In a kitchen filled with the rich aroma of garlic and spices, I found myself on a mission to create a dish that brings warmth and comfort. Enter my Easy Chicken and Cheese Enchiladas with Red Sauce—a delightful combination of tender chicken, melty cheese, and soft tortillas that creates a symphony of flavors and textures. This recipe isn’t just about taste; it’s a make-ahead wonder, perfect for busy weeknights or gathering loved ones around the table. Best of all, it’s versatile—whether you prefer flour or corn tortillas or want to switch up the protein, these cheesy chicken enchiladas can effortlessly adapt to your cravings. So, what toppings will you choose to elevate this comforting classic? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why are Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas a must-try?
Comforting, Familiar Flavors: Easy Chicken and Cheese Enchiladas combine beloved ingredients for a dish everyone will adore.
Make-Ahead Magic: Perfect for busy nights, assemble them a day ahead and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to dive into comfort.
Customizable Choices: Switch out proteins like beef or turkey, and play with cheese blends to craft your perfect bite!
Delightful Crunch: Enjoy a slightly crispy top that contrasts beautifully with the tender, cheesy interior—no soggy tortillas here!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for a family dinner or a gathering of friends, these enchiladas are bound to impress. Pair with a refreshing side salad or some delicious Mexican rice for a full meal; your guests will be going back for seconds!
Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas Ingredients
For the Filling
• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts – Main protein; adds heartiness and can be swapped for rotisserie chicken for quick preparation.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar jack cheese – Provides creaminess and flavor; try a Mexican cheese blend for a different taste.
• 8 flour tortillas – Encase the filling; use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option, though the texture may differ.
For the Sauce
• 3 cups enchilada sauce – Adds moisture and zest; using a homemade sauce enhances flavor, but store-bought works well too.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Amplifies flavor; garlic powder can be a quick substitute if you’re in a rush.
• Salt and ground black pepper – Adjust to your taste for perfect seasoning.
For Baking
• Cooking spray – Prevents sticking; oil or melted butter also work nicely as alternatives.
For Garnishing (Optional)
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped – Adds a pop of freshness; can be replaced with green onions for a different flavor twist.
These Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas are not just a recipe; they’re a chance to bring comfort and joy to your dining table. Let’s get cooking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature is crucial for achieving that delightful, slightly crispy top on your Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas. As the oven heats, take a moment to gather your ingredients and prepare your workspace, ensuring everything is within reach.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken in Sauce
In a deep skillet, combine 3 cups of enchilada sauce with 2 minced garlic cloves and bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat. Season your 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then submerge them in the bubbling sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let them simmer for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Step 3: Shred the Cooked Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it from the skillet and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, letting its juices mingle with the remaining enchilada sauce in the skillet. This step infuses the chicken with the robust flavors of the sauce, ensuring every bite of your Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas is packed with deliciousness.
Step 4: Make the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with ¾ cup of the enchilada sauce and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar jack cheese. Stir until everything is well mixed, creating a flavorful filling for your enchiladas. The cheese will melt beautifully as they bake, adding that gooey goodness that everyone loves.
Step 5: Warm the Tortillas
To prevent your tortillas from tearing, wrap them in a damp cloth and microwave them for about 30 seconds until warm and flexible. This will make it easier to roll them without breaking, ensuring your Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas are perfectly assembled. Set them aside and get ready to fill.
Step 6: Assemble the Enchiladas
Take a warm tortilla and spoon in a heaping ⅓ cup of the chicken filling, then roll it tightly, placing the seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Repeat this process until all the filling is used. This step creates your comforting base of Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas, ready to soak up the sauce and cheese.
Step 7: Bake for Crunch
Brush the tops of your assembled enchiladas lightly with olive oil to enhance crispness, then bake them uncovered in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. This step ensures you capture the delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender filling of your Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas.
Step 8: Add Sauce and Cheese
After the initial baking, reduce the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top of the baked enchiladas and sprinkle with the remaining cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 9: Final Bake
Remove the foil and return the dish to the oven for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the cheese to become bubbly and golden. Keep an eye on it; you want to achieve that perfect melted-cheese texture that makes these Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas irresistible!
Step 10: Rest Before Serving
After baking, let your enchiladas rest for 5-10 minutes. This step allows the flavors to settle and makes them easier to serve. Garnish with chopped cilantro or your favorite toppings, and get ready to enjoy the warm, comforting embrace of these Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Chicken and Cheese Enchiladas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the enchiladas up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them before baking. Simply prepare the filling and roll the tortillas as directed, then cover the baking dish tightly with foil to maintain freshness and prevent dryness. When you’re ready to serve, bake them straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure they heat through completely. This way, you can enjoy delicious, homemade cheesy chicken enchiladas on busy weeknights with minimal fuss, just as flavorful as if freshly made!
Expert Tips for Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas
• Avoid Overstuffing: Keep the filling modest in each tortilla to prevent tearing while rolling. A heaping ⅓ cup should be just right!
• Perfect Baking Technique: Bake the enchiladas uncovered initially to achieve that delightful crunch. This method helps to avoid soggy tortillas.
• Layer Sauce for Moisture: For even more flavor, layer a bit of enchilada sauce at the bottom of the baking dish before placing the rolled tortillas.
• Simplify with Rotisserie Chicken: Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can save time and add fantastic flavor, making your Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas even easier!
• Leftover Love: Store any uneaten enchiladas in an airtight container; they can be reheated by adding more cheese and covering with foil to keep them moist.
