Name: Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 cups chicken; 1 oz green chiles; ¼ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp cumin; ¼ tsp onion powder; 3 cups Monterey Jack cheese; 1 cup Cheddar Cheese; 14 corn tortillas; 20 oz mild green enchilada sauce; 1 cup sour cream; salt and pepper; fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes; Cooking spray

A comforting classic with a twist, these green chile chicken enchiladas bring a punch of flavor to your dinner table. Tender chicken and melted cheese come together in warm corn tortillas, all smothered in a delicious mild green enchilada sauce. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a gathering with friends and family.

Photos of Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

Some ingredients you might not commonly have at home include green chiles and mild green enchilada sauce. Make sure to check the Hispanic foods section of your supermarket for these items. Additionally, Monterey Jack cheese and corn tortillas might be in the dairy and bread sections respectively.

Ingredients for Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas

chicken: The protein base for the enchiladas, providing a tender and flavorful filling

green chiles: Adds a mild, tangy heat to the dish, balancing the richness of the cheese and chicken

garlic powder: Infuses the filling with a subtle garlicky flavor

cumin: A spice that adds a warm, earthy taste to the chicken mixture

onion powder: Provides a mellow onion flavor throughout the filling

Monterey Jack cheese: A creamy, melty cheese that pairs well with the spices and chicken

cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, tangy flavor to the cheese mix

corn tortillas: The vessel for the chicken filling, offering a traditional texture

mild green enchilada sauce: A tangy, flavorful sauce that covers the enchiladas and keeps them moist

sour cream: Adds creaminess to the filling and helps balance out the spices

cilantro: Fresh herb garnish that adds a burst of freshness and color

diced tomatoes: Optional garnish for added texture and flavor

cooking spray: Used to coat the baking pan and prevent sticking

One reader, Alina Toler says:

These green chile chicken enchiladas are fantastic! The blend of spices and cheeses creates a deliciously creamy and flavorful dish. The enchilada sauce adds the perfect touch of mild heat. A definite crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and absolutely satisfying.

Alina Toler

Key Techniques for Crafting Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas

How to mix ingredients: Combine the Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses in a medium bowl, and mix the chicken, cheese, green chilies, garlic powder, cumin, onion powder, and salt and pepper in a large bowl. How to warm tortillas: Stack the tortillas on a plate, wrap them with a damp paper towel, and microwave for 1 minute until they are warm and pliable. How to assemble enchiladas: Spread sour cream down the center of each tortilla, add the chicken mixture, roll up the tortilla tightly, and place it seam side down in the pan. How to bake enchiladas: Pour enchilada sauce over the top, sprinkle with remaining cheese, and bake at 375 degrees F for 20 minutes until the cheese is melted.

How To Make Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas

Shredded chicken is mixed with loads of cheese, wrapped in corn tortillas, and doused with rich green chili sauce to make these yummy chicken enchiladas.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4cupschicken,cooked shredded
1ozgreen chiles,can, diced, drained
¼tspgarlic powder
½tspcumin
¼tsponion powder
3cupsmonterey jack cheese,shredded, divided use
1cupcheddar cheese,shredded, divided use
14corn tortillas
20ozmild green enchilada sauce,can
1cupsour cream
Salt and pepper,to taste
fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes,chopped, optional
Cooking spray

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Coat a 9×13-inch pan with cooking spray.
In a medium bowl, mix together the monterey jack and cheddar cheeses.
In a large bowl, mix together the chicken, ½ of the cheese, green chilies, garlic powder, cumin, onion powder and salt and pepper to taste.
Stack the tortillas on a plate and wrap with a damp paper towel. Microwave for 1 minute until tortillas are warm and pliable.
Lay one of the tortillas on a flat surface and spread approximately 2 teaspoons of sour cream down the center of each tortilla. Add approximately ⅓ cup of the chicken mixture, then tightly roll up the tortilla and place it seam side down in the pan.
Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas.
Pour the enchilada sauce over the top of the pan, then top the enchiladas with the remaining cheese.
Bake for 20 minutes or until cheese is melted. Serve, topped with chopped cilantro and tomatoes if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 817.46kcal
Fat: 54.76g
Saturated Fat: 25.81g
Trans Fat: 0.35g
Monounsaturated Fat: 18.37g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.19g
Carbohydrates: 37.33g
Fiber: 5.64g
Sugar: 8.59g
Protein: 44.74g
Cholesterol: 171.11mg
Sodium: 1471.27mg
Calcium: 749.12mg
Potassium: 461.03mg
Iron: 3.03mg
Vitamin A: 310.12µg
Vitamin C: 16.24mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas

