Welcome to the ultimate guide for crafting the most delectable Creamy Chicken Enchiladas! If you’re searching for an incredibly easy, quick, and undeniably delicious weeknight dinner that the entire family will adore, look no further. This recipe brings together tender shredded chicken, sweet corn, and a harmonious blend of zesty salsa, rich sour cream, mild green chiles, and a hint of smoky chipotle pepper, all lovingly wrapped in soft tortillas and smothered in a creamy, flavorful sauce and melted cheese. It’s a Mexican-inspired dish that promises comfort, convenience, and a burst of authentic taste without the hassle. Get ready to transform your dinner table with these irresistible enchiladas!
Why These Creamy Chicken Enchiladas Will Become Your New Favorite
These aren’t just any chicken enchiladas; they are a culinary triumph designed for busy home cooks who refuse to compromise on flavor. Here’s why this recipe will earn a permanent spot in your weekly rotation:
- Effortlessly Quick and Simple: Forget complicated steps and lengthy prep times. Our Creamy Chicken Enchiladas are engineered for speed and ease, making them the quintessential solution for those hectic weeknights when you need a satisfying meal on the table without stress. From start to finish, you can expect a mouthwatering dinner in under an hour, proving that incredible flavor doesn’t have to demand excessive effort.
- Rich, Unforgettable Flavor Profile: The magic lies in the creamy, flavorful chicken filling. Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of savory chicken, sweet corn, and a vibrant sauce that’s both tangy from the sour cream and zesty from the salsa. The subtle warmth of the green chiles and the smoky depth of the chipotle pepper elevate the taste, creating a robust and comforting experience that truly stands out. It’s a taste sensation that will keep everyone coming back for more!
- Wholesome, Homemade Enchilada Sauce: Say goodbye to store-bought, sugar-laden sauces. Our enchilada sauce is crafted from scratch using fresh, simple ingredients, ensuring a pure and authentic taste. By controlling exactly what goes into your sauce, you can enjoy a delicious meal that is free from unnecessary added sugars and artificial ingredients, making it a healthier choice for your family.
- Adaptable for Dietary Needs: We believe everyone should enjoy delicious food. This recipe is incredibly versatile, especially for those with dietary restrictions. If you’re aiming for a gluten-free dinner, simply opt for grain-free tortillas. The filling and sauce are naturally accommodating, allowing you to tailor this Mexican delight to various preferences without sacrificing taste or texture.
- A Versatile Meal for Any Occasion: While these simple chicken enchiladas are fantastic on their own, they also serve as an excellent foundation for a more elaborate spread. Transform your dinner into a Mexican feast by pairing them with fresh sides. Consider a crisp Guacamole Salad for a refreshing crunch, or vibrant Cucumber Salsa or Roasted Chili Corn Salsa for an extra burst of flavor. For an ultimate party vibe, don’t hesitate to whip up a couple of festive margaritas to complement the rich flavors!
Expert Chef’s Tips for Perfect Enchiladas Every Time
Achieving enchilada perfection is easier than you think with a few insider tricks. These professional tips will help you elevate your dish and ensure a smooth cooking process, resulting in consistently delicious outcomes:
- Mastering Salt Levels in Taco Seasoning: Commercial taco seasonings can vary significantly in their salt content. It’s crucial to check your specific brand’s ingredients before adding extra salt to your recipe. To gain complete control over the sodium in your dish and customize the flavor profile to your liking, we highly recommend making your own homemade taco seasoning. This simple step ensures your enchiladas are perfectly seasoned, never too salty or bland.
- Smart Shortcuts for Ultimate Convenience: Life gets busy, and convenience is key. This recipe is designed to be flexible. To save precious time and effort, feel free to use a store-bought rotisserie chicken, which comes perfectly cooked and shredded. For the corn, both frozen and canned options work beautifully; simply choose whichever is most convenient for you. These shortcuts allow you to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Healthier Swaps for Guilt-Free Indulgence: If you’re looking to lighten up these easy chicken enchiladas without sacrificing flavor, simple substitutions can make a big difference. Opt for low-fat sour cream and reduced-fat cheese. These alternatives provide the same creamy texture and cheesy goodness while reducing the overall fat and calorie content, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish with a little less guilt.
- Tortilla Softening Secret: For flour tortillas that roll easily without tearing, briefly warm them. You can do this by wrapping a stack in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 30-60 seconds, or by quickly passing them over an open flame or on a dry skillet for a few seconds per side. This makes them pliable and prevents cracks during rolling.
- Don’t Overstuff: While it’s tempting to load up each tortilla, overstuffing can lead to torn tortillas and a messy presentation. Aim for about 1/3 to 1/2 cup of filling per taco-sized tortilla to ensure easy rolling and even cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken Enchiladas
Here are some common questions and helpful answers to ensure your enchilada-making experience is smooth and successful:
Absolutely! These creamy chicken enchiladas are a fantastic make-ahead meal, perfect for meal prepping or entertaining. You can fully assemble the enchiladas and arrange them in your baking dish, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store them in the refrigerator for up to a few hours before you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to cook, simply remove from the fridge, uncover, and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold. Cooked enchiladas will also keep well, covered, in the fridge for approximately 3 days and can be conveniently reheated in the oven or microwave, making them ideal for leftovers.
Traditionally, corn tortillas are a classic choice for authentic Mexican enchiladas, offering a distinct flavor and texture. However, for ease of rolling and a less prone-to-tear experience, many, including myself, prefer using flour tortillas. They are much more pliable and forgiving, making assembly a breeze. The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability, so feel free to use your favorite tortilla wraps. Whether you opt for whole wheat, low carb, coconut flour, or paleo cassava tortillas, choose the type that best suits your dietary needs and taste preferences. Just ensure they are taco-sized for optimal filling distribution and rolling.
