Description
High Protein Chicken Enchiladas
Get ready for a delicious, protein-packed dinner! These enchiladas are filled with tender shredded chicken, Greek yogurt for creaminess, and plenty of cheese, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. The red enchilada sauce brings a perfect tang, making this an easy 30-minute meal ideal for busy weeknights. Packed with 38g of protein per serving, this dish will keep you satisfied and energized. Pair with cilantro lime rice and pico de gallo for the ultimate Mexican-inspired dinner. Enjoy these hearty, healthy enchiladas—perfect for meal prep or family dinner!
1/2 cup refried beans (120g)
3/4 cup Greek yogurt (170g)
1 Tbsp taco seasoning
3 cups shredded chicken (280g)
1.5 cups shredded Mexican cheese (168g), divided
10 oz can red enchilada sauce
8 flour tortillas (8-inch)
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Mix yogurt, refried beans, taco seasoning; add chicken & 1/2 cup cheese.
3. Fill tortillas, roll, and arrange in the dish.
4. Top with enchilada sauce & remaining cheese.
5. Bake 15-20 mins. Garnish with cilantro.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Kcal: 479 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect enchiladas every time. First, preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease your baking dish. In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the Greek yogurt and refried beans until smooth. Stir in the taco seasoning. Next, fold in the shredded chicken and 1/2 cup of the shredded cheese until the mixture is evenly coated. Warm the tortillas for 20-30 seconds in the microwave to make them pliable. Spoon about 1/3 cup of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in the prepared dish. Once all tortillas are arranged, evenly pour the enchilada sauce over the top, ensuring all edges are covered to prevent drying. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the sauce. Bake on the middle rack for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete and balanced meal, serve these protein-packed enchiladas with classic Mexican-inspired sides. A fresh cilantro lime rice or cauliflower rice makes an excellent base. Add a bright, acidic contrast with homemade pico de gallo or a simple side salad dressed with lime juice. For extra creaminess, top with sliced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, or extra Greek yogurt. Don’t forget fresh chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice just before serving to elevate all the flavors.
How-to Summary
In summary: mix yogurt, beans, and seasoning with chicken and some cheese. Fill and roll tortillas, place in a dish, top with sauce and remaining cheese, then bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour? Yes, but corn tortillas can crack. Briefly fry them in hot oil or warm them in a damp towel to make them pliable before filling.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled enchiladas in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or a 350°F oven until warmed through.
What’s the best way to shred chicken? Use two forks to pull apart cooled, cooked chicken breasts. For extra moisture, use chicken cooked in broth or a slow cooker.
Can I make these enchiladas ahead? Absolutely. Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Is there a substitute for Greek yogurt? Sour cream is a direct substitute. For a dairy-free option, try a plain, unsweetened coconut yogurt.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results. First, do not overfill the tortillas, as this makes them difficult to roll and can cause them to burst open. Second, ensure your tortillas are warm and pliable before filling to prevent cracking. Third, do not skip saucing the bottom of the baking dish lightly; this adds flavor and prevents sticking. Finally, avoid overbaking, which can dry out the chicken filling—remove the dish once the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is bubbling at the edges.
Conclusion
These high-protein chicken enchiladas are the ultimate solution for a nutritious, satisfying, and quick weeknight dinner. By combining simple ingredients like shredded chicken, Greek yogurt, and flavorful enchilada sauce, you create a meal that is both indulgent and wholesome. Perfect for feeding a family or preparing for easy lunches throughout the week, this versatile recipe is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Enjoy the delicious fusion of creamy, tangy, and cheesy flavors in every bite.