Easy Chicken Enchiladas: 35-Minute Comfort Food Bliss

Name: Easy Chicken Enchiladas: 35-Minute Comfort Food Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup shredded cheese; 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce; 8 corn tortillas; 1/2 cup chopped onions; 1 tablespoon olive oil

By:

Christina R. Jones

July 28, 2025

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Let me tell you, Easy Chicken Enchiladas are a game changer in my kitchen! They’re not just simple to whip up; they’re bursting with flavor and warmth that makes every bite a delight. Picture this: tender, shredded chicken wrapped snugly in soft tortillas, all smothered in a rich enchilada sauce and gooey melted cheese. It’s comfort food at its finest! And the best part? You can have this delicious meal ready in just 35 minutes! Trust me, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend gathering, these enchiladas are sure to impress everyone at your table. They’ve quickly become a family favorite around here!

Easy Chicken Enchiladas - detail 1

Ingredients

To make these scrumptious Easy Chicken Enchiladas, gather the following ingredients:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: I love using rotisserie chicken for convenience; it makes the prep a breeze!
1 cup shredded cheese: Go for a blend of Monterey Jack and Cheddar for that perfect melty goodness.
1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce: Choose your favorite brand – I like the one with a little kick!
8 corn tortillas: These are key for that authentic flavor; don’t skip this part!
1/2 cup chopped onions: Sweet onions work wonderfully; they add a nice depth to the filling.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the onions, it adds a lovely richness.

These simple ingredients come together to create a dish that feels special without all the fuss. Happy cooking!

How to Make Easy Chicken Enchiladas

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making these delicious Easy Chicken Enchiladas! I promise, it’s simple and oh-so-satisfying. Follow along, and you’ll have a delightful meal on the table in no time!

Preparing the Chicken Filling

First things first, let’s get our filling ready. Heat up a skillet over medium heat and add that tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, toss in the chopped onions. Sauté them for about 3-5 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant; trust me, this step adds so much flavor! Now, it’s time to introduce the shredded chicken to the party. Add the chicken and half of the enchilada sauce to the skillet. Stir everything together until it’s well combined, and let it warm through for another 2-3 minutes. You want all those flavors to meld beautifully!

Assembling the Enchiladas

Once your filling is ready, it’s time to assemble those enchiladas! Warm the corn tortillas in the microwave for about 30 seconds – this makes them pliable and easy to roll. Take a tortilla, spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture down the center, and sprinkle a little cheese on top. Now, roll it up tightly, tucking in the sides as you go to keep all that goodness inside. Place the rolled enchilada seam-side down in your baking dish. Repeat this for all tortillas, and don’t worry if you can’t fit them all perfectly; they’ll still taste amazing!

Baking Instructions

Now that your enchiladas are all snug in the dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top, making sure to coat them evenly. Sprinkle on any leftover cheese for that irresistible melty topping! Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the sauce is sizzling around the edges. Pull them out, let them cool for a few minutes, and then serve with your favorite toppings. Enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to Easy Chicken Enchiladas, you’ll be pleased to know they’re not only delicious but also packed with nutrition! Here’s a quick rundown of the estimated nutritional values per enchilada:

Calories: 320
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 600mg
Protein: 18g

Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But overall, these enchiladas offer a satisfying meal that won’t weigh you down!

Tips for Success

To make your Easy Chicken Enchiladas truly shine, I’ve got some pro tips that I swear by! First off, using rotisserie chicken is a total game changer. It saves time and adds incredible flavor without any extra work. Just shred it, and you’re good to go!

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your filling! You can toss in black beans or corn for extra texture and taste. And if you want to kick things up a notch, try adding some diced jalapeños for a little heat! Also, when warming your tortillas, make sure to wrap them in a damp paper towel. This keeps them moist and prevents tearing as you roll them up.

Lastly, don’t skimp on toppings! A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro can elevate your enchiladas to a whole new level. Trust me; these little touches make all the difference!

Variations

There are so many fun ways to mix up your Easy Chicken Enchiladas, and I love experimenting with different flavors! For a twist, try swapping out the chicken for shredded beef or even a hearty veggie filling with black beans and zucchini. You can also experiment with different cheeses; pepper jack adds a nice spicy kick, while queso fresco gives a delightful creaminess.

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not top your enchiladas with a fresh salsa verde instead of the traditional red sauce? And don’t forget about the toppings! Fresh avocado slices, chopped green onions, or a sprinkle of feta cheese can elevate your dish and cater to varied tastes. Enjoy getting creative!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Easy Chicken Enchiladas, you really can’t go wrong with a few tasty sides to complement the meal! I love pairing them with a fresh Mexican street corn salad – the sweetness of the corn balances the savory enchiladas perfectly. A simple green salad with avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lime dressing adds a refreshing touch.

And let’s not forget about a side of refried beans or Spanish rice for that classic Mexican flair! For a little extra kick, serve some pickled jalapeños on the side. These additions not only enhance the meal but also create a fun, festive dining experience that everyone will enjoy!

FAQ about Easy Chicken Enchiladas

Got questions about these delightful Easy Chicken Enchiladas? Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered with some common queries that pop up!

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn? Absolutely! While corn tortillas are traditional and add that authentic flavor, flour tortillas work just as well. Just keep in mind they might be a bit softer and easier to tear.

How do I store leftovers? To keep your enchiladas fresh, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last for about 3-4 days. Just reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving!

What can I substitute for enchilada sauce? If you’re looking for alternatives, try using salsa or homemade tomato sauce with spices for a different flavor profile. It can be just as delicious!

Can I freeze Easy Chicken Enchiladas? Yes! These enchiladas freeze beautifully. Just make sure to wrap them tightly and store them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months.

Now you’re all set to whip up these tasty enchiladas without a hitch! For more delicious recipes, check out my Pinterest page!