Creamy Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
These Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas are a deliciously creamy and comforting dish that blends shredded chicken, green chiles, and a rich cheese sauce. The result is a warm, savory plate of enchiladas topped with melty cheese and a flavorful green chile sauce. Perfect for a family meal or any occasion, these enchiladas bring classic Mexican flavors to your table. Follow this recipe to enjoy an indulgent, cheesy meal that will satisfy any craving.
Ingredients
- For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend (or Monterey Jack)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Green Chile Sauce:
- 1 can (15 oz) green enchilada sauce
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- For the Enchiladas:
- 8-10 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1½ cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (for topping)
Making the Filling
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Mixing the Filling Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked, shredded chicken with the diced green chiles, sour cream, cream cheese, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then mix until everything is fully combined and has a creamy texture. The filling should be rich, with the cheese and cream cheese adding smoothness to each bite.
Assembling the Enchiladas
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Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of oil to prevent sticking. -
Warming the Tortillas
Warm the tortillas slightly in a microwave or on a skillet. This will make them more pliable and easier to roll without tearing. Wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds, or warm them individually on a skillet over medium heat. -
Filling and Rolling the Enchiladas
Take each tortilla and spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken filling mixture into the center. Roll the tortillas tightly, and place each one seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Continue this process with all the tortillas until the dish is full.
Preparing the Green Chile Sauce
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Mixing the Sauce Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the green enchilada sauce and sour cream until smooth. If you’d like a fresh flavor boost, stir in the chopped cilantro. The sauce should have a creamy consistency with a slightly tangy flavor from the green chiles.
Baking the Enchiladas
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Pouring the Sauce Over the Enchiladas
Once all the enchiladas are arranged in the baking dish, pour the green chile sauce evenly over the top. Make sure each enchilada is well-coated, as this will help keep them moist during baking and add extra flavor to the dish. -
Topping with Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining 1½ cups of shredded Mexican cheese blend over the enchiladas. Spread the cheese evenly across the top to create a deliciously cheesy layer that will melt and bubble during baking. -
Baking the Enchiladas
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is fully melted and bubbly. The sauce should be slightly thickened, and the edges of the tortillas should be golden brown.
Serving Suggestions and Garnishes
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Garnishing the Enchiladas
Once out of the oven, garnish your enchiladas with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or an extra drizzle of sour cream if desired. These garnishes add a pop of color and freshness to the rich, creamy dish. -
Serving the Enchiladas
Serve the enchiladas hot with classic Mexican side dishes like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple fresh salad to balance out the flavors. Each serving offers a mix of tender chicken, mild green chiles, and creamy cheese, perfect for a comforting, flavorful meal.
Tips for Perfect Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas
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Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience
Rotisserie chicken is a time-saver for this recipe, providing tender, flavorful chicken that’s already cooked and easy to shred. -
Try Different Cheeses
While a Mexican cheese blend is recommended for its meltability, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, cheddar, or even a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for a different flavor profile. -
Warming Tortillas Helps with Rolling
Warming the tortillas helps prevent cracking when rolling them. If you’re using corn tortillas, this step is especially important since they tend to be more delicate. -
Add Extra Spice if Desired
For those who like a little more heat, add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling, or choose a spicier salsa for serving.
FAQs
Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the enchiladas up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let the dish sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes, then bake as directed.
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Absolutely! Both flour and corn tortillas work well in this recipe. Corn tortillas are more traditional, but flour tortillas tend to hold up better with the creamy filling. If using corn, be sure to warm them before rolling.
What can I use if I don’t have green enchilada sauce?
If you can’t find green enchilada sauce, you can substitute with red enchilada sauce or make a homemade green sauce using tomatillos, green chiles, and garlic blended together. This will add a slightly different flavor, but the enchiladas will still be delicious.
How can I make the filling spicier?
Add extra diced green chiles or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for more heat. Alternatively, garnish with fresh jalapeño slices or serve with a spicy salsa on the side.
Can I freeze these enchiladas?
Yes, these enchiladas freeze well. Prepare them up to the baking step, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
Conclusion
These Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas are a comforting, creamy dish that’s loaded with flavor. The combination of tender shredded chicken, melty cheese, and zesty green chile sauce makes these enchiladas a perfect meal for any occasion. Serve them with your favorite Mexican sides and enjoy the cheesy, flavorful delight of homemade enchiladas.