Chicken enchiladas have saved more than one of my weeknights from total meltdown. There’s just something about the smell of bubbling cheese and spicy sauce that makes even the longest day feel a little less overwhelming. I’ll admit, I’m not always the most organized cook—sometimes my kitchen looks like a tornado hit a cheese factory—but that’s exactly why I love this recipe.
First, chicken enchiladas are forgiving. If you’ve got leftover chicken or a store-bought rotisserie bird, you’re halfway there! Also, it’s the perfect dish for those “oops, I forgot to plan dinner” moments. You just toss everything together, roll it up, and let the oven do its thing. Plus, the whole family actually cheers when they see this pan hit the table. That doesn’t happen with salad, let’s be honest.
Personal Anecdote
So, let’s talk about the first time I made chicken enchiladas for dinner. It was one of those wild Tuesdays, the kind where everyone’s hungry and I suddenly realize there’s nothing prepped. However, I spotted half a rotisserie chicken in the fridge (leftovers win again! ), and a pack of tortillas that had survived last week’s taco night. I may have dropped a spoon and flung cheese on the dog, but somehow, these enchiladas came out golden and gooey. My family couldn’t believe I’d whipped up something that tasted like a cozy Mexican restaurant meal right at home.
Also, I’ve discovered that chicken enchiladas are a hero move for affordable easy dinner ideas . You don’t need fancy ingredients, and if you’re like me, you can swap in whatever cheese is lurking in your fridge. If you’re looking for more inspiration, you might love my story about the Best Easy Mississippi Chicken Recipe For A Cozy Family Dinner, which is another regular in my dinner rotation. Or, when I’m in a rush, I go for the Best Easy Chicken Burrito Bowl For A Healthy Family Dinner. Both are lifesavers during busy weeks.
Why This Recipe is Special
Finally, what makes chicken enchiladas so special is how they bring everyone together at the table, no matter how hectic the day has been. They’re warm, cheesy, and totally customizable, which means even picky eaters find something to love. Plus, you can sneak in extra veggies (shh, don’t tell the kids) or use up that leftover chicken . Next time you’re stuck for easy baked enchiladas or quick easy after work dinners , just remember—one pan, a little sauce, and a sprinkle of cheese is all it takes for dinner magic.
Ingredients breakdown
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked and shredded chicken | 2 cups |
| Red enchilada sauce | 1 can (10 oz) |
| Shredded Monterey Jack cheese | 2 cups |
| Flour tortillas | 8 |
| Vegetable oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Onion, chopped | 1 small |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Chopped cilantro | For garnish |
| Sour cream | For serving |
Utensils and substitutions
For these chicken enchiladas, you don’t need anything fancy. A medium skillet, a baking dish, a cutting board, and a sharp knife will get you started. If you have a cheese grater, that’s handy for Monterey Jack cheese, but pre-shredded works just fine. For those Easy Dinner Recipes For Leftovers , this is a lifesaver—just swap in whatever cooked chicken you have on hand.
If you’re hunting for Affordable Easy Dinner Ideas , chicken enchiladas are perfect since tortillas and canned sauce are budget-friendly. For a gluten-free twist, corn tortillas are a great substitute. Also, if you’re looking for Dinner Ideas With Precooked Chicken , rotisserie chicken is my go-to for speed and ease. For more inspiration, check out my Best Cozy Merry Me Chicken Pasta For A Hearty Family Dinner and Easy Dump Go Marry Me Chicken Best 5 Star Dinner Recipe—they’re both delicious and simple.
Finally, when cooking meals like Easy Baked Enchiladas , it’s always smart to keep an eye on food safety, especially with poultry. I like to double-check tips from trusted places like FoodSafety.gov just to be sure everything is cooked and stored properly. That way, you can enjoy your meal with peace of mind!
Step-by-step method for a chicken enchiladas
Step 1
First, prepare the chicken by boiling or baking until fully cooked. Then shred it using two forks or your hands to get tender pieces perfect for filling your enchiladas.
Step 2
Next, heat a skillet over medium heat and add vegetable oil. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the shredded chicken along with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for another 3-5 minutes to blend the flavors well.
