Description
These Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas are perfect for cozy January nights, combining tender shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and rich enchilada sauce baked to bubbly perfection. They offer a comforting and flavorful meal that comes together easily for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Filling
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack, divided
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Assembly
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 1 can (10 ounces) red enchilada sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the pan)
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese or cheddar and Monterey Jack (remaining from the 2 cups)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Filling Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, 1 cup of the cheese, sour cream, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated to create a flavorful filling.
- Assemble Enchiladas: Spoon the chicken mixture down the center of each flour tortilla. Roll them up tightly and place each seam-side down in the prepared baking dish in a single layer to maintain their shape during baking.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the entire can of red enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas, making sure they are fully covered to keep them moist and flavorful. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese evenly on top for a cheesy crust.
- Bake: Bake the enchiladas uncovered in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden, and the filling is heated through.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the enchiladas rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired, then serve warm. Enjoy with rice, beans, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken works especially well and saves time.
- For extra creaminess, add a few tablespoons of cream cheese to the filling.
- Serve with rice, beans, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- Make sure tortillas are rolled tightly to avoid filling spilling out during baking.
- You can substitute corn tortillas for a gluten-free option if desired.
