Delicious Chicken Enchiladas

Name: Delicious Chicken Enchiladas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups Cooked and shredded chicken; 1 can Red enchilada sauce (10 oz); 2 cups Shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 8 pieces Flour tortillas; 1 tablespoon Vegetable oil; 1 small Onion, chopped; 2 cloves Garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Cumin; 1 teaspoon Chili powder; To taste Salt and pepper; Chopped cilantro for garnish; Sour cream for serving

By: Emily parker | Published onFebruary 7, 2026

Plate of delicious chicken enchiladas topped with cheese and sauce

Healthy Recipes

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Delicious Chicken Enchiladas: A Weeknight Wonder

Chicken enchiladas are more than just a meal; they’re a warm embrace on a plate, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Imagine rolling up soft tortillas filled with savory chicken and melting cheese, all slathered in a zesty enchilada sauce. You might find a crowd-pleasing recipe for Chicken Enchiladas so simple yet deeply satisfying that it quickly becomes a family favorite. Plus, with the option of using rotisserie chicken, it’s a time-saver that lets you whip up a delicious dinner in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This recipe for chicken enchiladas is not only comforting but also incredibly user-friendly, making it a fantastic choice for home cooks at any level. The unique combination of flavors and textures—succulent chicken, creamy cheese, and tangy enchilada sauce—offers everyone a little something to love. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner, a family get-together, or an impromptu fiesta, these enchiladas fit the bill perfectly.

“I made these chicken enchiladas for my family, and they devoured them! The flavors were spot-on, and my kids loved helping me roll the tortillas.” – A happy home cook.

Step-by-Step Overview

Making delicious chicken enchiladas is a simple and rewarding process that comes together in just a few steps. You’ll start by preparing your filling—cooked, shredded chicken mixed with savory spices—and then roll it up inside warm flour tortillas. After layering the enchiladas in a baking dish, pour over that delicious enchilada sauce, sprinkle with cheese, and let the oven do the rest of the work. In 30 minutes or so, you’ll be diving into a plateful of gooey, mouthwatering goodness.

Gather These Items

To get started, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 cups Cooked and shredded chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your own.
1 can Red enchilada sauce (10 oz): This adds a zesty kick; choose mild or spicy based on your preference.
2 cups Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and adds creaminess.
8 pieces Flour tortillas: Soft and pliable for easy rolling.
1 tablespoon Vegetable oil: Used for sautéing onions and garlic.
1 small Onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the filling.
2 cloves Garlic, minced: Brings a wonderful aroma and flavor.
1 teaspoon Cumin: Adds warmth and earthiness.
1 teaspoon Chili powder: Gives a nice kick and enhances flavor.
To taste Salt and pepper: Helps balance the flavors.
For garnish: Chopped cilantro, adding a pop of color and freshness.
For serving: Sour cream, which adds creaminess and tang.

Ingredient Notes

Feel free to swap out the Monterey Jack cheese for cheddar or pepper jack for extra heat. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, corn tortillas work beautifully, too!

Directions to Follow

Prepare the Chicken: If you’re cooking your chicken, boil or bake until fully cooked, then shred it using two forks or your hands.
Sauté Vegetables: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add vegetable oil. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they are soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded chicken to the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic. Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for another 3-5 minutes.
Prepare Baking Dish: Pour a small amount of red enchilada sauce into the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking.
Assemble Enchiladas: Take a flour tortilla, place a generous spoonful of the chicken mixture in the center, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and roll tightly. Place seam side down in the baking dish. Repeat until all tortillas are filled.
Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top of the rolled enchiladas and sprinkle with the rest of the shredded cheese.
Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Rest and Garnish: Let the enchiladas rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with sour cream.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serving chicken enchiladas is an opportunity to get creative! Consider garnishing them with additional cilantro or diced avocados for that extra freshness. Pair with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a fulfilling meal. A simple garden salad drizzled with a lime vinaigrette can also add that refreshing contrast!

Storage and Reheating Tips

When it comes to leftovers, your chicken enchiladas can last up to three days in the fridge. Simply store them in an airtight container. For longer storage, consider freezing them before baking—just wrap them well and store them for up to three months. To reheat, bake them at a low temperature until warmed through, or microwave single servings for a quick meal.

Extra Advice

Make it Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce a day ahead, which makes the assembly process even quicker.
Flavor Booster: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices! Consider adding smoked paprika or even a bit of chipotle for a smoky flavor.

Creative Twists

Want to switch things up? Try adding black beans or corn into your filling mix for added texture and nutrition. For a vegetarian variant, substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to make chicken enchiladas?
Overall, this meal can take about 30-40 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Can I use store-bought shredded chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great option for convenience.
What kind of cheese is best?
Monterey Jack is traditional, but you can use cheddar or a blend for extra flavor.
How do I prevent my tortillas from cracking?
Warm them briefly in the microwave or on a skillet before rolling to make them more pliable.
Can I freeze enchiladas?
Yes! Assemble them without baking and freeze for up to three months.
How do I make these enchiladas spicier?
Use a spicier enchilada sauce or even add jalapeños to the filling.
How can I adjust this recipe for a gluten-free diet?
Simply use gluten-free flour tortillas or corn tortillas in place of regular flour tortillas.
What sides pair well with chicken enchiladas?
Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple salad with avocado and lime dressing work beautifully.

This recipe for Delicious Chicken Enchiladas brings the authentic taste of Mexican cuisine right to your table, and once you master it, you’ll find endless opportunities to enjoy a comforting dish that never fails to satisfy!