Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, offering everything you crave in a comfort meal: tender chicken, gooey cheese, and a flavorful, savory sauce. The combination of cheddar and mozzarella provides the perfect balance of sharpness and melt-in-your-mouth creaminess. With easy-to-find ingredients and a simple preparation method, it’s a no-fuss recipe that guarantees great results. Plus, it’s easily customizable—add more toppings or adjust the spiciness to suit your preferences. It’s an all-around family favorite!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup water or chicken broth
For the Enchiladas:
- 10 flour tortillas
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Shred the chicken using two forks and set aside.
- Assemble the Enchiladas: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a small amount of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the dish. Lay the tortillas flat and fill each one with a portion of the shredded chicken. Top the chicken with cheese, then roll up the tortillas tightly.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Place the rolled-up tortillas seam side down in the baking dish. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top of the tortillas. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses generously over the enchiladas.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro. Optionally, serve with a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
- Enjoy: Serve with your favorite sides like rice, beans, or a fresh salad. Perfect for a cozy family dinner!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6 people
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Variations
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed onions, bell peppers, or corn into the chicken mixture for added flavor and texture.
- Spicy Enchiladas: Add jalapeños to the filling or mix some hot sauce into the enchilada sauce for a spicy kick.
- Protein Options: You can substitute chicken with ground beef, turkey for a different twist.
- Cheese Variations: Use Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a slightly different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes.
FAQs
How can I make the enchiladas spicier?
To add more heat, use spicy enchilada sauce or include diced jalapeños in the chicken mixture.
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Yes, corn tortillas are a great alternative. They may be slightly more fragile, so be careful when rolling them up.
Can I freeze these enchiladas?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled enchiladas before baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time to the cooking time.
Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the enchiladas up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
What other types of cheese can I use for this recipe?
In addition to cheddar and mozzarella, you can try using Gouda, Swiss, or even a Mexican blend of cheese.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free tortillas instead of regular flour tortillas for a gluten-free version.
Can I add beans to the filling?
Yes, black beans or refried beans can be added to the filling for extra flavor and texture.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own chicken breasts?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken can save time and still result in delicious enchiladas. Just shred the chicken and season it as needed.
How do I prevent the tortillas from getting soggy?
To avoid soggy tortillas, make sure not to soak them too much in the enchilada sauce before rolling them up. A light coating is enough.
Can I add sour cream to the enchiladas before baking them?
While sour cream is usually added as a topping after baking, you can mix it into the filling for a creamier texture if you prefer.
Conclusion
Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas are the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just making dinner for your family, these enchiladas are sure to be a hit. Serve with your favorite sides, top with sour cream, and enjoy a cozy, satisfying meal!
Print
Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas are a comforting and satisfying meal packed with flavorful chicken, gooey cheese, and savory enchilada sauce. With a perfect blend of cheddar and mozzarella, this easy recipe delivers cheesy indulgence with a Mexican twist. Ideal for family dinners or weeknight meals, these enchiladas are quick to prepare, easily customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup water or chicken broth
For the Enchiladas:
10 flour tortillas
1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
-
Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Shred the chicken using two forks and set aside.
-
Assemble the Enchiladas: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a little enchilada sauce on the bottom of the dish. Lay the tortillas flat and fill each with a portion of the shredded chicken. Top with cheese, then roll the tortillas tightly.
-
Add Sauce and Cheese: Place the rolled tortillas seam side down in the prepared dish. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
-
Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
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Serve: Let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
-
Enjoy: Serve with rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a delicious, comforting meal!
Notes
Add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or corn to the chicken for extra flavor.
For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the chicken filling.
You can swap out chicken for ground beef, turkey, for a different protein.
For a unique cheese flavor, try Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
