🖋️ Written by Emma
why make this recipe
This Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without much fuss. It combines tender shredded chicken with gooey cheese and flavorful enchilada sauce, all wrapped up in warm tortillas. You can prepare it quickly, making it ideal for families or anyone looking for a satisfying dish that can be ready in no time.
how to make Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1 cup enchilada sauce
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup diced onions (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, half of the cheese, diced onions, salt, and pepper.
- Spread a layer of enchilada sauce at the bottom of a baking dish.
- Take a tortilla and fill it with the chicken mixture. Roll it up and place it seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired and serve hot.
how to serve Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas
Serve the chicken enchiladas hot, right out of the oven. You can pair them with a simple side salad or some Mexican rice for a complete meal. A dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime juice can also add a nice touch to each serving.
how to store Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas
If you have leftovers, let the enchiladas cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas
- Use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker option.
- Feel free to add black beans, corn, or diced bell peppers to the filling for more flavor and texture.
- Don’t skip the garnishes like cilantro; they add freshness to the dish.
variation (if any)
You can easily customize these enchiladas by swapping out the chicken for ground beef or turkey. Vegetarian options can include beans or sautéed vegetables. You could also change the type of cheese or use a different sauce, such as green salsa.
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even faster and easier.
2. What type of tortillas is best for enchiladas?
Both flour and corn tortillas work well. Flour tortillas are softer, while corn tortillas have a more authentic flavor.
3. How can I make this dish spicy?
To make it spicier, you can add jalapeños to the chicken mixture or use a spicier enchilada sauce.
4. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time, cover them, and store them in the fridge. Bake them when you’re ready to eat.
5. What can I serve with chicken enchiladas?
You can serve them with rice, refried beans, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, half of the cheese, diced onions, salt, and pepper.
- Spread a layer of enchilada sauce at the bottom of a baking dish.
- Take a tortilla and fill it with the chicken mixture. Roll it up and place it seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired and serve hot.
