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Easy Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas

Close-up of golden-brown chicken enchiladas topped with melted cheese and fresh cilantro.

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A simple and satisfying recipe for classic chicken enchiladas with a cheesy red sauce, perfect for a family-friendly dinner.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup chopped yellow onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 (10 ounce) can red enchilada sauce
  • 8 corn tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the shredded chicken, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring to combine.
  4. Pour in the enchilada sauce and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Warm the corn tortillas slightly to make them pliable. You can do this by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 30 seconds, or by quickly warming them in a dry skillet.
  6. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture into the center of each tortilla. Roll up the tortilla and place it seam-side down in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
  7. Pour any remaining sauce from the skillet over the rolled enchiladas.
  8. Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the enchiladas are heated through.
  10. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

  • For a spicier enchilada, use a hot enchilada sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture.
  • Leftover rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for this recipe.
  • If you prefer flour tortillas, you can use them, but corn tortillas are traditional for enchiladas.
  • Serve with your favorite toppings like sour cream, salsa, or avocado.

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