Yes, these enchiladas freeze beautifully, making them an excellent option for future meals! To freeze, prepare the enchiladas according to the instructions, but do not bake them. Assemble them in a freezer-safe baking dish, cover tightly with a layer of plastic wrap and then a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed, or bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 30-45 minutes to the baking time or until heated through and bubbly.
This recipe offers a mild-to-medium spice level with one chipotle pepper, which primarily adds a smoky depth rather than intense heat. If you prefer a milder dish, you can omit the chipotle pepper entirely. For those who love a fiery kick, consider adding a second chipotle pepper, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. You can also incorporate finely diced jalapeños or serrano peppers into the chicken filling for an extra layer of heat. Always taste the sauce before assembling to ensure the spice level is just right for your preference.
More Easy Weeknight Chicken Recipes to Explore
- Creamy Keto White Chicken Chili
- Easy Keto Chicken and Dumplings
- Healthy Tostadas with Shredded Chicken
- Creamy Chicken and Orzo Bake
- Easy Loaded Buffalo Chicken Flatbread
- Easy Instant Pot Chicken Paprikash
- 20-Minute Spicy Chicken Ramen
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For more delicious recipes and culinary inspiration, be sure to visit our sister sites, 40 Aprons and Easy Cheap Recipes.
Creamy Chicken Enchiladas: Your New Weeknight Favorite!
By Cheryl Malik
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (a convenient store-bought rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned, ensure it’s well-drained)
- 6-8 flour tortillas (taco size; traditional corn tortillas or grain-free alternatives like cassava flour, coconut flour, whole wheat, or low carb varieties are also great options for easy rolling)
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or mozzarella, for a delightfully melty and creamy topping)
- 1 cup salsa (use your preferred mild or medium salsa for optimal flavor)
- 1 chipotle pepper (from a can of chipotles in adobo sauce, for a smoky, subtle heat; adjust to taste)
- 1 cup sour cream or yogurt (full-fat sour cream for ultimate richness or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 tbsp taco seasoning (ensure to check its salt content; homemade is always best!)
- 4 ounces canned diced green chiles (provides a subtle, tangy flavor without much heat)
Equipment
- 9 x 13 inch baking dish (or similar size for 6-8 enchiladas)
- Blender or food processor
- Large mixing bowl
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the optimal temperature when your enchiladas are ready to bake, allowing for even cooking and perfectly melted cheese.
- Lightly spray a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This crucial step prevents the enchiladas from sticking to the pan and makes cleanup significantly easier. You can also use a thin layer of butter or oil if preferred.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the salsa, the chipotle pepper (remove seeds for less heat, if desired), sour cream (or Greek yogurt), taco seasoning, and a pinch of salt. Blend these ingredients until you achieve a wonderfully smooth and creamy consistency. Remember to taste the sauce here and adjust the salt as necessary, especially if your taco seasoning already contains a significant amount.
- Once the sauce is smooth, gently stir in the canned diced green chiles. Stirring them in after blending helps to maintain their texture and distributes their mild flavor evenly throughout the sauce.
- Measure out approximately 1 ½ cups of this delicious sauce and set it aside; this will be used for topping the enchiladas later. Pour the remaining sauce into a large mixing bowl. Add the shredded cooked chicken and corn to the bowl with the sauce and stir thoroughly until the chicken and corn are completely coated. Finally, mix in 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese, ensuring it’s well incorporated into the filling mixture.
- It’s time to assemble your enchiladas! Take one tortilla at a time and spoon about 1/3 to 1/2 cup of the chicken and corn mixture down the center. Roll the tortilla up tightly and place it seam-side down into your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Continue this process with the remaining tortillas and filling, arranging them snugly in a single layer. Once all enchiladas are rolled and in the dish, pour the reserved 1 ½ cups of creamy sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese generously over the sauced enchiladas, ensuring every inch is covered for that perfect golden, bubbly crust.
- Transfer the baking dish to your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is visibly bubbly around the edges and the cheese on top is beautifully melted, golden brown, and slightly crispy. If baking from cold (after refrigerating), you may need to add an additional 5-10 minutes. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade creamy chicken enchiladas!
Notes for Success
- Seasoning Savvy: Always be mindful of the salt content in your taco seasoning. If using a store-bought blend, adjust the additional salt in the sauce accordingly to prevent over-salting. Creating your own seasoning at home gives you complete control over the flavor profile and sodium levels.
- Convenience is Key: Don’t hesitate to utilize time-saving shortcuts! A pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a fantastic option for this recipe, ensuring tender, flavorful chicken without extra cooking. Similarly, frozen or canned corn works perfectly well, so choose whatever is easiest for your pantry.
- Lighter Options: For those looking to reduce the fat and calorie count, easily swap full-fat sour cream for its low-fat alternative or plain Greek yogurt. Similarly, opting for reduced-fat cheese varieties can make these delicious enchiladas a healthier choice without compromising on taste.
- Achieving Soft Tortillas: To prevent tortillas from cracking or breaking while rolling, gently warm them prior to filling. A quick microwave for 30 seconds or a brief pass over a dry skillet will make them pliable and much easier to work with, ensuring a perfectly rolled enchilada every time.
Nutrition Information
The number of total servings shown is an approximation. The actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes and the size of your tortillas.
Nutritional values provided are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients or variations. Actual macronutrient counts may vary slightly depending on specific brands, types of ingredients used, and portion control.
To accurately determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the entire finished recipe (excluding the weight of the baking container), then divide that total weight by your desired number of servings to find the precise weight of each portion.