To ensure your corn tortillas don't crack when rolling, make sure they are thoroughly warmed. If microwaving doesn't make them pliable enough, you can lightly fry each tortilla in a bit of oil for a few seconds on each side before filling. This adds a bit of flavor and makes them easier to work with.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prepare the filling in advance: Mix the chicken, cheese, and spices the night before to save time on assembly day.

Use pre-cooked chicken: Opt for rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken to cut down on cooking time.

Microwave tortillas together: Stack and microwave all tortillas at once to make them pliable, instead of doing it one by one.

Pre-shredded cheese: Buy pre-shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese to skip the grating step.

Assemble in batches: Lay out multiple tortillas and fill them assembly-line style to speed up the process.

Substitute Ingredients For Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

chicken - Substitute with turkey: Turkey provides a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a suitable alternative for chicken in enchiladas.
green chiles - Substitute with poblano peppers: Poblano peppers offer a mild heat and similar flavor, making them a good replacement for green chiles.
garlic powder - Substitute with fresh garlic: Fresh garlic can provide a more robust and aromatic flavor compared to garlic powder.
cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander has a slightly citrusy flavor that can complement the other spices in the recipe.
onion powder - Substitute with fresh onions: Fresh onions can add a more intense and fresh flavor compared to onion powder.
monterey jack cheese - Substitute with mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella has a similar melting quality and mild flavor, making it a good alternative to Monterey Jack cheese.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with colby cheese: Colby cheese has a similar texture and flavor to cheddar, making it a suitable replacement.
corn tortillas - Substitute with flour tortillas: Flour tortillas can be used if corn tortillas are unavailable, though they will provide a different texture.
mild green enchilada sauce - Substitute with salsa verde: Salsa verde can offer a similar tangy and mildly spicy flavor as green enchilada sauce.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor, making it a healthier alternative to sour cream.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, though it will also add a different taste profile.
pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can provide a similar heat and flavor while being less visually noticeable in the dish.
fresh cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can offer a fresh and slightly peppery flavor, though it lacks the distinctive taste of cilantro.
diced tomatoes - Substitute with canned tomatoes: Canned tomatoes can be used if fresh tomatoes are not available, though they may have a slightly different texture.
cooking spray - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used to grease the baking dish, providing a similar non-stick effect.

Plating and Presentation Ideas

Use a large white plate: The simplicity of a white plate allows the vibrant colors of the green chiles, cheese, and enchilada sauce to stand out, creating a visually appealing contrast.
Create a bed of sauce: Pour a thin layer of the enchilada sauce on the plate before placing the enchiladas. This not only adds flavor but also enhances the presentation.
Slice the enchiladas diagonally: Cut each enchilada into two or three diagonal pieces. This exposes the colorful filling and makes the dish look more refined.
Arrange the enchiladas artfully: Place the sliced enchiladas in a fan shape or slightly overlapping each other. This adds depth and dimension to the presentation.
Top with fresh garnishes: Sprinkle chopped cilantro and diced tomatoes over the enchiladas. The fresh herbs and vegetables add a burst of color and freshness.
Add a dollop of sour cream: Place a small quenelle of sour cream on top of the enchiladas or to the side. This adds a creamy element and enhances the overall presentation.
Drizzle with additional sauce: Lightly drizzle some more enchilada sauce over the top of the enchiladas for added flavor and visual appeal.
Garnish with microgreens: Add a few sprigs of microgreens or edible flowers for an elegant touch. This elevates the dish to a fine dining level.
Serve with a side of lime wedges: Place a few lime wedges on the plate. The acidity from the lime can be squeezed over the enchiladas for a fresh burst of flavor.
Finish with a dusting of spices: Lightly dust the plate with a pinch of cumin or paprika for an extra layer of flavor and a professional touch.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Enchiladas

