A Comforting Dish That Brings Everyone Together
There’s something magical about Easy Chicken Enchiladas the way they fill the kitchen with rich, savory aromas, the cheesy goodness melting over tender chicken, and the warm tortillas that wrap everything together like a comforting hug. Growing up, I remember my grandmother making a big batch of chicken enchiladas for every family gathering. She would hum a soft tune as she layered the tortillas with shredded chicken, smothering them in a bold, flavorful enchilada sauce. The anticipation was almost unbearable!
If you’ve ever craved homemade chicken enchiladas, you know that store-bought just doesn’t cut it. That’s why I’m sharing this easy and flavorful chicken enchiladas recipe so you can bring that same warmth and joy to your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner, a gathering with friends, or just meal-prepping for the week, this dish never fails to satisfy. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize, whether you love extra spice, a creamy twist, or a low-carb option.
So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get started! By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how to make the best homemade chicken enchiladas with simple ingredients and foolproof steps.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
You might be wondering why should you try this recipe instead of others? Simple:
Here’s what makes this chicken enchiladas recipe a must-try:
✔️ Super Easy to Make – No complicated steps, just mix, roll, and bake!
✔️ Perfectly Spiced – The sauce is rich, bold, and full of authentic Mexican flavors.
✔️ Great for Meal Prep – These enchiladas taste even better the next day.
✔️ Completely Customizable – Add extra cheese, spice it up, or make it creamy!
What Are Chicken Enchiladas?
The History of Enchiladas
Enchiladas trace their roots back to ancient Mexico, where people wrapped food in corn tortillas as a way to carry meals on the go. Over time, these simple rolled tortillas evolved into the cheesy, sauce-covered enchiladas we love today. The word “enchilada” itself comes from the Spanish word “enchilar,” meaning “to season with chili.”
Why Are Enchiladas So Popular?
Enchiladas are one of the most-loved Mexican dishes worldwide, and for good reason. They bring together all the best flavors tender chicken, melty cheese, and a bold, zesty sauce all wrapped in a soft tortilla and baked to perfection. Whether you’re dining at a Mexican restaurant or cooking at home, enchiladas always deliver comfort in every bite.
Ingredients for the Best Easy Chicken Enchiladas
Here’s what you need to make this delicious recipe:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shredded cooked chicken | 3 cups |
| Flour or corn tortillas | 8-10 |
| Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend) | 2 cups |
| Enchilada sauce | 2 cups |
| Sour cream | ½ cup |
| Onion, diced | ½ cup |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Cumin | 1 tsp |
| Chili powder | 1 tsp |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
Now that we have everything ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions!
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Chicken Enchiladas
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the diced onions and garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add the shredded chicken, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the chicken in the seasoning. Cook for another 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
Pro Tip: Want extra flavor? Use rotisserie chicken for added depth or grill your own chicken with lime and spices!
Step 2: Make the Enchilada Sauce
If you’re using store-bought enchilada sauce, feel free to skip this step. But if you want authentic homemade flavor, making your own sauce is easy:
- In a saucepan, heat 1 tbsp oil over medium heat.
- Add 2 tbsp flour and whisk for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Slowly add 2 cups chicken broth, whisking constantly.
- Stir in ½ cup tomato paste, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp chili powder, ½ tsp garlic powder, and salt to taste.
- Simmer for 5-7 minutes until thickened.
Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread ½ cup of enchilada sauce at the bottom of a baking dish.
- Lay out a tortilla, add a scoop of chicken filling, sprinkle with cheese, and roll it tightly.
- Place the rolled tortilla seam-side down in the dish. Repeat until all tortillas are filled.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with the rest of the cheese.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Top with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, sour cream, or avocado slices for the perfect finish. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400 kcal |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
Pro Tips for Making the Best Chicken Enchiladas
Want your enchiladas to turn out flawless? Follow these expert tips:
✔️ Use Warm Tortillas – Cold tortillas tend to crack when rolled. Microwave them for 10-15 seconds or lightly heat them in a dry skillet to make them pliable.
✔️ Don’t Overfill – Too much filling makes rolling difficult and causes tortillas to break. Stick to about ¼ cup of filling per tortilla.
✔️ Coat the Tortillas in Sauce First – Lightly dipping the tortillas in enchilada sauce before filling them helps prevent sogginess and adds extra flavor.
✔️ Bake Covered First, Then Uncover – Covering the dish with foil during the first 20 minutes of baking keeps everything moist. Removing it for the last 10 minutes gives a golden, bubbly cheese topping.
✔️ Let Them Rest Before Serving – Allow the enchiladas to sit for 5 minutes after baking. This helps everything set and prevents them from falling apart when serving.
Common Problems & Solutions When Making Chicken Enchiladas
Even simple recipes can have hiccups! Here’s how to fix the most common issues with chicken enchiladas:
Why Are My Enchiladas Soggy?
Problem: The tortillas absorb too much sauce, becoming mushy.
Solution: Lightly fry the tortillas in oil for a few seconds before assembling. This creates a barrier that keeps them from getting too soft.
How Do I Keep My Tortillas from Breaking?
