Green Enchiladas with Chicken

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can top the vibrant, zesty taste of Green Enchiladas with Chicken. These delightful rolls wrapped in soft tortillas bring a burst of flavor, with each bite showcasing a combination of fresh ingredients, creamy textures, and just the right hint of spice. Ideal for any night of the week, this recipe is not just a meal but an invitation to gather and enjoy with loved ones.

Why Make This Recipe

Packed with protein and flavor, these enchiladas transform simple ingredients into a delicious dish.
They boast versatility, allowing for unexpected ingredient swaps to suit your or your guests’ preferences.
An easy option for weeknight dinners, making them perfect for busy schedules yet special enough for entertaining.

Simple Way to Prepare Green Enchiladas with Chicken

Creating these delectable Green Enchiladas at home is an enjoyable experience that allows your kitchen to fill with enticing aromas while keeping the cooking process straightforward. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you achieve enchilada perfection. Gather your ingredients and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure!

Ingredients

To whip up a mouthwatering batch of Green Enchiladas with Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

8 flour tortillas (8") warmed, or 12-16 corn tortillas (see notes)
1 lb. cooked chicken (approximately 2 breast or 2.5 cups chopped/shredded; see blog for recommendations)
1 7oz. can mild green chiles, drained (I used fire-roasted)
4 oz. cream cheese (room temperature; see notes)
3-4 cups shredded cheese of your choice (I used a blend of colby jack & mozzarella)
Salt & pepper to taste (I used 1/2 tsp salt & 1/4 tsp pepper)
1/4 cup diced onion (optional add-in)
1 batch homemade Salsa Verde
1 cup chicken broth (use only 1/4 cup broth if using store-bought Salsa Verde)
2 Tbsp olive oil

Directions

For the Green Enchilada Sauce:

In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the green chiles and cook for an additional minute.
Add the cream cheese to the pan, stirring until melted and combined.
Gradually incorporate the chicken broth, whisking until the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices you desire.
Allow the sauce to simmer on low for 10-15 minutes until slightly thickened.

For the Green Enchiladas:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, 2 cups of the shredded cheese, and half of the prepared green enchilada sauce. Mix until well incorporated.
If desired, add diced onion at this point to enhance flavor further.
Spread a thin layer of the remaining green enchilada sauce at the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Take a warmed tortilla, fill it generously with the chicken mixture, roll it up tightly, and place it seam-side down in the baking dish.
Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling until your baking dish is full.
Pour the rest of the green enchilada sauce evenly over the top of the rolled tortillas, ensuring they are well covered.
Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Once baked, allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Storing Leftover Green Enchiladas with Chicken

To keep your delicious Green Enchiladas fresh for as long as possible, consider the following storage tips:

Refrigerate within 2 hours of baking. Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days at 40°F (4°C).
Freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Ensure they are well covered to prevent freezer burn.
Reheat in the microwave for a couple of minutes or oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Best Ways to Serve Green Enchiladas with Chicken

These enchiladas are versatile and can be served with various sides or toppings to enhance the meal experience:

Garnish with Fresh Ingredients: Top your enchiladas with freshly chopped cilantro, diced avocados, or a squeeze of lime for an extra zing.
Pair with a Simple Salad: A light cucumber and tomato salad dressed with lime vinaigrette complements the spiciness of the enchiladas beautifully.
Serve with Rice and Beans: Offer coconut rice or Mexican black beans on the side to complete the meal and add heartiness.
Add Crème Fraîche: A dollop of crème fraîche or sour cream can cool the heat and adds a touch of creaminess.
Make It a Meal: For those who love variety, consider serving with tortilla chips and guacamole or a side of Mexican street corn.

Tips to Make Green Enchiladas with Chicken

Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when making your Green Enchiladas:

Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for an easy and flavorful filling.
Experiment with Spices: Depending on your preference, you can add spices like cumin, paprika, or chili powder for an extra flavor kick.
Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling.
Homemade vs. Store-bought Salsa Verde: Homemade salsa verde brings rich flavor, but store-bought is a great time-saving option too. Just adjust the chicken broth based on your choice.

Variations or Substitutions

If you’re feeling adventurous or want to tailor the dish to your taste, consider these variations or substitutions for your Green Enchiladas:

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with roasted vegetables, black beans, or mushrooms. This maintains the flavor and can be just as filling.
Different Proteins: Swap chicken for shredded beef, turkey, or even sour cream with BBQ pulled pork for a twist on traditional flavors.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Absolutely! Assemble the enchiladas without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.

What cheese works best for these enchiladas?
Using a blend ensures a creamy texture. Colby jack, Monterey jack, and mozzarella are great options.

Q: How do I make it spicier?
A: You can include diced jalapeños in the chicken mixture or use a spicier variety of salsa verde.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs provide a richer flavor and are incredibly tender, making them an excellent option.

Pro Tips for Perfect Green Enchiladas

If you are short on time, use pre-made salsa verde available in stores. It can save prep time while still being delicious.
For a creamier filling, feel free to add sour cream or Greek yogurt into the chicken mixture.
If you enjoy a crispy topping, switch to broiling the enchiladas for the last few minutes of baking to achieve a nice, golden crust.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While whipping up these Green Enchiladas is relatively straightforward, a few common pitfalls to avoid will ensure your dish turns out perfect every time:

Overfilling the Tortillas: It can be tempting to load up those tortillas, but remember they need to roll neatly! Leave sufficient space for easy rolling.
Not Warming the Tortillas: Warm tortillas are more pliable and easier to roll without tearing. A few seconds in the microwave or a hot pan does wonders!
Foregoing Flavor Balance: Ensure you season well and balance creaminess with tart ingredients for a well-rounded taste!

In conclusion, these Green Enchiladas with Chicken make for an exquisite dinner option that your family will look forward to time and again. Whether it becomes a staple in your weekly menu or a go-to for gatherings, this dish offers a burst of flavor, warmth, and comfort that welcomes everyone around the table. Embrace your creativity, adapt the recipe to your tastes, and most importantly, enjoy every delicious bite!