Speedy Weeknight Chicken Enchiladas

Need an easy chicken enchilada recipe for a busy weeknight? My Speedy Weeknight Chicken Enchiladas are cheesy, delicious, and on the table in 45! Get the recipe now!

Alright, let's dive into the world of easy chicken enchilada recipe ! ever find yourself craving proper comfort food, but dreading the thought of spending hours in the kitchen? yeah, me too! these enchiladas are the answer.

They're packed with flavour and seriously easy to make.

What Makes This The Best Ever Chicken Enchiladas ?

Honestly, it's all about simplicity and taste. this ain't your fancy restaurant fare, this is basic chicken enchiladas done right .

Think tender chicken, a lovely tangy sauce, and gooey cheese, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

I tell ya, they're brilliant!

Enchilada Origins: Not Exactly "Anglo"

Enchiladas, originating from mexico, have a rich cultural history. they have evolved over centuries with regional variations like the enchiladas potosinas .

While these aren't strictly that style, they are inspired by the vibrant flavours and traditions of mexican cuisine adapted for the busy home cook.

These best homemade chicken enchiladas are ready in under an hour and feeds about 3 to 4 people.

Health Benefits? Sort Of...

Okay, maybe "health food" isn't the first thing that springs to mind. but these enchiladas are a good source of protein from the chicken, plus you get some veggies in there too! and honestly, a little bit of comfort food does wonders for the soul.

You know, i remember trying my first ever enchiladas at a little mexican place down the road from my uni.

Absolute game-changer! these ones are my attempt to recapture that magic. if you are asking which chicken enchiladas you should make, look no further!

From Our Kitchen to Yours

We are going to walk you through how to prepare some of the best chicken enchilada recipe , step-by-step. these easy enchiladas are made without excessive spice to keep even the pickiest eaters happy! these chicken enchiladas not spicy are very easy to create by just leaving out some of the chilli powder and using mild chilies.

Next, we're diving into the ingredients! get ready!

Okay, mate! let's get down to the nitty-gritty of what you'll need for these easy chicken enchilada recipe . trust me, it's easier than making a cuppa.

No need to panic! we're making best ever chicken enchiladas , alright?

Ingredients & Equipment: Your Arsenal

Main Ingredients: The Stars of the Show

Right, let's talk grub. This is what makes Best Homemade Chicken Enchiladas actually happen.

• Shredded Chicken: 2 cups (480ml) , cooked. Rotisserie chicken from Tesco is a lifesaver, honestly. If using raw chicken, make sure its internal temperature reaches 165° F ( 74° C) before shredding. A slow cooker will become your best mate.
• Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies: One 10 ounce (283g) tin, undrained. Adds a zing.
• Diced Green Chilies: One 4 ounce (113g) tin, undrained. For extra kick.
• Chopped Onion: ½ cup (120ml) , roughly half a medium onion. Red or white, whatever's in the fridge, no worries.
• Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon (5ml) . The foundation of the flavor.
• Cumin: ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) . Adds warmth.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: ¼ teaspoon (1.25ml) each. Boosts the savory notes.
• Corn Tortillas: 6 (6-inch). Flour tortillas work too, but corn's the traditional choice for these Basic Chicken Enchiladas .
• Red Enchilada Sauce: 2 cups (480ml) . Jarred or homemade. This is Which Chicken Enchiladas that you decide!
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups (226g) . Or a Mexican blend, go wild.

Seasoning Notes: Bang for Your Buck

These little additions will elevate your easy chicken enchilada recipe from "meh" to "bloody brilliant!". You know?

• Spice It Up : A pinch of cayenne pepper for some real heat.
• Aromatic Boosters : A handful of fresh cilantro or coriander at the end brightens everything up.
• Smoked Paprika : Sub for some of the chili powder for a smoky depth.
• Enchiladas Potosinas ? Instead of red sauce, try a rich tomato and guajillo pepper sauce
• Quick Subs : Out of cumin? Use smoked paprika for a similar vibe. Garlic powder gone? A clove of minced garlic will do the trick.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

You don't need a fancy kitchen for this Best Chicken Enchilada Recipe . Just the basics.

• 9x13 Inch Baking Dish : To bake those beauties.
• Large Mixing Bowl : For combining the filling.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons : Obvs.
• Spoon or Spatula : For stirring and scooping.
• Cheese Grater : If using a block of cheese. Pre-shredded is fine too. It's your Easy Enchiladas , after all.
• Oven Mitts : Don't burn yourself, duh!

Honestly, that's it! you're now armed and ready to tackle this easy chicken enchilada recipe . just remember, cooking should be fun! so put on some tunes, maybe pour yourself a cheeky gin and tonic, and get stuck in.

You got this, mate!

Right then, let's chat about my speedy weeknight chicken enchiladas. this easy chicken enchilada recipe is a game-changer, honestly. picture this: it's a tuesday, you're knackered from work, and the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen.

That's where these little beauties come in. you can practically knock them out blindfolded.

Speedy Weeknight Chicken Enchiladas: Your New Best Mate

These aren't your fancy-pants restaurant enchiladas. nope. these are the best homemade chicken enchiladas for when you need comfort food fast.