Problem: Tortillas crack when rolling.
Solution: Use fresh, warm tortillas. If using corn tortillas, warm them in a damp paper towel in the microwave or heat them on a skillet for a few seconds.
Why Do My Enchiladas Taste Bland?
Problem: The flavors aren’t strong enough.
Solution: Season every layer the chicken, the sauce, and even the tortillas! Also, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded, as it melts better and adds more richness.
How Can I Make My Enchiladas More Flavorful?
Problem: The dish lacks depth of flavor.
Solution: Try adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice, a sprinkle of cotija cheese, or a dash of smoked paprika for an extra kick. You can also add a few tablespoons of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky-spicy twist.
Variations of Chicken Enchiladas
Love switching things up? Here are four delicious variations of this easy chicken enchiladas recipe!
Spicy Chicken Enchiladas 🌶️
If you like heat, add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the chicken filling. You can also use a spicy enchilada sauce or drizzle with sriracha before serving.
Creamy Chicken Enchiladas 🧀
For a rich, creamy twist, mix ½ cup of cream cheese or sour cream into the chicken filling. You can also swap red enchilada sauce for a creamy white sauce made with sour cream and green chiles.
Low-Carb Chicken Enchiladas 🥑
Watching your carbs? Use low-carb tortillas or swap them entirely for zucchini or bell pepper halves. Instead of enchilada sauce, drizzle with a blend of avocado crema and lime juice.
BBQ Chicken Enchiladas 🍗
For a fun Tex-Mex twist, replace enchilada sauce with BBQ sauce, add a little red onion, and top with cilantro and Monterey Jack cheese.
What to Serve with Chicken Enchiladas
Looking for the perfect side dishes? Here are some tasty options that complement the bold flavors of enchiladas:
Classic Mexican Rice 🍚
Fluffy, seasoned rice is a must-have side dish. Cook it with tomato sauce, garlic, and cumin for a restaurant-style taste.
Refried Beans or Black Beans 🫘
A protein-packed side that’s hearty and delicious. Add a sprinkle of queso fresco on top for extra flavor.
Mexican Street Corn (Elote) 🌽
Grilled corn smothered in mayo, lime juice, chili powder, and cotija cheese—pure magic!
Fresh Guacamole & Salsa 🥑
A refreshing contrast to the richness of enchiladas. Try making a homemade pico de gallo with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice.
Chips & Queso Dip 🧀
Because who doesn’t love warm, melty cheese dip with crispy tortilla chips?
How to Store and Reheat Chicken Enchiladas
Want to make-ahead, freeze, or reheat leftovers? Here’s how to keep them tasting fresh:
Can You Freeze Chicken Enchiladas?
Yes! To freeze:
- Assemble the enchiladas but don’t bake them.
- Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil.
- Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To bake from frozen: Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40-45 minutes.
How to Reheat for the Best Taste
- Oven: Cover with foil and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warm.
- Skillet: Heat on low with a splash of broth to prevent drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make chicken enchiladas ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble them up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the fridge until ready to bake.
Q: What type of tortillas are best for enchiladas?
A: Corn tortillas are traditional, but flour tortillas work well if you prefer a softer texture.
Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
A: Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even faster and easier. Just shred it and mix with seasonings.
Explore More Delicious Recipes
- What is Mexican Lasagna Made Of?
- Taco Lasagna with Uncooked Ground Beef
- Ideas on What to Serve with Taco Lasagna
Final Thoughts – Why You Should Try This Recipe Today!
There you have it the best homemade easy chicken enchiladas recipe with all the tips and tricks to make them perfect every time! Whether you love them spicy, creamy, or classic, there’s a version for everyone at your table.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your tortillas, cheese, and chicken, and let’s get cooking!
“Because the best meals aren’t just about flavor they’re about the memories we make while sharing them.”
🔥 Have you tried this recipe? Let me know in the comments!
Happy cooking with Rita Chef ❤️!
Print
Easy Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Easy Chicken Enchiladas are cheesy, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners. This homemade recipe is simple, delicious, and highly customizable.
Ingredients
Shredded cooked chicken 3 cups
Flour or corn tortillas 8-10
Shredded cheese cheddar or Mexican blend 2 cups
Enchilada sauce 2 cups
Sour cream ½ cup
Onion diced ½ cup
Garlic minced 2 cloves
Olive oil 1 tbsp
Cumin 1 tsp
Chili powder 1 tsp
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a baking dish
Heat olive oil in a skillet sauté onions and garlic until fragrant
Add shredded chicken cumin chili powder salt and pepper cook for 2 minutes then remove from heat
Spread enchilada sauce in the bottom of the baking dish
Fill tortillas with chicken and cheese roll tightly and place seam-side down in the dish
Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with more cheese
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes then uncover and bake for another 10 minutes until bubbly
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving garnish with sour cream and fresh cilantro
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken for a faster prep time
For a spicier version add diced jalapeños or extra chili powder
To prevent soggy enchiladas lightly fry tortillas in oil before assembling
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days and reheat in the oven for best taste
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Easy Chicken Enchiladas homemade enchiladas cheesy enchiladas quick Mexican dinner