Step 3
After that, pour a small amount of red enchilada sauce into the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking. Place a flour tortilla on a flat surface and add a generous spoonful of the chicken mixture in the center. Sprinkle with shredded Monterey Jack cheese and roll tightly. Place the rolled tortilla seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with the rest of the cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes. Finally, remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. Let the enchiladas rest a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with sour cream for a creamy, tangy finish.
Tips and tricks to make this Dinner recipe shine
For busy weeknights, this chicken enchiladas recipe is a fantastic option among easy dinner recipes for leftovers. Using precooked chicken saves time and adds convenience, making it one of the best dinner ideas with precooked chicken you can try. Also, don’t hesitate to adjust the spice level of the enchilada sauce to suit your family’s taste. If you love creamy dishes, you might want to check out the Best Creamy Ranch Chicken Dinner Easy Kid Friendly Family Approved for another comforting meal. Additionally, for a quick twist on chicken dinners, the Best Easy Chicken Piccata Meatballs Family Approved Dinner Recipe is a great choice. Finally, keep some tortillas and cheese handy for very easy weeknight dinners that bring everyone to the table happily.
What to serve with this Dinner recipe
Chicken enchiladas make a hearty meal, perfect for pairing with simple sides. Start with a fresh green salad or some Mexican-style rice to complement the rich flavors. Also, steamed or roasted vegetables work well to add a light touch. For those interested in more dinner inspiration, check out Best Easy Mediterranean Chicken Piccata For A Healthy Dinner Tonight and Best Easy Mediterranean Flatbread Pizza Quick Healthy Lunch Idea.
How to store and reheat
Next, let’s talk about storage. You can refrigerate leftover chicken enchiladas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap for up to 2 months. When reheating, cover them with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Alternatively, microwave on medium power, but be careful not to dry them out.
FAQ
Can I use precooked chicken for chicken enchiladas?
Yes, precooked chicken works wonderfully in this recipe. It saves time and still delivers great flavor. Just shred the chicken before assembling the enchiladas.
Are chicken enchiladas suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! They keep well in the fridge and freeze nicely, making them a perfect option for easy baked enchiladas on busy nights.
What can I serve with chicken enchiladas for a quick side?
Try a simple salad, guacamole, or Mexican rice. These sides pair well and keep the meal balanced and delicious.
How spicy are chicken enchiladas?
They can be mild or spicy depending on the sauce you choose. You can adjust the heat to suit your taste by picking mild or hot enchilada sauce.
Can I make chicken enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them a day ahead and refrigerate. Bake them fresh when you’re ready to eat for the best texture.
Print
Chicken Enchiladas
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Cheap meals
Description
Chicken enchiladas are a flavorful and comforting Mexican dish made with shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, and melted cheese wrapped in soft flour tortillas and baked to perfection.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
1 can red enchilada sauce (10 oz)
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
8 flour tortillas
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped cilantro for garnish
Sour cream for serving
Instructions
1. Prepare the chicken by boiling or baking until fully cooked, then shred it using two forks or your hands.
2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the vegetable oil. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the shredded chicken to the skillet with the sautéed onion and garlic. Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for another 3-5 minutes.
4. Pour a small amount of red enchilada sauce into the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking.
5. Place a flour tortilla on a flat surface and add a generous spoonful of the chicken mixture in the center. Sprinkle with shredded cheese and roll tightly. Place the rolled tortilla seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas.
6. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with the rest of the shredded cheese.
7. Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
9. Allow the enchiladas to rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with sour cream.
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your own.
Choose mild or spicy enchilada sauce according to your preference.
Soft flour tortillas ensure easy rolling.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Thanks for spending some time with me in the kitchen today! Chicken enchiladas are such a comforting dish, especially when you want a meal that feels like a warm hug. If you’re looking for more affordable easy dinner ideas or very easy weeknight dinners, I have plenty to share. You might also enjoy the Best Easy Mediterranean Chicken Piccata or the Mediterranean Flatbread Pizza for variety. Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for more cozy recipes and meal ideas. Until next time, happy cooking and enjoy every bite!