One chilly evening, I wanted something cozy and comforting. I made shredded chicken enchiladas with cheesy sour cream sauce. The aroma made me think of family dinners.
The spice and creaminess in each bite made me want to share it with my loved ones. This dish is more than a recipe. It’s a tradition that brings everyone together.
These homemade enchiladas are easy to make and delicious. They’re ready in just 40 minutes. Each serving has tender chicken, soft tortillas, and a rich, cheesy sauce.
They’re perfect for impressing friends or a quiet night at home. These chicken enchiladas will become a favorite in your meal planning.
Introduction to Shredded Chicken Enchiladas
Shredded chicken enchiladas are the ultimate comfort food. They mix tender chicken, spicy filling, and tangy sour cream sauce. It’s a hit with the whole family.
This recipe is great for busy nights or family gatherings. It’s not just food; it’s a way to share stories and laughter. The colors and smells make our homes feel cozy and happy.
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
There’s nothing like a dish that brings everyone together. These enchiladas are loved by all. Let’s explore the world of shredded chicken enchiladas and make a delicious dish.
What Makes Cheesy Sour Cream Sauce Special
The creamy sour cream sauce makes cheesy enchiladas extra special. It adds flavor and texture. This sauce also makes the meal richer and creamier.
Ingredients for the Creamy Sour Cream Sauce
To make the perfect sauce, you need a few things. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 3 cups shredded Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup salsa verde
- 1 cup sour cream
This mix makes a sauce that’s just right for cheesy enchiladas. It’s full of flavor and texture.
Health Benefits of Sour Cream
Sour cream is more than just tasty in this recipe. It’s good for you too. It has:
- Probiotics for your gut.
- Calcium for strong bones.
- Vitamins for your health.
Even though sour cream is yummy, eat it in moderation. It’s a tasty way to eat something healthy.
Gathering Your Ingredients for the Perfect Enchiladas
Making the best homemade enchiladas starts with the right ingredients. For my shredded chicken enchiladas with cheesy sour cream sauce, I pick the best parts. This makes every bite taste amazing.
Essential Ingredients for Shredded Chicken Enchiladas
Sticking to the basics is key for great results. For my dish, I use:
- Flour tortillas (12-15 for plenty)
- Shredded chicken (about 4 cups, rotisserie is best)
- Onions (for sweetness and crunch)
- Spices: chili powder, garlic powder, and cumin (for Southwestern taste)
- Red enchilada sauce (10 ounces for flavor)
- Sour cream (1 cup for creaminess)
- Monterey Jack cheese (1 ½ cups for cheese)
- Canned green chiles (4 ounces for heat)
This mix of ingredients creates a great flavor. It makes cooking easy and fun.
Choosing the Right Chicken
The chicken is very important for the dish. Using a rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor. If I don’t have rotisserie, grilled chicken works too.
I avoid chicken with too much seasoning. It can mess up the taste of the enchiladas.
With all the ingredients ready, I’m excited to start cooking. It’s time to make my shredded chicken enchiladas with cheesy sour cream sauce!
How to Make Shredded Chicken Enchiladas with Cheesy Sour Cream Sauce
Making shredded chicken enchiladas with cheesy sour cream sauce is simple. This recipe guides you through each step for a great dish. The mix of flavors makes it warm and comforting, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- In a skillet, sauté onions over medium heat until they’re soft. Add spices like cumin and chili powder for extra taste.
- Mix in 3 cups of shredded chicken and 3/4 cup of chicken broth. Then, stir in 21 oz of cream of chicken soup and 9 oz of canned green chilies for creaminess.
- Add 2 1/4 cups of sour cream and 1/2 cup of shredded cheese to the mix. Stir until it’s all combined.
- Use 8 soft taco tortillas. Fill each with the chicken mix, roll them up, and put them in a greased baking dish.
- Top the enchiladas with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Preparation Time and Cooking Time
This recipe takes just 5 minutes to prepare. The cooking time is about 20-25 minutes. So, you can enjoy these cheesy chicken enchiladas in about 30 minutes. They’re great for quick weeknight dinners.
Tips for Making Perfect Enchiladas Every Time
Making homemade enchiladas is fun. Knowing a few tricks makes it even better. These tips will help you make perfect enchiladas, whether from scratch or improving your recipe.
Choosing the Right Tortillas
The right tortilla is key for perfect enchiladas. I like flour tortillas because they are soft and hold the filling well. Warming them a bit makes them easier to wrap.
Frying them in a little oil adds flavor. This makes the tortillas taste great in your enchiladas.
Spicing Up Your Shredded Chicken Filling
Adding spices to your chicken filling is fun. Cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder add depth. A little chili powder adds warmth.
Roasted green chilies make the filling taste better. Jalapeños add a nice heat. This way, your chicken enchiladas are always special.
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Right Tortillas | Opt for flour tortillas for flexibility and flavor. Warm them before assembly. |
| Frying Time | Fry tortillas for 15-20 seconds to enhance texture. |
| Flavorful Chicken | Add spices like cumin or jalapeños to the chicken for extra kick. |
| Roasted Green Chiles | Incorporate roasted green chilies for a flavor boost. |
Serving Suggestions for Your Enchiladas
Enjoying shredded chicken enchiladas is better with good side dishes and garnishes. A complete meal is tasty and looks great. Here are some ideas to make your enchiladas even better.
Pairing with Side Dishes
Adding tasty side dishes makes your meal better. Try these:
- Mexican rice – a classic that goes well.
- Refried beans – creamy and adds depth.
- Refreshing salad – light and balances the meal.