We are talking about real comfort food, alright? and the best part? you can totally adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

So don't you worry, you will have some chicken enchiladas not spicy if you want to.

Prep Like a Pro: The Mise en Place Lowdown

First, get your ducks in a row. that means chopping your onion and shredding your cheese. it's essential mise en place.

Grab that pre-cooked chicken – rotisserie chicken is the absolute best ever chicken enchiladas shortcut. honestly, it's like cheating, but in a good way! get everything measured out, and bob's your uncle, you're ready to roll.

The Enchilada Assembly Line: Step by Glorious Step

1. Preheat to 375° F ( 190° C). Get that oven nice and toasty.
2. Mix it up: Chicken, tomatoes, chilies, onion, spices. That's your flavour bomb right there.
3. Warm those tortillas! 30 seconds in the microwave, job done. Makes 'em nice and bendy.
4. Spoon & Roll: A bit of filling in each tortilla, roll 'em up tight, and seam-down into the dish.
5. Sauce & Cheese: Drench 'em in sauce, and pile on the cheese. Go wild. You deserve it.
6. Bake for 20- 25 minutes. Until bubbly and golden brown. That cheese is everything.
7. Cool slightly, serve & enjoy! You've earned it.

Pro Tips for Enchilada Excellence

• Don't overfill! Seriously, you'll end up with a cheesy, saucy mess. Not the end of the world, but avoidable.
• Cheese is everything. Get a good quality cheddar. It makes all the difference.
• Make-ahead option: Assemble the enchiladas in the morning and keep in the fridge for up to 8 hours . Dinner is then just a short bake away!

Honestly, this easy chicken enchilada recipe is practically foolproof. so whether you're after the best chicken enchilada recipe or just a quick and satisfying meal, these speedy weeknight chicken enchiladas are a right winner.

Enjoy!

Alright, mate, let's talk shop about these easy chicken enchilada recipe ! i mean, once you get the hang of it, it's so simple.

You'll be whipping up the best ever chicken enchiladas in no time.

Recipe Notes That'll Make You a Kitchen Rockstar

These aren’t just any basic chicken enchiladas , trust me.

Plating Like a Pro & What To Slurp

Right, so presentation, yeah? plating matters. don't just chuck 'em on a plate! think about it: a little sour cream dolloped on top, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, maybe a slice of avocado if you're feeling fancy.

And on the side? mexican rice is a classic, or even a simple salad if you're trying to be healthy-ish.

To drink? ice-cold mexican beer or a zesty margarita will be spot on.

Storage: No One Likes Soggy Enchiladas

Leftovers? i get it. we all make too much sometimes. pop 'em in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days, yeah? freezing isn't my favourite , but you can .

Wrap them individually in cling film, then foil. they'll keep for about a month. reheating? oven's best – keeps 'em crispy.

Microwave works in a pinch.

Variations: Get Creative!

Want to make 'em vegetarian? easy peasy. swap out the chicken for black beans, sweetcorn and some roasted peppers. sorted.

Want a bit more heat? chuck in some jalapeños into the chicken mix. sorted!

Quick Look at the Good Stuff

Alright, let's keep it real. each serving’s got a good whack of protein, which is great. plus, tomatoes have vitamins.

But hey, don’t go thinking this is a salad! it's comfort food, plain and simple, just in the which chicken enchiladas category.

Honestly, making these best homemade chicken enchiladas is easier than ordering a takeaway. give it a go and let me know what you think! even if they're a little bit rubbish the first time.

They're still easy enchiladas to make! practice makes perfect, innit? soon you will be making chicken enchiladas not spicy ones too.

You can even try the enchiladas potosinas !

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this easy chicken enchilada recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the enchiladas completely, cover them tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure they're heated through. Think of it as your very own "Bake Off" - preparing ahead gives you a leg up!

What's the best way to store leftover chicken enchiladas?

Leftover enchiladas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave them individually, or bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Perfect for a cheeky leftover lunch or a quick supper later in the week!

Can I freeze these easy chicken enchiladas?

Yes, you can definitely freeze them! Assemble the enchiladas, but don't bake them. Wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap, then with foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to bake, thaw completely in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed, adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time. This works wonders if you're planning on hosting a larger group.

I'm not a fan of spice. How can I make this easy chicken enchilada recipe milder?

No worries, you can easily adjust the spice level. Use mild enchilada sauce, omit the diced green chilies, and make sure your chili powder is also a mild variety. You can also substitute the diced tomatoes with green chilies with just plain diced tomatoes. A little sour cream on top when serving will cool things down nicely, too, like a spot of milk in a strong cuppa.

My tortillas keep breaking when I try to roll them. What am I doing wrong?

The key is to warm the tortillas before rolling. This makes them more pliable and prevents them from cracking. You can lightly steam them, warm them in a dry skillet, or microwave them briefly wrapped in a damp paper towel. They should be flexible, like a well-behaved yoga instructor!

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas for this easy chicken enchilada recipe?

Absolutely! While corn tortillas are traditional, flour tortillas work just as well and offer a different texture. Keep in mind that flour tortillas tend to be larger, so you might need to adjust the amount of filling you use per enchilada. It's all about finding what tickles your fancy!

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