (which is a big if), that’s fantastic! These enchiladas store well.
- To store: Allow them to cool completely, then place in an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- To freeze: Wrap tightly in aluminum foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- To reheat: Place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Ensure tortillas are warm before rolling; this prevents them from cracking.
- Customize the filling by adding black beans or corn for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Adjust the spiciness by using a mild or spicy enchilada sauce based on your family’s taste.
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? You can put a unique spin on these enchiladas:
- Add a Southwest flair by including diced bell peppers and corn in the mixture.
- Try pulled pork or shredded beef instead of chicken for a different protein.
- Make it vegetarian by using sautéed mushrooms and black beans as filling instead of meat.
Common Questions
What is the prep time for these enchiladas?
Prep time is around 10 minutes, and cooking takes about 20-25 minutes. Altogether, you’ll have a homemade meal ready in about 30-35 minutes!
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked?
Yes! Just cook the chicken beforehand or use leftovers to speed up your cooking time.
How can I make these enchiladas gluten-free?
Simply swap out regular tortillas for gluten-free alternatives, ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
How long do leftovers last in the fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Now that you have all the details, it’s time to gather your ingredients and whip up a batch of these Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas. Your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free options available
Description
A quick and easy recipe for delicious chicken enchiladas that brings warmth and comfort to your table, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup diced onions (optional)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for serving, optional)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, half of the cheese, and half of the enchilada sauce. Mix well.
- Warm the tortillas slightly in the microwave for about 15 seconds.
- Spoon some of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla, roll them tightly, and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top of the rolled tortillas.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese and diced onions (if using) over the enchiladas.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Notes
Customize the filling with black beans or corn. Adjust the spiciness with mild or spicy enchilada sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg