Description
Creamy Chicken Enchiladas
Ingredients:
3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorite blend)
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1 can (10 oz) cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp chili powder
6 large flour tortillas
Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, and chili powder. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Enchiladas:
Lay a tortilla flat and place a generous amount of shredded chicken and cheese in the center. Roll the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Repeat for all tortillas.
Add the Sauce:
Pour the creamy sauce over the rolled tortillas, ensuring they are evenly covered. Sprinkle additional cheese on top if desired.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy!
Chef’s Tip: Pair these enchiladas with Mexican rice and a fresh avocado salad for a complete meal.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep Chicken & Preheat: Ensure your chicken is fully cooked and shredded. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
2. Make the Sauce: In a large bowl, vigorously whisk the softened cream cheese and sour cream until combined. Add the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, and chili powder. Whisk until perfectly smooth.
3. Mix the Filling: In a separate bowl, combine the 3 cups of shredded chicken with about 1/2 cup of the prepared creamy sauce. This adds moisture and flavor to the filling.
4. Assemble: Lay a tortilla flat. Spoon a portion of the chicken mixture and a sprinkle of cheese down the center. Roll tightly and place seam-side down in the dish. Repeat.
5. Top & Bake: Pour the remaining sauce evenly over all enchiladas. Top with the remaining shredded cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
6. Final Touch: Let rest for 5 minutes after baking, then garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Serving Suggestions
For a vibrant, balanced meal, serve these creamy enchiladas with:
– Classic Sides: Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple corn salad.
– Fresh Elements: A crisp avocado salad, pico de gallo, or a dollop of guacamole to cut through the richness.
– Toppings Bar: Set out extra sour cream, sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges for customization.
How-to Summary
Shred cooked chicken. Make a creamy sauce from sour cream, cream cheese, soup, broth, and spices. Mix some sauce with the chicken for filling. Roll filling in tortillas, place in a dish, cover with remaining sauce and cheese. Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes. Garnish and serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour? Yes, but corn tortillas can crack. Briefly warm them in a skillet or dip in sauce to make them pliable before rolling.
How can I make this dish spicier? Add diced green chiles to the filling, use a pepper jack cheese blend, or increase the chili powder. Top with a drizzle of hot sauce.
Can I prepare these enchiladas ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish, covered with foil, in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup? For a homemade version, make a simple white sauce (a roux with milk) and add extra chicken bouillon or seasoning for flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Cold Cream Cheese: Ensure it is softened to room temperature to avoid lumpy sauce.
- Overfilling Tortillas: This causes them to tear and makes rolling difficult. Use a moderate amount of filling.
- Skipping the Dish Grease: Always grease your baking dish to prevent sticking and messy cleanup.
- Baking Uncovered: While not always required, if your cheese is browning too quickly, loosely tent the dish with foil.
Conclusion
These creamy chicken enchiladas are the ultimate comfort food, perfectly balancing rich, cheesy flavor with simple preparation. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that is sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to personalize it with your preferred toppings and sides for a truly satisfying dining experience.