Bean and Chicken Enchiladas: 5 Comforting Seconds Await

By:

Christina R. Jones

September 20, 2025

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Oh boy, let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight delight: bean and chicken enchiladas! These beauties are not just delicious; they’re a warm hug on a plate. Picture this: tender shredded chicken, hearty black beans, and sweet corn all wrapped up in soft flour tortillas, drenched in zesty enchilada sauce, and topped with bubbling cheese. Yum! What I love about this recipe is its simplicity. You can whip it up in no time, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken! Trust me, once you try these enchiladas, they’ll become a staple in your home just like they are in mine. Let’s get cooking!

bean and chicken enchiladas - detail 1

Ingredients for Bean and Chicken Enchiladas

2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn (frozen or fresh)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend works great)
1 jar enchilada sauce (about 15 ounces)
8 flour tortillas (you can substitute with corn tortillas for a gluten-free option)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Prepare Bean and Chicken Enchiladas

Now, let’s dive into the fun part—making these delicious bean and chicken enchiladas! I promise, it’s easier than you might think, and the results are sooo worth it. Here’s how to get everything prepped and baked to perfection.

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because you want your enchiladas to bake evenly and come out deliciously bubbly.
While the oven warms up, grab a large mixing bowl. Combine the cooked shredded chicken, black beans, corn, half of the shredded cheese, cumin, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix it all together until everything is well-coated. It’s okay if it gets a bit messy—just think of it as part of the fun!
Next, take a flour tortilla and spoon a generous amount of the filling mixture onto it. Roll it up tightly and place it seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Repeat this for all tortillas until the dish is full. You’ll want to pack them in snugly, but not too tight!
Now, pour the enchilada sauce over the top of the rolled tortillas. Make sure to cover them well; this is where the flavor really comes from! Then, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the sauce for that gooey, melty top we all love.
Pop the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the cheese is melted and bubbling, making your kitchen smell absolutely heavenly. Just be sure to keep an eye on them towards the end!

And there you have it! Just like that, you’ve got a pan full of mouthwatering bean and chicken enchiladas ready to be devoured. Can’t wait for you to try them!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a hearty meal ready to go in no time. Perfect for those busy weeknights!
Delicious Flavor: The combination of tender chicken, savory black beans, and zesty enchilada sauce creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the beans and corn, these enchiladas are not just tasty but also nutritious!
Versatile: You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite veggies or swapping out ingredients to suit your dietary needs.
Family-Friendly: These enchiladas are a hit with kids and adults alike, making dinner a stress-free experience for everyone at the table.

Tips for Success

Now that you’re ready to whip up some delicious bean and chicken enchiladas, here are my go-to tips to ensure they turn out perfect every single time! Trust me, these little tricks can make all the difference.

Use Fresh Ingredients

Whenever possible, opt for fresh ingredients. Fresh corn instead of canned, for instance, can really elevate the flavor and texture. If you have access to it, use rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful option. It saves time and packs in that rich taste without any fuss!

Don’t Skimp on Seasoning

Seasoning is key! Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper; they really enhance the flavors of the chicken and beans. Feel free to add a sprinkle of garlic powder or onion powder to the filling for an extra flavor boost. And if you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some chopped jalapeños for a kick!

Mix Up the Tortillas

If you want a twist, try using corn tortillas instead of flour. They add a lovely texture and are gluten-free! Just be sure to warm them up slightly before rolling to prevent cracking. You can even lightly fry them in a little oil for added flavor and durability!

Layering for Flavor

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some of the enchilada sauce to the bottom of the baking dish before placing the rolled tortillas. It prevents sticking and gives the bottom a delicious saucy base. Trust me; it’s worth that extra step!

Top It Off

If you love that cheesy goodness, don’t hesitate to add a bit more cheese on top! You can also mix in some crumbled queso fresco or feta just before serving for a delightful contrast to the melty cheese. It’s a fun way to add a little something special!

Let It Rest

After baking, let the enchiladas sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows everything to settle and makes for easier slicing. Plus, it helps the flavors meld together beautifully! You’ll thank me later.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create some irresistible bean and chicken enchiladas that will impress family and friends alike. Happy cooking!

Variations of Bean and Chicken Enchiladas

One of the best things about bean and chicken enchiladas is how adaptable they are! You can get creative and switch things up to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

Swap the Protein

If you’re feeling like a change, try using shredded beef or pork instead of chicken. You can also go completely vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding extra beans or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty filling. Tofu works great too if you’re looking for a plant-based option!

