Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas That Will Blow Your Mind
If you’re craving a dish that’s equal parts comforting, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors, these cheesy chicken enchiladas will blow your mind. Imagine tender shredded chicken, wrapped in soft tortillas, smothered in a rich, homemade enchilada sauce, and baked until the gooey melted cheese bubbles to perfection. Sounds irresistible, right?
What makes this recipe even better is its versatility. Whether you use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your own, these baked enchiladas come together effortlessly for a family-friendly dinner. Plus, you can easily customize the spice level, cheese blend, and toppings to suit your taste.
Looking for a full Mexican-inspired meal? Pair these enchiladas with Authentic Mexican Red Rice (Arroz Rojo) for the perfect side!
Key Benefits
If you love a meal that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor, these enchiladas are exactly what you need. Here’s why they’ll become a go-to in your kitchen:
- Irresistibly Cheesy – Every bite is packed with rich, melty cheese and a perfectly seasoned chicken filling.
- Simple & Quick – Using pre-cooked shredded chicken speeds up prep time.
- Versatile & Customizable – Adjust the spice level, cheese blend, or toppings to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a family meal or a gathering with friends, these baked enchiladas are always a hit.
Ingredients
For the Enchiladas
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or homemade)
- 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese (Monterey Jack, Cheddar, or your favorite)
- 8 soft flour tortillas (or corn tortillas for an authentic touch)
- 1 ½ cups of enchilada sauce (red or green, homemade or store-bought)
- ½ cup sour cream for added creaminess
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 green chili, diced (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For Toppings
- ½ cup of shredded cheese
- ¼ cup of sour cream
- Sliced avocado or guacamole
- Fresh pico de gallo or diced tomatoes
- Sliced jalapeños (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat & Prepare
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Make the Filling
- In a large bowl, mix together shredded chicken, onion, green chili, sour cream, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and 1 cup of cheese.
3. Assemble the Enchiladas
- Spoon about ¼ cup of the chicken mixture into each tortilla, roll it up tightly, and place it seam-side down in the baking dish.
4. Add Sauce & Cheese
- Evenly spread the enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese over the top.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
6. Serve & Enjoy
- Let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with cilantro, sour cream, avocado, or pico de gallo.
Pro Tips & Variations
- Extra Creamy: Add cream cheese to the filling for a richer texture.
- Kick Up the Heat: Use spicy enchilada sauce or add chopped chipotle peppers.
- Healthier Option: Swap flour tortillas for whole wheat or corn tortillas, and use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Make-Ahead Meal: Assemble the enchiladas, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
For another comforting baked dish, try this Chicken Chile Relleno Casserole—a delicious Mexican-inspired meal with cheesy goodness!
Serving Suggestions
Pair these cheesy chicken enchiladas with these delicious sides for a complete meal:
- Authentic Mexican Red Rice (Arroz Rojo) – The perfect complement to soak up extra sauce.
- Refried Beans – A creamy, flavorful side dish.
- Zesty Fresh Salad – Adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
- Tortilla Chips & Guacamole – Because extra avocado is always a win!
Exploring Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas
- Want a different variation? Try The Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Recipe for another take on this classic dish.
- If you’re looking for a hearty Mexican comfort dish, you’ll love this Chicken Chile Relleno Casserole.
- Pair your enchiladas with Pillowy Pull-Apart Dinner Rolls for an ultra-cozy meal.
Conclusion
These baked cheesy chicken enchiladas bring together everything you love about Mexican comfort food—tender chicken, flavorful sauce, and plenty of melty cheese. Easy to make and packed with customizable flavors, they’re sure to become a favorite in your home.
Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share how you made it your own!
FAQs
1. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Yes! Corn tortillas provide a more traditional flavor and texture. Warm them slightly before rolling to prevent tearing.
2. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
3. Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use certified gluten-free corn tortillas and check that your enchilada sauce and seasonings are gluten-free.
4. What’s the best cheese for enchiladas?
A combination of Monterey Jack and Cheddar is classic, but Pepper Jack, Queso Oaxaca, or Colby Jack are great options for extra flavor.
5. Can I freeze enchiladas?
Yes! Assemble the enchiladas without baking, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to bake, cook from frozen at 375°F for 35-40 minutes.