Oven: Used to bake the enchiladas at 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
9x13-inch pan: The baking dish where the enchiladas will be assembled and baked.
Cooking spray: Used to coat the baking dish to prevent the enchiladas from sticking.
Medium bowl: For mixing the monterey jack and cheddar cheeses together.
Large bowl: For mixing the chicken, half of the cheese, green chiles, garlic powder, cumin, onion powder, and salt and pepper.
Plate: To stack and microwave the tortillas, making them warm and pliable.
Damp paper towel: Used to wrap the tortillas before microwaving.
Microwave: To heat the tortillas so they become pliable.
Flat surface: For laying out the tortillas to spread sour cream and add the chicken mixture.
Measuring spoons: To measure out the garlic powder, cumin, onion powder, and sour cream.
Measuring cups: To measure the monterey jack cheese, cheddar cheese, and enchilada sauce.
Knife: For chopping fresh cilantro and tomatoes for garnish.
Cutting board: To provide a surface for chopping the cilantro and tomatoes.
Spoon: For spreading sour cream on the tortillas and mixing ingredients.
Tongs: Optional, for handling the tortillas if they are too hot to touch after microwaving.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

Let the enchiladas cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the enchiladas to an airtight container. They will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the enchiladas. Wrap the baking dish with plastic wrap and then a layer of aluminum foil, or transfer the enchiladas to a freezer-safe container. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat refrigerated enchiladas, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.
To reheat frozen enchiladas, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Then, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can bake them directly from frozen, but increase the baking time to 45-60 minutes.
For best results, add a little extra enchilada sauce or shredded cheese on top before reheating to keep the enchiladas moist and flavorful.

How To Reheat Leftover Enchiladas

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover enchiladas in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and the edges to crisp up slightly.
If you have a microwave-safe dish, you can reheat individual portions of enchiladas in the microwave. Place a single serving on a plate and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as the tortillas may become rubbery.
For a crispy texture, you can reheat the enchiladas in a skillet on the stovetop. Add a small amount of oil or cooking spray to the pan and heat over medium heat. Place the enchiladas in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until crispy and heated through.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your enchiladas for a crispy texture without the added oil. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the enchiladas in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside.
For a moist and flavorful reheating method, try steaming your enchiladas. Place a steamer basket over a pot of simmering water and arrange the enchiladas in the basket. Cover and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps prevent the tortillas from drying out or becoming rubbery.

Interesting Trivia About Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas

A random fact about this recipe is that green chiles are a staple in Southwestern cuisine and add a mild heat and unique flavor to the enchiladas.

Budget-Friendly Enchilada Making at Home

This green chile chicken enchiladas recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Using common ingredients like chicken, cheese, and corn tortillas, it leverages pantry staples and affordable items. The total cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $20-$25 USD. Considering the flavor and portion size, this recipe offers great value. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Are Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas Healthy?

The green chile chicken enchiladas recipe is a delicious and comforting dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to several factors:

The recipe uses a significant amount of cheese (3 cups of Monterey Jack and 1 cup of cheddar), which is high in saturated fat and calories.
Sour cream is another high-fat ingredient that adds to the overall calorie count.
The recipe does not include any vegetables other than green chiles, which limits the nutritional value of the dish.
Corn tortillas, while gluten-free, are still a refined carbohydrate and may not be the most nutrient-dense choice.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of cheese used or opt for low-fat varieties to decrease the saturated fat and calorie content.
Replace some of the sour cream with plain Greek yogurt, which is lower in fat and higher in protein.
Incorporate more vegetables into the filling, such as sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach, to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the dish.
Use whole grain or sprouted corn tortillas instead of regular corn tortillas to add more fiber and nutrients.
Serve the enchiladas with a side salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the meal and add more vitamins and minerals.

Editor's Take on Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas

This green chile chicken enchiladas recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of monterey jack and cheddar cheeses adds a creamy richness, while the green chiles provide a mild heat that complements the seasoned chicken perfectly. The use of corn tortillas gives an authentic touch, and the enchilada sauce ties everything together beautifully. Topping with fresh cilantro and diced tomatoes adds a refreshing contrast. Overall, it's a well-balanced dish that's sure to please any crowd.

Enhance Your Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mexican Street Corn Salad: Imagine a vibrant corn salad bursting with flavors of lime, cilantro, and a hint of chili powder. This zesty side dish will perfectly complement the rich and cheesy green chile chicken enchiladas.

