How to Make Chicken Enchiladas (Recipe Guide)

Our guide on How to Make Chicken Enchiladas for you to try at home.

Chicken enchiladas are a classic Mexican dish featuring tender shredded chicken wrapped in tortillas and baked in a flavorful enchilada sauce with melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this dish is comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to prepare.

Chicken enchiladas are a crowd-pleaser, combining rich, bold flavors with gooey, cheesy comfort. With easy-to-follow steps and room for customization, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.

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How to Make Chicken Enchiladas

Chicken Enchiladas Recipe Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling:
2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
1 cup sour cream or cream cheese (optional for creamier filling)
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
2 cups enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 tsp chipotle powder (optional for extra heat)
1/2 cup chicken broth (to thin out the sauce, if needed)
For Assembly:
8-10 flour or corn tortillas
1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (for topping)
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Sour cream or guacamole (optional for serving)

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Step By Step How to Make Chicken Enchiladas

Prepare the Chicken Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, 1 cup of cheese, onion, sour cream (if using), cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly combined.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat the enchilada sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Add chipotle powder for extra heat, and thin with chicken broth if the sauce is too thick.

Assemble the Enchiladas

Spread 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Lay a tortilla flat, spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken filling down the center, and roll it tightly. Place the rolled tortilla seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, ensuring they are fully covered. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot. Add optional toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or sliced jalapeños for extra flavor.

Tips To Make Chicken Enchiladas

It’s a quick and flavorful option for the shredded chicken. Heat tortillas in the microwave or on a skillet to make them pliable and prevent cracking when rolling.

Adjust the spice level by adding or reducing chili powder, chipotle, or jalapeños. Use a blend that melts well, like Monterey Jack or cheddar.

Assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

How Many Calories Have Chicken Enchiladas

Calories: ~400-450 kcal (based on 8 servings)
Protein: ~25g
Carbohydrates: ~30g
Fat: ~20g
Fiber: ~3g

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with black beans, roasted vegetables, or tofu.

Spicy Enchiladas: Add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling.

Creamy Enchiladas: Use cream cheese in the filling for an extra creamy texture.

Low-Carb Version: Use low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps.