These Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas Recipe is a delightful dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with the right amount of spice. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, these enchiladas are not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavors that will impress your family and friends. With tender chicken, rich cream cheese, and zesty green chilis enveloped in warm tortillas, this recipe stands out for its simplicity and taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 50 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With rich flavors and melting cheese, these enchiladas will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
- Versatile Dish: You can customize the toppings and side dishes to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and simply bake when you’re ready to serve, perfect for meal prep.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: The combination of creaminess and spice makes this dish cozy and comforting.
Tools and Preparation
To make these Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas Recipe, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9 x 13 baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Non-stick cooking spray
- Spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- 9 x 13 baking dish: This size is perfect for holding all the enchiladas comfortably while allowing even heating.
- Mixing bowl: A good-sized bowl is essential for combining ingredients without any mess.
- Non-stick cooking spray: Helps prevent sticking, ensuring that your enchiladas come out easily after baking.
Ingredients
This Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas Recipe features a blend of simple yet flavorful ingredients.
For the Enchiladas
- 18 ounces green enchilada sauce (can substitute red)
- 3 cups rotisserie chicken (or leftover cooked chicken, cubed)
- 8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
- 4 ounces canned green chilis
- 3 cups cheddar cheese (shredded plus more for the top if desired)
- 8 large flour tortillas
For Garnish
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1 whole avocado (sliced)
How to Make Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. This ensures that your enchiladas bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Spray a 9 x 13 baking dish lightly with non-stick cooking spray. Spread about 1 cup of enchilada sauce into the bottom of the dish.
Step 3: Mix Filling Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, combine:
1. Rotisserie chicken (or leftover cooked chicken)
2. Room temperature cream cheese
3. Canned green chilis
4. 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
Mix well until combined.
Step 4: Assemble Enchiladas
Fill each tortilla with about 1/2 cup of the chicken mixture. Roll up tightly and place them seam side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat this process until all tortillas are filled.
Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top of the rolled tortillas. Then sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese.
Step 6: Bake
Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until heated through and cheese is golden brown.
Step 7: Serve with Toppings
Top with sour cream, salsa, chopped tomatoes, and sliced avocados if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas!
How to Serve Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Serving Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas is as delightful as making them. These enchiladas are versatile and can be paired with various toppings and sides, enhancing their flavor profile and presentation.
Toppings
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy contrast to the spicy enchiladas.
- Salsa: Fresh salsa not only enhances the taste but also adds a refreshing crunch.
- Chopped Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes bring acidity and brightness to each bite.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices provide a rich texture that complements the dish.
Side Salads
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: Sweet corn mixed with lime, cheese, and spices offers a vibrant side.
- Cucumber Tomato Salad: This light salad refreshes the palate with its crisp vegetables.
Additional Suggestions
- Rice: Spanish rice or cilantro lime rice pairs nicely for a complete meal.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and make the dish heartier.
How to Perfect Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Perfecting your Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas involves attention to detail. Here are some tips for achieving delicious results every time.
- Bold seasoning: Don’t shy away from seasoning your chicken mixture well; it elevates the overall flavor.
- Use room temperature cream cheese: This facilitates easier mixing with the other ingredients, ensuring a smooth filling.
- Choose fresh tortillas: Using fresh tortillas helps avoid tearing and makes rolling easier.
- Layer flavors appropriately: Ensure each layer of sauce, filling, and cheese is balanced for optimal flavor in every bite.
Best Side Dishes for Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
When serving Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas, pairing them with complementary side dishes can create a satisfying meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices adds substance to your plate.
- Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip enhances flavors while providing a cool contrast.
- Black Beans: Protein-packed black beans offer heartiness and balance the spice of the enchiladas.
- Corn Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips serve as a fun accompaniment for dipping into salsas or guacamole.
- Pico de Gallo: Fresh and zesty, this salsa adds brightness alongside the enchiladas.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned grilled veggies provide color and nutrients to round out the meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making green chili chicken enchiladas can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can lead to disappointing results. Avoid these pitfalls for the best outcome.
- Skipping the cream cheese: Not using cream cheese can make your enchiladas dry. Ensure you blend it well with the chicken for a creamy texture.
- Overfilling the tortillas: If you fill them too much, they may break apart. Stick to about 1/2 cup of filling per tortilla to maintain their shape.
- Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold cream cheese or chicken will affect the melting process. Always use room temperature ingredients for even cooking.
- Not covering with sauce: Failing to pour enough enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas can result in a dry dish. Make sure to coat them evenly before baking.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Preheat your oven properly to ensure perfect results.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
- For best results, keep any toppings separate until ready to serve.
Freezing Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
- Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, covered, until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water; cover until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use red sauce instead of green sauce in this Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute red enchilada sauce if you prefer its flavor. It will give your dish a different taste but still be delicious!
How can I customize my Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas Recipe?
Feel free to add different vegetables like bell peppers or corn. You can also adjust the level of spiciness by choosing mild or hot green chilis.
What is the best way to serve Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas?
Serve these enchiladas hot from the oven topped with sour cream, salsa, chopped tomatoes, and avocado slices for added freshness and flavor.
Can I make these Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up until baking and store them in the fridge overnight or freeze them for later use.
Final Thoughts
This green chili chicken enchiladas recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. Its creamy texture and customizable toppings make it a versatile choice for any meal. Give it a try and enjoy experimenting with your favorite ingredients!
Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
This Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas recipe offers a mouthwatering blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with a delightful kick of spice. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, these enchiladas are quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. Tender rotisserie chicken, smooth cream cheese, and zesty green chilis are wrapped in warm tortillas and topped with melted cheese, making this dish both comforting and satisfying. Serve it hot from the oven with your favorite toppings for an unforgettable meal that will impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 18 ounces green enchilada sauce
- 3 cups rotisserie chicken, cubed
- 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- 4 ounces canned green chilis
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 large flour tortillas
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Spray a 9" x 13" baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and spread about 1 cup of enchilada sauce on the bottom.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the rotisserie chicken, cream cheese, green chilis, and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until well mixed.
- Place about 1/2 cup of the filling into each tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam side down in the baking dish.
- Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes or until heated through and cheese is golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 enchilada (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Feel free to modify the recipe by adding vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra nutrition. For spice lovers, opt for spicy green chilis to elevate the heat level.