Mexican Green Chile, Chicken, and Cheese Enchiladas 🌯🧀

Introduction

There’s something truly comforting about a plate of enchiladas. Recently, I decided to make Mexican Green Chile, Chicken, and Cheese Enchiladas for my family, and it turned out to be an instant favorite. The combination of tender shredded chicken, flavorful green chile sauce, and gooey cheese wrapped in soft corn tortillas was nothing short of heavenly. My kids loved helping me assemble the enchiladas, and their faces lit up when I pulled them out of the oven, bubbling and golden. It’s a dish that not only satisfies cravings but also brings everyone together around the dinner table. Let me share with you how to create this delightful meal!

Ingredients

For the Enchiladas:

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 8-10 corn tortillas
• 2 cups green chile enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions (optional)
• Olive oil (for frying tortillas)

For the Green Chile Enchilada Sauce (if making homemade):

• 2 cups green chiles (canned or roasted)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Enchilada Sauce (if making homemade):

1. Sauté: In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly browned.
2. Combine Ingredients: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the green chiles, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened.

Prepare the Tortillas:

1. Heat Tortillas: In a skillet, add a little olive oil and heat over medium heat. Briefly fry each tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side until soft and pliable. Drain on paper towels.

Assemble the Enchiladas:

1. Fill Tortillas: Spread a spoonful of green chile sauce on a tortilla, add some shredded chicken, a sprinkle of cheese, and a dollop of sour cream. Roll up the tortilla and place it seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining tortillas.

Bake:

1. Add Sauce and Cheese: Once all enchiladas are in the dish, pour the remaining green chile sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
2. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.

Serve:

1. Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped green onions and serve with extra sour cream or avocado slices if desired.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: Approximately 6
• Calories per Serving: About 450

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

• Garnish Options:
• Chopped green onions
• Slices of avocado
• Extra sour cream
• Fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges for a zesty kick
• Accompaniments:
• Serve with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans.
• A simple green salad with lime vinaigrette pairs well.

Additional Tips

1. Rotisserie Chicken: Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor.
2. Adjust Heat Level: If you like it spicy, opt for hotter green chiles or add diced jalapeños to the filling.
3. Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for an extra kick.
4. Homemade Sauce: Making the enchilada sauce from scratch enhances the flavor, but store-bought works perfectly too!
5. Tortilla Warmth: Warm the tortillas before filling them to prevent them from cracking.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Enchiladas: Substitute the chicken with black beans or sautéed vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
• Cheesy Enchiladas: Add more cheese into the filling or use a cheese blend for different flavors.
• Green Sauce Variation: Try using tomatillo sauce for a tangy twist on the traditional green chile sauce.
• Freezer-Friendly: Assemble the enchiladas and freeze before baking for a quick meal later.
• Taco-Inspired: Use taco seasoning in the chicken mixture for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Game Day Delight: These enchiladas make for a perfect game-day snack or main dish, especially with a side of guacamole.
• Family Dinner: Great for family gatherings; double the recipe for a larger crowd.
• Meal Prep: Perfect for meal prep; just reheat for a quick lunch or dinner.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, assemble the enchiladas without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding about 10 minutes to the cooking time.
• Reheating: To reheat, cover with foil in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?

• Yes, but corn tortillas are traditional and add great flavor.

1. How spicy are these enchiladas?

• The heat level depends on the type of green chiles used; choose mild for less heat.

1. Can I make these ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare and assemble them a day in advance and bake them when ready.

1. Is there a gluten-free option?

• Yes, use gluten-free tortillas and check your sauce for gluten-free ingredients.

1. What can I use instead of chicken?

• Ground turkey, beef, or beans can be great substitutes for the chicken.

1. How long do leftovers last?

• Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

1. Can I bake these enchiladas in a slow cooker?

• Yes, layer the enchiladas in the slow cooker and cook on low for about 3 hours.

1. What toppings do you recommend?

• Fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime make excellent toppings.

1. Can I use homemade tortillas?

• Absolutely! Homemade tortillas will give your enchiladas a fresh taste.

1. What sides pair well with enchiladas?
   • Mexican rice, beans, or a light salad are great choices.

Conclusion

Mexican Green Chile, Chicken, and Cheese Enchiladas are a delicious way to bring a taste of Mexico to your kitchen. This dish combines the flavors of tender chicken, spicy green chiles, and gooey cheese wrapped in soft tortillas for a comforting meal that the whole family will love. Whether you make the sauce from scratch or use a store-bought version, these enchiladas are sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, invite your family to help assemble, and enjoy a delightful dinner that will have everyone coming back for seconds! 🌮🧀

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