The Best Homemade Chicken Enchilada Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This homemade chicken enchilada recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun family meal, and it’s surprisingly simple to make. You’ll love how the flavors come together in every bite, making it a dish you’ll want to make again and again.

• Easy to Customize: Add your favorite veggies, swap the protein, or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Warm, cheesy, and packed with flavor, these enchiladas are pure comfort in every bite.
• Great for Leftovers: They taste just as good the next day, making them perfect for meal prep or quick lunches.

Recipe

Craving a savory and comforting meal? Try this homemade chicken enchilada recipe, packed with bold flavors and easy to prepare. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish will surely become a favorite.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 8-10 flour tortillas
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, sautéed onion, sour cream, diced green chilies, cumin, chili powder, half of the cheddar cheese, and half of the Monterey Jack cheese. Mix well.
4. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
5. Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
6. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, ensuring they are fully covered.
7. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and serve warm.

Notes:

• Use rotisserie chicken for added convenience.
• For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use hot enchilada sauce.
• Corn tortillas can be substituted for flour tortillas if preferred.

Equipment:

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Time:

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Cuisine: Mexican

Serving:

Serves: 4-6

Nutrition

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This homemade chicken enchilada recipe provides a delicious and balanced meal. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.

What To Serve With It

I always like to pair my chicken enchiladas with some fresh sides, like cilantro-lime rice or a zesty black bean salad, to balance the flavors. For drinks, I’d go with something revitalizing, maybe a cold Mexican soda or a fruity agua fresca to keep things light. Adding these extras makes the meal feel complete and keeps everyone coming back for more!

Side Dishes

Since chicken enchiladas are already packed with flavor, you’ll want sides that complement them without stealing the spotlight. I love serving a simple avocado salad with lime dressing—it’s fresh, creamy, and balances the richness of the enchiladas. Cilantro-lime rice is another favorite; it’s light and adds a nice texture without being too heavy. If I’m craving something crunchy, I’ll make a quick corn and black bean salsa or serve tortilla chips with guacamole. Roasted vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, are also a great option—they’re easy to prepare and add a touch of color to the plate.

Beverage Pairings

After enjoying those delicious sides with your chicken enchiladas, you’ll want something invigorating to sip on. I love pairing mine with a crisp Mexican lager—it cuts through the richness perfectly. If you prefer non-alcoholic, try a tangy limeade or hibiscus tea for a revitalizing twist. For something bolder, a smoky mezcal margarita adds depth to every bite. My go-to is always horchata—its creamy sweetness balances the spices beautifully. Don’t forget ice-cold agua fresca if you’re keeping it light. Whatever you choose, make sure it complements the flavors without overpowering them. Cheers to the perfect meal!