What to Serve with Easy Chicken and Cheese Enchiladas
To complete your meal and create a culinary fiesta, let’s explore some delicious side dishes that will elevate your Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas!
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Mexican Rice: Complements the enchiladas with its tender grains and subtle spices, adding a hearty element to your meal.
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Black Beans: Rich in protein and fiber, they provide a creamy contrast that balances the flavors of your enchiladas.
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Fresh Side Salad: A crisp salad with avocado, tomatoes, and lime dressing adds brightness and freshness, enhancing every bite.
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Guacamole: Creamy, zesty, and delicious, it’s the perfect accompaniment for dipping or drizzling over your cheesy enchiladas.
For something sweet to finish off your meal, consider homemade flan or churros to bring a delightful touch of tradition. Enjoy a chilled glass of horchata or a refreshing margarita to round out the flavors of this delightful dinner! Each pairing works harmoniously, ensuring every bite is a celebration of comfort food!
Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with these enchiladas and tailor them to your family’s tastes, ensuring a dish that warms both the heart and the belly.
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Protein Swap: Replace chicken with ground beef, turkey, or even black beans for a vegetarian delight.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing proteins! Combining shredded chicken with black beans can add a delightful texture and earthy flavor you won’t want to miss.
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Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a zesty Mexican blend for a flavor twist.
Choose cheese based on your mood; adding pepper jack infuses a warm kick, while a blend can provide complex flavors that elevate your enchiladas.
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Tortilla Type: Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option, or try whole wheat for a healthier variant.
Keep in mind that corn tortillas tend to be more delicate but offer a delightful authenticity that pairs beautifully with the flavors in these enchiladas.
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Veggie Additions: Mix in spinach, diced tomatoes, or roasted peppers into your filling for added nutrients and flavor depth.
Adding fresh veggies not only boosts nutrition but also brings vibrant colors to your casserole, creating an appealing presentation.
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Saucy Boost: Stir in diced green chilies, corn, or black olives into the enchilada sauce for an extra kick.
These additions can transform the sauce from simple to sensational, providing unexpected bursts of flavor in every bite.
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Garnish Creativity: Top with sliced avocado, diced onions, or crispy tortilla strips to add texture and freshness to your enchiladas.
The contrasting temperatures of warm enchiladas and cool toppings make each mouthful a delightful experience, worthy of your family’s admiration.
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Spice Level: Add spices such as cumin, chili powder, or jalapeños to your filling for a fiery kick.
A little heat can take your dish from comforting to unforgettable, igniting your taste buds in a way that only a good enchilada can.
For more delicious dinner ideas where you can experiment with flavors, don’t miss out on my Cheesy Garlic Chicken or BLT Chicken Salad. Happy cooking!
How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a sprinkle of cheese for extra melty goodness.
Freezer: If you want to freeze your enchiladas, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat frozen enchiladas in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for about 30 minutes or until heated through to maintain that delightful texture.
Make-Ahead Tips: You can assemble your Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas and refrigerate them a day before baking—perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings!
Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas Recipe FAQs
How can I choose the best chicken for my enchiladas?
Absolutely! For the best result, select boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are fresh and not discolored. Look for those that are plump and firm, avoiding any with dark spots. If you’re in a hurry, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic alternative that provides wonderful flavor with less prep time.
What is the best way to store leftover enchiladas?
Very good question! Store your leftover Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave. I often add a sprinkle of cheese on top before reheating to enhance the melty goodness!
Can I freeze my enchiladas, and how do I do it?
Of course! To freeze your Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then cover them with foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 350°F oven covered with foil for approximately 30 minutes until heated through.
What should I do if my tortillas tear during assembly?
No worries! If your tortillas are tearing, it could be due to being too cold or thick. To avoid this, warm them in a damp cloth for about 30 seconds in the microwave before assembling. This will make them more pliable and easier to roll without tearing. If you’re still having trouble, consider switching to corn tortillas, which tend to be sturdier.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Certainly! If you have allergies, it’s essential to check the labels of your enchilada sauce and cheese for gluten or dairy content. For gluten-free options, replace flour tortillas with gluten-free corn tortillas. For those with dairy allergies, you could swap out the cheese with a dairy-free alternative; just ensure it melts well!
Can I prepare these enchiladas in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble your Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas and refrigerate them a day prior to baking. Just cover them tightly with foil to keep them fresh. This make-ahead magic is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, allowing you to pop them in the oven when it’s time to enjoy a comforting meal!
Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas: The Ultimate Comfort Food Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Gather your ingredients and prepare your workspace.
- In a deep skillet, combine 3 cups of enchilada sauce with 2 minced garlic cloves and bring to a gentle boil. Season chicken with salt and pepper, submerge in sauce, then simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Remove chicken from skillet, let cool, then shred into bite-sized pieces and mix with remaining enchilada sauce.
- Combine shredded chicken with ¾ cup of enchilada sauce and 1 cup of cheddar jack cheese in a large bowl.
- Wrap tortillas in a damp cloth and microwave for 30 seconds until warm and flexible.
- Take a warm tortilla, spoon in ⅓ cup of filling, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Repeat until all filling is used.
- Brush tops with olive oil and bake uncovered for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden.
- Reduce oven temperature to 400°F (200°C), pour remaining enchilada sauce over, and sprinkle with remaining cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let enchiladas rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro or your favorite toppings.