The Savoury Recipe

Chicken enchilada is a beloved dish that brings comfort and flavour to any table. Originating from Mexico, enchiladas are tortillas rolled around a filling and topped with a rich sauce. Their versatility is what makes them a staple in many households. You can fill them with various ingredients, making them appealing whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet dinner at home. In this recipe, you’ll discover how to create delicious chicken enchiladas with a mouth-watering sauce that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients for Chicken Enchiladas

Creating the perfect chicken enchiladas starts with gathering the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Enchiladas

2 cups shredded cooked chicken
8 corn or flour tortillas
1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
1 cup diced onion
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

For the Sauce

You can either make your own enchilada sauce or use a store-bought version. Here’s what to use if you want to make it from scratch:

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons chili powder
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt to taste

Preparation Steps

Follow these simple steps to prepare your chicken enchiladas. It’s easier than you might think!

Cooking the Chicken

Start by cooking your chicken. If you don’t have any cooked chicken, you can boil or bake chicken breasts until fully cooked, then shred them. Season the chicken with cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for an extra kick of flavour.

Making the Enchiladas

Once your chicken is ready, it’s time to assemble the enchiladas.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until translucent.
In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans (if using), and half of the cheese. Mix well.
Take a tortilla, fill it with a generous spoonful of the chicken mixture, and roll it up tightly. Place it seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.

Delicious chichen enchilada

Preparing the Enchilada Sauce

To make the sauce:

In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for about a minute.
Stir in the chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Gradually add the tomato sauce and chicken broth, whisking to combine.
Bring the mixture to a simmer and season with salt. Cook until slightly thickened.

Baking the Enchiladas

Pour the enchilada sauce over the filled tortillas in the baking dish, ensuring they are well-covered. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.

Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken enchiladas are delicious on their own, but you can elevate your meal with some tasty sides and toppings.

Toppings

Consider adding some of these toppings for extra flavour:

Sour cream: Soft and creamy, it balances out the spices.
Fresh cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness.
Sliced olives: A nice salty touch.
Diced avocado: Creamy and rich, perfect for enhancement.

Side Dishes

Pair your enchiladas with these sides for a complete meal:

Spanish rice: Fluffy rice with tomatoes and spices.
Refried beans: Creamy, rich beans that complement the dish beautifully.
A fresh salad: Light greens with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a nice contrast.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Enchiladas

Keep these tips in mind while making your chicken enchiladas for the best results.

Choosing the Right Tortillas

The choice of tortilla can impact the texture and flavour of your dish. Corn tortillas are traditional, offering a slightly nutty taste and a firm texture. Flour tortillas, on the other hand, are softer and can hold more filling. Depending on your preference, choose either, but remember that corn tortillas usually work better for baking.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any enchiladas left over, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for about 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Chicken enchiladas are not just a meal; they’re a celebration of flavours wrapped in comfort. With this recipe, you can bring a taste of Mexico to your kitchen. Whether you’re making them for family dinners or for entertaining friends, these enchiladas are sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and share your experience! Enjoy every bite!

Chicken Enchilada