Name: Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-490580H44M35S
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups Cooked and shredded chicken (Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your own.); 1 small Onion, chopped; 2 cloves Garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Cumin; 1 teaspoon Chili powder; to taste Salt and pepper; 1 tablespoon Vegetable oil; 1 can Red enchilada sauce (10 oz) (Choose mild or spicy); 8 pieces Flour tortillas; 2 cups Shredded Monterey Jack cheese; for garnish Chopped cilantro; for serving Sour cream

If you are searching for a comforting, flavorful meal to satisfy your craving for Mexican-inspired cuisine, this Chicken Enchiladas Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Combining tender shredded chicken with gooey melted cheese and a rich, zesty enchilada sauce wrapped inside soft flour tortillas, this dish is an explosion of textures and tastes that will warm your soul. Whether you’re whipping it up for a weeknight dinner or sharing it with friends, these enchiladas bring a festive vibe and delicious satisfaction every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows ingredients for a meal arranged on a white marbled surface. In the top left, there is a white bowl filled with shredded cooked chicken that is white with some light brown parts. To the right of this bowl, there is a smaller clear bowl with thick red salsa that has a slightly rough texture. Next to the salsa is a glass bottle with yellow olive oil. Below the chicken bowl, there are two whole garlic bulbs with a smooth, papery white skin. Below and slightly to the right of the garlic, there is a bunch of bright green cilantro with leafy textures. To the right of the cilantro, a small clear bowl holds white sour cream with a creamy, smooth surface. Above the sour cream is another smaller clear bowl filled with shredded yellow cheese. Below the cheese bowl, there is a clear bowl with small diced white onions. Next to the diced onions, on the right side of the image, there are five stacked white tortillas with light brown spots and a soft texture. Between the tortillas and the diced onions, there is a small white bowl containing reddish-brown spice powder. The colors and textures create a layered and balanced visual of fresh ingredients ready to be prepared. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple yet essential, each ingredient in this Chicken Enchiladas Recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the savory chicken to the vibrant enchilada sauce and creamy cheese, together they create that signature delicious bite you’ll crave again and again.

2 cups Cooked and shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken works perfectly to save time without sacrificing flavor.
1 can Red enchilada sauce (10 oz): Choose mild or spicy based on your heat preference; it adds that authentic tangy kick.
2 cups Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, offering creamy richness throughout.
8 pieces Flour tortillas: Soft and pliable, they wrap the filling just right for easy rolling.
1 tablespoon Vegetable oil: Ideal for sautéing the onions and garlic to build a flavorful base.
1 small Onion, chopped: Adds a natural sweetness and depth to the filling.
2 cloves Garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic flavor.
1 teaspoon Cumin: Brings earthy warmth that complements the spice blend.
1 teaspoon Chili powder: Provides a vibrant, smoky layer of heat.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
Chopped cilantro, for garnish: A fresh burst of color and brightness when sprinkled on top.
Sour cream, for serving: Adds a cool, creamy tang that pairs wonderfully with the spiced enchiladas.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cooking the chicken thoroughly. Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut, but if you prefer fresh, boiling or baking works well. Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks or your hands to get tender, pull-apart pieces that soak up the sauce beautifully.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they become soft and fragrant—about 3 to 4 minutes. This step unlocks the foundational flavors that will elevate your enchiladas.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Spices

Add the shredded chicken to the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic. Sprinkle the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper evenly, stirring to coat all the chicken. Cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the spices to meld into every bite.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish

Pour a small amount of the red enchilada sauce into the bottom of your baking dish. This prevents the enchiladas from sticking and adds a saucy layer of flavor on the dish’s base.

Step 5: Assemble the Enchiladas

Take one flour tortilla and add a generous spoonful of the chicken mixture in the center. Sprinkle some shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top, then roll tightly and place it seam side down in the baking dish. Repeat this with all tortillas until the dish is full.

Step 6: Add Sauce and Cheese Topping

Pour the remaining red enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas. Sprinkle the rest of the shredded cheese across the top, ensuring a cheesy, bubbly finish once baked.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese turns golden and bubbly—your signal that the enchiladas are ready.

Step 8: Rest and Garnish

Allow the enchiladas to rest for a few minutes after baking. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro to add a bright, herbal touch that balances the richness of the dish.

How to Serve Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

A glass rectangular baking dish sits on a white marbled surface. Inside the dish, there are seven rolled tortillas filled and lined up neatly in a single layer, covered with a thick layer of red tomato sauce and topped with shredded white cheese. A woman's hands are rolling the last tortilla over the others. Around the dish, there are four bowls: one with more red tomato sauce at the top left, one filled with shredded white cheese at the top center and top right, and one smaller bowl with some salt near the top right edge. The scene shows the baker in the middle of preparing the dish, with a clean and organized setup. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh chopped cilantro is more than a pretty touch; it livens up the dish with herbal brightness. A dollop of sour cream on the side adds a cooling contrast to the zesty enchiladas, making every bite perfectly balanced.

Side Dishes

These enchiladas pair beautifully with simple sides like Mexican rice or refried beans to round out the meal. Light salads or roasted vegetables also complement the richness, keeping your plate colorful and fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive twist, serve your enchiladas in individual ramekins or bake in mini casserole dishes. You can also sprinkle extra cheese and cilantro at the table for guests to customize their servings, making it an interactive and fun dining experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover enchiladas keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop overnight, making for even tastier leftovers.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked enchiladas either before or after baking. Wrap tightly in foil or store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat enchiladas covered with foil in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. This helps retain moisture and keeps the cheese melty without drying out the dish.

FAQs

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Absolutely! Corn tortillas add an authentic touch and slightly different texture. To prevent cracking, warm them briefly before rolling to make them more pliable.

Is it possible to make this Chicken Enchiladas Recipe spicy?

Yes! Use a spicier enchilada sauce or add extra chili powder or diced jalapeños to the filling for a fiery boost that suits your heat tolerance.

Can I prepare the enchiladas vegetarian style?

Definitely. Substitute the chicken with roasted vegetables, black beans, or a combination of both. Adjust the seasoning and sauce to keep the vibrant flavors intact.

What’s the best cheese to use if I don’t have Monterey Jack?

Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of Mexican cheeses work great as alternatives. Aim for cheeses that melt well to achieve that creamy texture.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cheese substitutes and skip the sour cream or replace it with a plant-based option like cashew cream. Make sure your enchilada sauce is also free from dairy ingredients.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Chicken Enchiladas Recipe enough for your next meal—it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings warmth, vibrant flavors, and comfort to your table. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting started, this dish is straightforward to make and incredibly satisfying. Give it a try and experience the joy of homemade enchiladas bursting with flavor and love!