- Guacamole – creamy avocado that contrasts well.
- Sautéed vegetables – adds crunch and color.
These sides offer balance and let you mix flavors. A well-thought meal is more satisfying.
Garnishing Ideas for Presentation
A pretty plate makes a dish stand out. Here are some garnish ideas:
- Fresh cilantro – adds color and taste.
- Chopped green onions – mild onion taste and color.
- Diced tomatoes – adds freshness.
- Crumbled queso fresco – creamy and tangy.
- Sour cream drizzle – creamy and looks good.
These garnishes make your dish look and taste better. A well-presented meal is perfect for any occasion.
Variations on Traditional Chicken Enchiladas
Trying new enchilada recipes is fun. It’s a great way to make the classic dish even better. You can make vegetarian enchiladas or add jalapeños for a spicy twist.
Vegetarian Options
Vegetarian enchiladas are a tasty choice. They have sautéed veggies like bell peppers and black beans. This makes the dish full of flavor and good for you.
They’re easy to make, too. This makes them a favorite in my kitchen.
Making a Spicy Version with Jalapeños
For those who like it hot, jalapeños are perfect. You can add them to the filling or use pickled ones on top. This makes the dish spicy and fun.
| Variation | Main Ingredients | Preparation Time | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vegetarian Enchiladas | Bell peppers, zucchini, black beans | 5 Minutes | Rich and hearty |
| Spicy Enchiladas | Jalapeños, shredded chicken | 5 Minutes | Spicy and zesty |
Storing and Reheating Leftover Enchiladas
Storing enchiladas right keeps them tasty and fresh. After a big meal of leftover chicken enchiladas, I store them well. They stay good for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the fridge. I cool them first to keep their flavor and quality.
Best Ways to Store Enchiladas
- Let the enchiladas cool to room temperature.
- Put them in an airtight container to keep them moist.
- Write the date on the container so you know when they were stored.
How to Reheat for Optimal Taste
Reheating enchiladas can be fun if you do it right. The best way is to preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake them in a shallow dish for 10-12 minutes to keep the sauce creamy.
If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too. It usually takes 1 to 2 minutes.
Family-Friendly Meal Ideas with Enchiladas
Shredded chicken enchiladas are a big hit in my home. They’re easy to make and everyone loves them. It’s a great choice for family dinners.
Incorporating Enchiladas into Weekly Meal Plans
Adding shredded chicken enchiladas to my meal plans was a smart move. It serves 4 people and takes just 45 minutes to make. This makes it perfect for busy days.
- The dish can be customized with different spices, making it suitable for everyone.
- Using cooked rotisserie chicken simplifies the cooking process, saving time.
- Leftovers can last for 3-4 days in an airtight container, perfect for quick lunches or dinners.
Great for Feeding a Crowd
Shredded chicken enchiladas are perfect for big groups. You can easily make more by doubling or tripling the recipe. They’re always a hit, giving everyone enough to eat.
| Preparation Steps | Time Required |
|---|---|
| Cooking onions and seasonings | 4-5 minutes |
| Heating chicken filling | 2-3 minutes |
| Making the sauce | 3-5 minutes |
| Baking time at 375°F | 15 minutes |
This recipe is not just tasty. It’s also great for family gatherings. Its rich flavors and variety of tastes make it easy to plan meals and entertain.
Authentic Mexican Cuisine Inspiration
Every bite of shredded chicken enchiladas is a taste of Mexico. It’s a mix of bright flavors and traditional ingredients. Adding tomatillos and salsas makes it feel like you’re in Mexico.
Trying these flavors is a fun journey. It leads to amazing meals at home.
Exploring Traditional Mexican Flavors
Understanding Mexico’s unique tastes is key. Ingredients like cumin and cilantro make enchiladas special. I like to add regional touches to make them even more exciting.
Every meal is a chance to enjoy Mexican cuisine’s richness.
Why Enchiladas Are a Family Favorite
Enchiladas have a special place in family hearts. They’re comfort food that makes memories. They’re loved by all, from kids to adults.
They’re perfect for family nights or gatherings. Shredded chicken enchiladas are a favorite for everyone.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Yield | 10 servings per recipe |
| Calories per serving | 481 kcal |
| Total Fat | 20 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9 g |
| Cholesterol | 115 mg |
| Sodium | 710 mg |
| Protein | 40 g |
Feedback and Engagement
Making shredded chicken enchiladas is fun and brings people together. It’s great to talk with others who love to cook. Sharing your thoughts on this dish helps others find new ways to enjoy it.
Encouraging Comments and Sharing Experiences
Be sure to share your cooking journey! Post your enchilada-making on social media. It might inspire others to try this tasty meal.
How to Rate the Recipe and Share on Social Media
These enchiladas have a 4.90 rating from 74 people. Please rate and share your thoughts after trying them. Use Instagram and Facebook to show off your dish. Use hashtags to connect with food lovers.
Conclusion of Your Culinary Journey
Starting to make shredded chicken enchiladas with cheesy sour cream sauce is very rewarding. It’s a meal that makes everyone happy. It’s a chance to share food, joy, and memories.
Using tender chicken, creamy sauces, and melted cheese makes every bite special. It’s a celebration of cooking at home.
While making this dish, I tried new things like different spices. I even made it without meat for my vegetarian friends. This made the dish even more fun.
Leftovers are great because they let me enjoy my cooking again later. This is perfect for when I’m busy.
Let these enchiladas encourage you to try new recipes and improve your cooking. The kitchen is full of creativity and joy. It’s waiting for you to explore, one dish at a time.
