Easy Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Craving a delicious and easy dinner option? Look no further than this delightful green chili chicken enchiladas recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite! With tender chicken, zesty green chilis, and gooey cheese, it’s a perfect meal for any night of the week. Plus, it’s quick and simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for those busy evenings when time is of the essence.
I remember the first time my grandmother made these enchiladas; the tantalizing aroma filled the entire house. It was a dish she would prepare for special occasions, and eventually, it became a staple at every family gathering. The secret, she said, was in using the freshest ingredients and making it with love. The enchiladas inevitably drew “oohs” and “aahs” from the family and are still a beloved memory in our household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is not just a delightful combination of flavors, but it’s also incredibly practical for busy home chefs. You’ll appreciate how quickly it comes together, allowing you more time to spend relaxing rather than being tied to the kitchen. The balance of spicy and savory is a hit at any dinner table, and it can easily accommodate different preferences.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour!
- Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults.
- Customizable: Easily adapt to suit dietary needs.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients Notes
Using quality ingredients can elevate this dish to new heights. Opt for freshly cooked chicken or if you’re in a crunch, a rotisserie chicken works wonders. The green chilis give this dish its signature flavor, so choose canned or fresh, based on availability. To add creaminess, select a good melting cheese like Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to ensure the enchiladas don’t stick during baking.
Step 2
In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onions and garlic until they become translucent. Add shredded chicken and green chilis, seasoning with salt and pepper as per your taste.
Step 3
Fill each tortilla with a generous amount of the chicken mixture and some cheese. Roll them up tightly and place them seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
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Step 4
Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, covering them completely. Top with the remaining cheese, ensuring even distribution.
Step 5
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Storage Options
To store leftover enchiladas, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in foil. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes or until heated through.
Variations & Substitutions
For a vegetarian twist, replace chicken with roasted vegetables or black beans. Substitute flour tortillas with corn tortillas for a gluten-free option. To add more spice, include jalapeños in the filling or hot salsa as a topping.
Serving Suggestions
These green chili chicken enchiladas are excellent for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. Serve them with a side of Mexican rice, guacamole, and a crisp salad. For a refreshing beverage pairing, consider a chilled margarita or a crisp beer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the enchiladas as directed but do not bake them. Cover tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding an additional 5–10 minutes to the baking time.
Are there alternative fillings I can use?
Certainly! While chicken is the classic choice, shredded beef or pork are great alternatives. Vegetarians can enjoy a mixture of mushrooms, spinach, and cheese as a filling.
What type of cheese works best?
A good melting cheese like Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend works perfectly. However, feel free to experiment with cheddar or queso fresco for different flavor profiles.
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Easy Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded chicken cooked
- 3 cups green enchilada sauce
- 8 pieces corn tortillas
- 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese shredded
- 1 cup sour cream for serving
- 0.25 cup chopped cilantro for garnish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Warm the tortillas in the microwave for about 20 seconds to make them pliable. Fill each tortilla with a portion of the chicken mixture and roll tightly.
- Spread 1 cup of the enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down in the dish.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the tortillas and sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with sour cream.
Notes
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