Chicken Cheese Enchiladas

You might not know that chicken cheese enchiladas can be a healthier alternative to traditional versions, especially when using ground chicken breast. These enchiladas are not only easy to make but also allow for a variety of ingredient swaps to suit your taste. If you want to learn how to prepare these tasty dishes, including tips on customization and dietary options, keep exploring the details ahead.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious yet healthier meal, you’ll love these Chicken Cheese Enchiladas. Using ground chicken breast instead of traditional meats cuts down on fat and calories, making this dish lighter. You can reduce cheese by adding more chicken, keeping it tasty while balancing your nutrition. Each serving packs only 197 calories, with 15.2 grams of protein, perfect for various diets like Keto or gluten-free. This recipe is also suitable for various diets like Whole 30 and WW, ensuring that everyone can enjoy it.

The recipe is simple, needing just five main ingredients, and you can whip it up in about an hour. Plus, you can customize it with flavors like garlic or different cheeses. With these enchiladas, you enjoy a satisfying meal without the guilt, making it a win for your health!

History

Enchiladas have a rich history that dates back to ancient Mesoamerican cultures, where the practice of rolling tortillas around various fillings began with the Aztecs. Corn tortillas were essential to their diet, often wrapped around small fish.

The Mayans also contributed to this culinary evolution by immersing empty tortillas in chili sauce. When Spanish conquistadors arrived, they renamed the tortillas and introduced new ingredients, further transforming the dish.

The term “enchilada” comes from the Spanish verb “enchilar,” meaning “to season with chili.” Over time, enchiladas grew more complex, incorporating various meats and cheeses. Enchiladas represent a blend of indigenous and Spanish culinary traditions, showcasing their significance in both Mexican and American food cultures.

Today, they symbolize traditional Mexican cuisine, showcasing regional flavors and adapting to different cultures, especially in the United States.

Recipe

Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked chicken (diced or shredded)
– 1 cup Mexican-blend cheese (shredded)
– 8 corn or flour tortillas
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 cup diced onions
– 1 can (4 oz) chopped green chiles
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– ½ teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
– Sour cream (for serving)

Cooking Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onions until they’re translucent. Add the cooked chicken, green chiles, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until heated through.
In a separate bowl, combine the sautéed chicken mixture with ½ cup of the shredded cheese. Stir until the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the filling.
Take a tortilla and spoon about ¼ cup of the chicken mixture onto the center. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place it seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and chicken mixture.
Once all the enchiladas are assembled in the baking dish, pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the sauce.
Bake the enchiladas uncovered in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish the enchiladas with fresh cilantro and serve with a side of sour cream. Chicken enchiladas are a popular dish for meal prep and freezing, making them a convenient choice for busy families.

For an enhanced flavor experience, consider making your enchilada sauce from scratch using tomatoes, garlic, and spices.

You can also customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of chili powder or adding diced jalapeños.

If you want to prepare ahead, the chicken mixture and sauce can be made in advance, allowing for quicker assembly when you’re ready to bake.

Enjoy your delicious chicken cheese enchiladas!

Final Thoughts

While you may think of enchiladas as just another delicious dish, they actually represent a rich tapestry of history and culture that spans centuries.

Originating with the Aztecs and Mayans, enchiladas have evolved into a beloved staple in Mexican cuisine. Their versatility allows you to customize fillings and sauces to suit your taste. You can choose from various ingredients, like chicken, cheese, or vegetables, and top them with sour cream or fresh cilantro. Notably, this enchilada recipe includes ingredients like cream of chicken soup and salsa, which give it a unique twist.

Enchiladas also showcase the diverse culinary traditions of different regions, from traditional Mexican styles to Tex-Mex adaptations. As you enjoy this dish, remember its deep cultural roots and the joy it brings to people around the world, making it a delightful choice for any meal.

FAQ

Have you ever wondered about the most common questions people have regarding chicken cheese enchiladas?

You can store uncooked enchiladas in the refrigerator for up to a day or freeze them for three months. Leftover baked enchiladas last in the fridge for three to four days, while cooked ones should cool before freezing. To prepare, consider using rotisserie chicken or cooking chicken in a slow cooker with salsa. For tortillas, you can choose from corn, flour, or whole wheat. To enhance the flavor, consider adding additional spices such as chipotle powder or cumin.

Bake the enchiladas uncovered at 350°F for 20 minutes, and warm tortillas in the microwave to make them pliable. Remember, placing rolled tortillas seam-side down helps keep the filling inside.

Enjoy customizing your dish with toppings!