Baked Chicken Enchiladas With Cheesy Sauce

why make this recipe

Baked Chicken Enchiladas With Cheesy Sauce is a comforting dish that brings joy to any meal. This recipe combines tender chicken and a creamy, cheesy sauce, making it irresistible for both kids and adults. It’s a quick and easy way to use leftover chicken, and you can customize the fillings to your liking. Plus, it’s a complete meal in one pan, saving you both time and cleanup.

how to make Baked Chicken Enchiladas With Cheesy Sauce

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great for convenience)
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups whole milk (room temperature)
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
8-10 flour tortillas (8-inch size)
Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, black beans, corn, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute.
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted. Add smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon about ⅓ cup of the chicken filling down the center, then roll it up tightly.
Place each rolled enchilada seam side down in the prepared baking dish, arranging them snugly side-by-side. Repeat with all tortillas and filling.
Pour the cheesy sauce evenly over the enchiladas, coating each one.
Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and slightly golden on top. Optionally broil for the last 2 minutes for extra crust.
Let the enchiladas rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro and sliced green onions.

how to serve Baked Chicken Enchiladas With Cheesy Sauce

Serve these enchiladas warm, directly from the oven. They pair well with a side of Mexican rice or a simple salad. Add some fresh toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or sour cream for added flavor. Enjoying a slice of lime on the side can also elevate the taste of this dish.

how to store Baked Chicken Enchiladas With Cheesy Sauce

Store any leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave them in individual portions until hot. If you need to store them longer, consider freezing before baking for up to 3 months. Just thaw them overnight in the fridge and bake as instructed.

tips to make Baked Chicken Enchiladas With Cheesy Sauce

Feel free to swap the chicken for turkey, beef, or even make a vegetarian version by using only beans and vegetables.
To spice things up, add chopped green chilies or a splash of hot sauce to the filling.
Use different types of cheese based on your preference; pepper jack cheese will add a nice kick.

variation

You can make these enchiladas even more delicious by adding sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling. For a healthier option, consider using whole wheat tortillas instead of regular flour tortillas.

FAQs

Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, leftover turkey is a great substitute and will taste delicious in this recipe.
Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them up to the baking step, cover them, and refrigerate overnight. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve with chicken enchiladas?
You can serve them with rice, beans, or a fresh salad. Sour cream and guacamole are also great additions!