Chicken Enchiladas

Chicken Enchiladas are a classic Mexican dish made by rolling seasoned, cooked chicken inside soft corn tortillas, covering them with a rich enchilada sauce, and baking them with a generous topping of melted cheese. This dish is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings.

Main Ingredients:

  • Chicken (typically shredded, either grilled, roasted, or boiled)

  • Tortillas (usually corn, but flour tortillas are sometimes used)

  • Enchilada Sauce (red or green, depending on flavor preference)

  • Cheese (commonly cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)

  • Seasonings (garlic, cumin, chili powder, oregano)

  • Onions, green chilies, or beans (optional add-ins)


How It’s Made:

  1. Cook the chicken – Season and cook chicken, then shred it.

  2. Prepare the filling – Mix shredded chicken with spices, cheese, and optional ingredients like beans or sautéed onions.

  3. Roll the tortillas – Fill tortillas with the chicken mixture, then roll them and place them seam-side down in a baking dish.

  4. Add sauce and cheese – Pour enchilada sauce over the rolls and sprinkle cheese on top.

  5. Bake – Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, usually about 20 minutes.

  6. Garnish and serve – Top with fresh cilantro, sour cream, chopped scallions, avocado, or lime wedges.


Variations:

  • Green Chicken Enchiladas – Uses salsa Verde instead of red enchilada sauce.

  • Creamy Chicken Enchiladas – Includes a creamy white sauce or sour cream in the mix.

  • Spicy Chicken Enchiladas – Extra chili peppers or spicy sauce added for heat.

  • Low-carb/Keto versions – Use low-carb tortillas or alternatives like zucchini.


Serving Suggestions:

  • Mexican rice

  • Refried beans

  • Guacamole or avocado slices

  • Corn salad

  • Pico degallo

  • Margarita or Mexican soda


Cultural Note:

Chicken Enchiladas are rooted in traditional Mexican cuisine, but they've been widely adapted in Tex-Mex cooking. They’re loved for their balance of comfort and bold flavor, and they're endlessly customizable based on regional and personal tastes.



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