Add More Veggies

Don’t be afraid to sneak in more veggies! Chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can mix beautifully with the chicken and beans. Just sauté them lightly before adding them to the filling to enhance their flavor. You’d be amazed at how much nutrition and color they bring to the dish!

Change Up the Cheese

Experiment with different types of cheese to find your perfect blend! While cheddar is classic, pepper jack adds a lovely spice, and crumbled queso fresco gives a nice creamy touch. You can even mix a couple of cheeses for a flavor explosion!

Try Different Sauces

Instead of traditional enchilada sauce, give a green enchilada sauce a shot for a tangy twist! Homemade salsa verde works wonders, or you can even use a creamy sauce if you’re in the mood for something richer. Just remember to balance the flavors with the fillings!

Make It a Breakfast Enchilada

How about breakfast enchiladas? Swap the chicken for scrambled eggs and add in breakfast sausage or bacon for a hearty morning treat. Top them with avocado and a sprinkle of cilantro for a fresh finish!

These variations are just the tip of the iceberg! Get creative and make this bean and chicken enchiladas recipe your own. Trust me, every twist will lead to a new favorite dish in your home. Enjoy the journey in the kitchen!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made a delicious batch of bean and chicken enchiladas, and now you have some leftovers (if you’re lucky enough!). Storing them properly is key to keeping that mouthwatering flavor intact. Here’s how to do it right!

First off, let the enchiladas cool to room temperature before storing them. This prevents condensation from forming in the container, which can make them soggy. I like to use an airtight container for storage. You can either keep them whole or cut them into individual portions—whatever works best for you!

If you plan to eat them within a few days, just pop them in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. But if you want to keep them longer, I highly recommend freezing them. Just wrap each enchilada tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They should last up to 3 months in the freezer, making for a perfect quick meal later on!

When you’re ready to enjoy your enchiladas again, reheating is super easy. If they’re frozen, let them thaw overnight in the fridge. For reheating, I usually prefer the oven because it keeps everything nice and crispy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the enchiladas in a baking dish, and cover with a bit of foil to keep them from drying out. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until they’re heated through and the cheese is melty again.

If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Just place your enchilada on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel (this keeps it from drying out), and heat for about 1-2 minutes, or until warmed to your liking. Just be careful; they can get hot quickly!

With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll always have a tasty meal ready to go, ensuring that your bean and chicken enchiladas are just as delicious as when they first came out of the oven. Enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Before diving into the deliciousness of these bean and chicken enchiladas, I want to share a little note about the nutritional information. Keep in mind that nutrition values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so this is just a general guide.

Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values for one enchilada:

Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 22g

With these values in mind, you can enjoy your enchiladas knowing they’re not just tasty but also packed with protein and fiber! Happy cooking and eating!

Common Questions About Bean and Chicken Enchiladas

As you embark on your journey to make these scrumptious bean and chicken enchiladas, you might have a few questions popping up. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I hear, along with my trusty answers to guide you along the way.

Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the enchiladas up to the point of baking, then cover them tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven as directed. If they’re straight from the fridge, they might need a few extra minutes to heat through.

What’s the best way to store leftover enchiladas?

To keep your leftover enchiladas fresh, let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should stay good for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, wrap each enchilada in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to three months. Just remember to thaw them overnight before reheating!

Can I use different beans in this recipe?

Of course! While black beans are a classic choice, you can definitely mix it up. Pinto beans, kidney beans, or even white beans work wonderfully. Just make sure they’re rinsed and drained if they’re canned. Each type of bean will bring its own unique flavor and texture to your enchiladas!

How can I make these enchiladas spicier?

If you like a bit of heat, there are a few ways to spice things up! You can add some chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers to the filling for a kick. Alternatively, try using a spicier enchilada sauce or sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking. Adjust to your taste, and enjoy the fiery goodness!

Is there a way to make these enchiladas vegetarian?

Definitely! Just omit the chicken and load up on the beans and veggies instead. You can add sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or even some corn for extra flavor and nutrition. Tofu or tempeh can also be great protein options if you want to keep it hearty. The enchiladas will still be delicious and satisfying!

With these answers, I hope you feel more confident diving into your bean and chicken enchiladas adventure. Remember, the kitchen is all about experimenting and having fun. Happy cooking!