Nothing beats the charm of a warm, cheesy plate of enchiladas, especially when they’re as quick and easy to make as this recipe! Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas are perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous get-togethers, combining satisfying flavors with minimal effort. You’ll end up with a dish that not only pleases the taste buds but also fills bellies and brightens any table.
Why make this recipe
Reasons to try it
There are countless reasons to whip up these chicken enchiladas, making them a staple in many households. Not only are they a budget-friendly option, but they also boast a deliciously comforting flavor profile that even picky eaters will adore. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare and perfect for serving a crowd.
"This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights! My family can’t get enough of these enchiladas." – Happy Home Cook
Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner, planning for a festive gathering, or simply craving a classic Mexican dish, these enchiladas are the way to go. Their flexibility means you can easily adapt them to suit various dietary needs without sacrificing taste or quality.
How to make Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas
Preparing Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas
Making enchiladas might sound daunting, but this recipe simplifies the process. You’ll love how quickly everything comes together. In just a short time, you’ll have a delightful dish ready to bake and serve. Here’s what to expect as you embark on this cooking journey:
- You’ll start with a flavorful mixture of shredded chicken, cheese, and spices.
- Roll up that mixture in tortillas.
- Layer on more sauce and cheese before baking to melty perfection.
Easy, isn’t it? Now, let’s gather our ingredients!
Ingredients
What you’ll need
To create these scrumptious chicken enchiladas, here’s your shopping list:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend works beautifully)
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 8 corn or flour tortillas
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Feel free to mix it up! You can swap the cheese for a dairy-free alternative or use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.
Directions
Step-by-step instructions
Now, let’s get cooking with these straightforward steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce, cheese, diced onion, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Take a tortilla, spoon the chicken mixture into the center, roll it up tightly, and place it seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat for all tortillas.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce generously over the top of the rolled tortillas, and if you desire, sprinkle extra cheese on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is thoroughly melted and bubbly.
- Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving hot.
How to serve Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas
Best ways to enjoy it
These enchiladas shine on their own, but pairing them with sides can elevate the meal even further. Consider serving them with a refreshing side salad, guacamole, or a bit of sour cream for creaminess. For a burst of flavor, drizzle some extra enchilada sauce over the top before serving, or add sliced jalapeños for a touch of heat!
How to store
Storage and reheating tips
If you have leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), store the enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot. If you want to make these in advance, you can also freeze them before baking. Just cover the assembled dish tightly and store it for up to 3 months!
Tips to make
Helpful cooking tips
Here are some extra tips to ensure your chicken enchiladas turn out perfectly:
- Choose fresh tortillas: Whether you go for corn or flour, using fresh, pliable tortillas makes rolling easier and prevents tearing.
- Customize the filling: Feel free to add black beans, corn, or bell peppers to the filling mix for added flavor and texture.
- Make it your own: If you love spice, try adding a dash of chili powder or some diced green chilies to your chicken mixture for an extra kick!
Variations
Creative twists
Why not get a bit creative? Here are some fun twists you can try with this basic recipe:
- Swap out chicken for pulled pork or beef for a different protein punch.
- Try a vegetarian version by using sautéed mushrooms and spinach in place of meat, along with black beans for protein.
- Top with a fresh salsa or mango chutney to give your enchiladas a new flavor profile.
FAQs
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare these enchiladas?
The total preparation and cooking time is about 30-40 minutes, making this a quick dinner option.
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds fantastic flavor.
How do I know when they’re done baking?
Look for bubbly cheese and a lightly golden topping. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes in the oven.
These Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas are sure to become a favorite in your home—perfect for those who value convenience without compromising on taste! Enjoy!
Ultimate Quick and Easy Chicken Enchiladas
Ingredients
For the filling
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken You can use store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 1 cup shredded cheese Cheddar or Mexican blend works beautifully.
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- to taste Salt and pepper
- to taste Fresh cilantro Optional, for garnish.
For assembly
- 8 pieces corn or flour tortillas Fresh tortillas make rolling easier.
- to taste Extra cheese For topping, optional.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce, cheese, diced onion, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Take a tortilla, spoon the chicken mixture into the center, roll it up tightly, and place it seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat for all tortillas.
Baking
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce generously over the top of the rolled tortillas, and sprinkle extra cheese on top if desired.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is thoroughly melted and bubbly.
Serving
- Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving hot.