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Easy Chicken Enchiladas with Melted Cheese Recipe

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3.9 from 288 reviews

Chicken Enchiladas are a comforting, flavor-packed dish made with seasoned shredded chicken, rolled tortillas, enchilada sauce, and melted cheese. This easy baked recipe is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining, combining savory spices with gooey cheese and tender chicken wrapped in warm tortillas.

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4–6 servings

Ingredients

Filling

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie works well)
  • ½ cup diced onion
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup enchilada sauce

Assembly

  • 8–10 small flour or corn tortillas
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1½ cups shredded Mexican-blend cheese (or cheddar/Monterey Jack)
  • 1½ cups enchilada sauce (red or green), divided
  • Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking during baking.
  2. Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with ½ cup of enchilada sauce, diced onion, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices and sauce throughout the chicken.
  3. Warm the Tortillas: Gently warm each tortilla to make them pliable and easier to roll without cracking. This can be done in a microwave wrapped in a damp towel or briefly on a skillet.
  4. Assemble the Enchiladas: Spoon the chicken mixture down the center of each warmed tortilla. Sprinkle some shredded cheese over the filling. Roll each tortilla tightly and place seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
  5. Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas in the dish. Then, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top to create a cheesy, bubbling crust when baked.
  6. Bake: Bake the enchiladas uncovered in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is fully melted and golden.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve the enchiladas warm, optionally accompanied by sour cream, guacamole, or a side of rice and beans.

Notes

  • Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas for a gluten-free version of this dish.
  • Add black beans or corn to the chicken filling for additional texture and flavor.
  • Serve with traditional sides like sour cream, guacamole, or Mexican rice and beans to complete the meal.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
  • Author: Jessica
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican-American

Find it online: https://dishestocook.com/easy-chicken-enchiladas-with-melted-cheese-recipe/