Black Bean and Mango Salsa: A refreshing salsa that combines the sweetness of mango with the earthiness of black beans. Add a touch of jalapeño for a spicy kick, and you have a side dish that will add a burst of color and flavor to your meal.

Avocado and Tomato Salad: Creamy avocado meets juicy tomatoes in this simple yet delightful salad. Drizzle with a light citrus vinaigrette to enhance the freshness and provide a cool contrast to the warm enchiladas.

Spicy Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes, onions, and a blend of spices. This hearty side dish will soak up the delicious enchilada sauce and add an extra layer of flavor to your plate.

Churros with Chocolate Sauce: End your meal on a sweet note with crispy churros dusted in cinnamon sugar. Dip them in a rich chocolate sauce for a dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Similar Enchilada Variations to Try

Chicken Verde Tacos: Imagine tender chicken bathed in a zesty verde sauce, nestled in warm corn tortillas. Top with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime for a burst of flavor.

Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas: Crispy tortillas filled with a gooey blend of monterey jack and cheddar cheese, combined with seasoned chicken. Serve with a side of sour cream and salsa for dipping.

Chicken Tortilla Soup: A hearty soup brimming with shredded chicken, corn, black beans, and tomatoes, all simmered in a flavorful broth. Garnish with crispy tortilla strips, avocado, and a sprinkle of cheese.

Chicken And Cheese Taquitos: Crispy, rolled tortillas filled with a savory mix of chicken and cheese. Bake until golden and serve with guacamole and sour cream for a delightful crunch.

Chicken Enchilada Casserole: Layers of corn tortillas, shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, and melted cheese come together in this comforting casserole. Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Enchiladas

Appetizers:

Stuffed Jalapeños: Kick off your meal with a burst of flavor by preparing Stuffed Jalapeños. These spicy delights are filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese and cheddar cheese, then wrapped in crispy bacon. The combination of the smoky bacon, the heat from the jalapeños, and the smoothness of the cheese creates a perfect harmony of flavors. Serve them with a side of ranch dressing for dipping, and watch them disappear in no time.

Mini Chicken Tostadas: Delight your guests with Mini Chicken Tostadas, a perfect bite-sized appetizer. Start with crispy tostada shells and layer them with a savory mixture of shredded chicken, refried beans, and guacamole. Top each tostada with a sprinkle of cotija cheese and a drizzle of sour cream. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a slice of jalapeño for an added kick. These mini tostadas are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a hit at any gathering.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich, gooey center of a Chocolate Lava Cake. This decadent treat features a warm, molten chocolate core that oozes out as you cut into it. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of raspberry sauce for an extra layer of flavor. The contrast between the warm cake and the cold ice cream creates a delightful sensory experience. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and a dusting of powdered sugar to elevate the presentation.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Delight your taste buds with a Lemon Meringue Pie. This classic dessert combines a tangy lemon curd filling with a light, fluffy meringue topping. The buttery, flaky crust provides the perfect base for the zesty lemon and sweet meringue. Serve chilled for a refreshing end to your meal. Add a twist by incorporating a hint of lavender into the lemon curd or a sprinkle of toasted coconut on the meringue. A slice of this pie is sure to brighten any occasion.

Why trust this Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas Recipe:

This green chile chicken enchiladas recipe is a surefire hit, combining the perfect blend of spices and cheeses for a mouthwatering experience. The use of monterey jack and cheddar cheese ensures a creamy, melty texture that complements the chicken and green chiles. With easy-to-follow steps and common ingredients, this dish is both accessible and delicious. Trust in the balance of flavors and the simplicity of preparation to deliver a satisfying meal every time.

Share your thoughts on the Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?

Yes, you can definitely use flour tortillas if you prefer. They might give a slightly different texture, but they'll still be delicious.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add some heat, you can use hot green chiles instead of mild ones, or add some diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture. You could also use a spicier enchilada sauce.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the enchiladas and keep them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover the pan with plastic wrap or foil until you're ready to bake.

What can I use as a substitute for sour cream?

If you don't have sour cream, you can use plain Greek yogurt as a substitute. It will give you a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or pop them back in the oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through.