From Scratch to Sizzle: The Ultimate Chicken Enchiladas Mexican Guide
If you’re craving a dish that combines the vibrant flavours of Mexico with the comforting warmth of home-cooked goodness, this one’s for you. Today, we’re diving into chicken enchiladas. Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned chef, this recipe will help you create Mexican chicken for enchiladas that are nothing short of spectacular. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat the oven, and let’s get cooking!
The foundation of any great chicken enchilada is, unsurprisingly, the chicken. For the best results, you want to use tender, juicy chicken that’s been perfectly seasoned. Here’s how to prepare the chicken for chicken enchiladas:
INGREDIENTS
For the chicken
→ FreshToHome antibiotic residue-free chicken breasts: 3 cups, cooked and shredded
→ Ground cumin: 1 tsp
→ Chilli powder: 1 tsp
→ Garlic powder: ½ tsp
→ Salt to taste
→ Pepper to taste
For the enchilada
→ Small corn tortillas: 12 nos
→ Enchilada sauce: 2 cups
→ Cheddar, Monterey Jack or Mexican brand cheese: 2 cups, shredded
→ Sour cream: 1 cup
→ Onions: 1 cup, chopped
→ Fresh cilantro: ½ cup, chopped
→ Black beans: 1 cup, drained and rinsed
→ Corn kernels: 1 cup
→ Black olives: ½ cup, sliced
STEP 1
FIRE UP THE FLAVOR → Season with spice:
In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken with cumin, chilli powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated with the spices. Keep the seasoned chicken aside while you prepare the other enchilada ingredients.
STEP 2
MIX IT UP → Prep for a flavour fiesta:
In a large bowl, combine the seasoned chicken, chopped onions, black beans, corn, and half of the shredded cheese. This mixture will be a delicious filling for your chicken enchiladas.
STEP 3
PACK IT IN → Fill and spoon:
To make the corn tortillas pliable, briefly heat them on a dry skillet or in the microwave. This prevents them from cracking when you roll them. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling mixture onto each tortilla. Roll them up tightly and place them seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
STEP 4
GET SAUCY → Infuse with flavour:
Pour the enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, making sure they are well covered. This is where the magic happens—the sauce will soak into the tortillas, infusing them with incredible flavour.
STEP 5
CHEESE, PLEASE! → Sprinkle delight:
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top of the enchiladas. If you’re a cheese lover (and who isn’t?), feel free to add a little extra.
STEP 6
TURN UP THE HEAT→ Make it a flavour party:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the tortillas are slightly crispy.
STEP 7
DRESS TO IMPRESS → Garnish and serve:
Once your chicken enchiladas Mexican are perfectly baked, it’s time to serve them up! Garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream for that extra creamy touch. Serve them with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete meal.
Crispy Chicken Pakora Tips and Reminders
- Make Ahead:
You can prepare the enchiladas up to a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake when you’re ready to eat. - Spice Level:
Adjust the amount of chilli powder based on your heat tolerance. Add some chopped jalapeños to the filling for an extra kick. - Sauce Choice:
Use green enchilada sauce for a tangier flavour, or mix red and green sauces for a “Christmas” enchilada.
And there you have it – an easy, fun chicken enchiladas recipe that’s sure to become a family favourite. This dish is all about celebrating the rich, vibrant flavours of Mexican cuisine. From the perfectly seasoned chicken to the gooey melted cheese, every bite is a fiesta of flavours. Gather your enchilada ingredients and get ready to impress your friends and family.
So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to bake enchiladas and bring a touch of Mexican magic to your dinner table. Happy cooking, and may your chicken enchiladas be as delightful as your culinary journey!