Chicken Enchiladas: A Flavorful Mexican Classic

Chicken enchiladas are a beloved dish in Mexican cuisine, offering a perfect balance of tender shredded chicken, rich sauce, and melted cheese. This comforting and versatile recipe is ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where bold flavors are the star. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making delicious chicken enchiladas that are sure to impress.

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Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1/2 cup diced onion

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1/2 tsp chili powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup tomato sauce

• 1 tbsp chili powder

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Assembly:

• 8-10 corn or flour tortillas

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)

• Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

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Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.

2. Add flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.

3. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, ensuring no lumps remain.

4. Stir in tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cheese, sour cream, diced onion, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Spread a thin layer of the sauce over the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.

3. Warm tortillas in the microwave or a skillet to make them pliable.

4. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken filling into the center of each tortilla. Roll tightly and place seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.

5. Pour the remaining sauce evenly over the enchiladas, ensuring they are fully covered.

6. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

1. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

3. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot with rice, beans, or a side salad.

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Tips for Success

• Customize the Filling: Add cooked beans, corn, or diced green chiles to the filling for extra flavor and texture.

• Tortilla Choice: Corn tortillas are traditional, but flour tortillas work well if you prefer a softer texture.

• Make Ahead: Assemble the enchiladas up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

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Chicken enchiladas are a crowd-pleasing dish that combines bold flavors with hearty ingredients. Perfect for weeknight meals or festive gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Enjoy!