Quick Easy Chicken Enchiladas Tasty Family Meal

Are you looking for a quick and easy family meal? Look no further than these Chicken Enchiladas! Packed with flavor and simple to make, this dish will please everyone at the table. In this post, I’ll share all the tips you need to whip up this tasty meal in no time. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!

Ingredients

List of Main Ingredients

For quick and easy chicken enchiladas, gather these main ingredients:

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

– 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained

– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

– 1 cup enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)

– 1 teaspoon cumin

– 1 teaspoon chili powder

– 8 small flour or corn tortillas

– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)

– 1/2 cup diced red onion

– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

– Sour cream (for serving, optional)

These ingredients create a tasty mix that everyone loves.

Optional Ingredients for Customization

You can make your enchiladas your own with these optional ingredients:

– Bell peppers, diced

– Jalapeños, sliced for heat

– Avocado, for creaminess

– Olives, for a briny flavor

– Different cheese types, like pepper jack

Feel free to add or swap items based on your taste.

Suggestions for Fresh vs. Frozen Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients often gives the best flavor. Fresh corn and beans have a crunch that frozen ones lack. However, frozen corn and beans are perfect for convenience and save time. They are just as tasty when cooked. If you’re in a rush, frozen ingredients work great. Just remember to thaw them before mixing!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Oven and Ingredients

First, set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key for cooking the enchiladas just right. While the oven preheats, gather your ingredients. You will need cooked chicken, black beans, corn, enchilada sauce, and spices. Having everything ready makes cooking smooth and easy.

Preparing the Filling

In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, half of the enchilada sauce, cumin, chili powder, and half of the diced red onion. Stir well until all the ingredients blend together. This filling is the heart of your enchiladas, so mix until it looks good.

Assembling the Enchiladas

Grab a tortilla and place a scoop of the chicken filling in the center. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, then place it seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Repeat this step with the rest of the tortillas and filling. It’s fun to see them come together!

Baking Instructions

After placing all enchiladas in the dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over them. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes. The cheese should be bubbly and slightly golden. Once done, let them cool for a few minutes. Top with the remaining diced red onion and chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy your delicious chicken enchiladas!

Tips & Tricks

How to Prevent Soggy Tortillas

To keep your tortillas crisp, warm them first. Heat each tortilla in a dry pan for about 30 seconds. This makes them flexible and less prone to tearing. You can also lightly fry them in oil. This adds flavor and keeps them from getting soggy when you add the filling. Layer them with parchment paper if you stack them.

Best Cheese Options for Enchiladas

Cheese adds creaminess and flavor. I suggest using cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese. Cheddar gives a sharp taste, while Monterey Jack melts well. For a twist, mix cheeses. You can also try pepper jack for some heat. Just choose a good-quality cheese for the best results.

Cooking Ahead for Easier Meal Prep

Meal prep can save time. You can make the filling a day ahead and store it in the fridge. This lets the flavors meld together. When you are ready, just assemble and bake your enchiladas. You can also freeze the filled enchiladas before baking. Just cover them well. When you’re ready to eat, bake them straight from the freezer. Just add a little more time in the oven.

Variations

Vegetarian Enchilada Options

You can easily make vegetarian enchiladas. Simply swap the chicken for veggies. Use black beans, zucchini, or bell peppers. Add more corn for sweetness. You can also use mushrooms for a hearty texture. Replace the chicken with tofu for protein. These changes keep the dish tasty and filling.

Spicy Enchiladas: How to Add Heat

Want to spice things up? Use diced jalapeños in the filling. Add them to the chicken mixture before rolling. You can also mix hot sauce into the enchilada sauce. For extra heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top. Be careful; a little goes a long way. Adjust the spice level to fit your taste.

Alternative Sauces for Uniqueness

Try different sauces to give your enchiladas a twist. Use green enchilada sauce for a tangy flavor. You can also use mole sauce for a rich, complex taste. If you like creaminess, try a white sauce made from sour cream or cheese. Each sauce adds a new layer to your meal. Get creative and find your favorite!

Storage Info

Storing Leftover Enchiladas

After you enjoy your meal, store any leftover enchiladas in an airtight container. Let them cool to room temperature first. This keeps them fresh and tasty for later. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to cover them well to prevent drying out.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, you can use an oven or microwave. If using an oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the enchiladas in a baking dish. Cover with foil to keep them moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. If using a microwave, place one or two enchiladas on a plate. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking often. Add a splash of enchilada sauce to keep them juicy.

Freezing Enchiladas for Future Meals

Freezing enchiladas is a great way to save time. Assemble the enchiladas as usual but do not bake them. Instead, place them in a freezer-safe container. Add a layer of plastic wrap, then foil, to protect against freezer burn. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you want to eat them, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds great flavor. Just shred the chicken and mix it with other ingredients. This makes the recipe even quicker and easier.

What can I substitute for cumin or chili powder?

If you don’t have cumin or chili powder, use paprika or taco seasoning. These spices give a nice taste without changing the dish too much. You can also skip them if you want a milder flavor.

How do I make enchiladas spicy?

To spice up your enchiladas, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling. You can also use spicy enchilada sauce. A pinch of cayenne pepper in the filling adds heat too. Adjust to your taste.

Can I prepare these enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the filling and assemble the enchiladas ahead. Just cover them and keep them in the fridge for a day. Bake them when you’re ready to eat. This makes dinner super easy!

What is the best way to serve chicken enchiladas?

Serve chicken enchiladas warm, topped with fresh cilantro and diced red onion. Add a dollop of sour cream for creaminess. You can also serve them with rice, beans, or a side salad for a full meal.

In this blog post, we covered all you need for making delicious enchiladas. We discussed main and optional ingredients for your dish, along with tips for using fresh or frozen options. You learned step-by-step instructions from prepping the oven to baking. We shared tricks to avoid soggy tortillas and explored various enchilada options. Lastly, we addressed storage and reheating for leftovers. Enjoy personalizing your enchiladas and impress everyone with your cooking skill