Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

These quick and easy Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas Recipe are cheesy, creamy, and oh-so-delicious. Perfect for family dinners, parties, or casual gatherings, these enchiladas are stuffed with tender chicken, cream cheese, and spicy green chilis. Slathered in flavorful enchilada sauce and topped with melted cheese, they are a standout dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy cheese and zesty green chilis creates a flavor explosion.
• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe serves eight people, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your enchiladas with your favorite toppings like sour cream, salsa, and avocado.
• Comfort Food: The cheesy goodness is perfect for cozy nights in or special occasions.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather the necessary tools to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick cooking spray
• 9 x 13 baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick cooking spray: Prevents the enchiladas from sticking to the baking dish for easy serving.
• 9 x 13 baking dish: The perfect size to hold all your enchiladas while ensuring even cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without mess.

Ingredients

For the Enchiladas

• 18 ounces green enchilada sauce (can substitute red)
• 3 cups rotisserie chicken (or leftover cooked chicken, cubed)
• 8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
• 4 ounces canned green chilis
• 3 cups cheddar cheese (shredded; plus more for the top if desired)
• 8 large flour tortillas

For Toppings

• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup salsa
• 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1 whole avocado (sliced)

How to Make Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Spray a 9 x 13 baking dish lightly with non-stick cooking spray. Spread about 1 cup of enchilada sauce into the bottom of the dish.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a medium-sized bowl, combine:
1. Cubed rotisserie chicken
2. Room temperature cream cheese
3. Canned green chilis
4. Two cups of shredded cheddar cheese
Mix well until thoroughly combined.

Step 4: Fill the Tortillas

Fill each flour tortilla with about half a cup of the chicken mixture. Roll up tightly and place seam side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat this process with all eight tortillas.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top of the rolled tortillas. Sprinkle with the remaining one cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 6: Bake

Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes. The enchiladas should be heated through and the cheese should be golden brown.

Step 7: Serve with Toppings

Top your delicious enchiladas with sour cream, salsa, chopped tomatoes, and sliced avocados if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

These green chili chicken enchiladas are a crowd-pleaser and can be served in a variety of ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or add a fun twist, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Fresh Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the heat.
• Guacamole: Creamy avocado complements the flavors perfectly.
• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro enhances the dish with a burst of flavor.

As a Casserole

• Layered Style: Use the same ingredients in a layered casserole for a different presentation.
• Bake in Advance: Prepare ahead of time and heat just before serving for convenience.

With Sides

• Rice: Serve with cilantro lime rice for a refreshing side.
• Beans: Black beans or refried beans add protein and heartiness to the meal.

For Meal Prep

• Pack for Lunch: These enchiladas reheat well, making them perfect for lunchboxes.
• Freeze Leftovers: Store extras in an airtight container for an easy dinner later.

How to Perfect Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

To achieve the best flavors and textures in your green chili chicken enchiladas, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Cheese Choices: Use sharp cheddar cheese for a stronger flavor that pairs beautifully with the enchiladas.
• Preheat Properly: Make sure your oven is fully preheated to ensure even cooking.
• Add Spice: If you like it hot, consider adding diced jalapeños or extra green chilis to the filling.
• Use Homemade Sauce: If time permits, making your own enchilada sauce can elevate the dish significantly.
• Cover While Baking: Covering the dish with foil during baking helps trap moisture, keeping the enchiladas juicy.

Best Side Dishes for Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your green chili chicken enchiladas can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with cumin and lime makes a classic accompaniment.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy and flavorful beans provide added protein and complement the enchiladas well.
3. Corn Salad: A fresh corn salad adds sweetness and crunch to balance out the richness of the dish.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables grilled with spices offer a healthy, colorful side option.
5. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips paired with zesty salsa make for a great starter or snack alongside your meal.
6. Garden Salad: A light garden salad dressed with vinaigrette can refresh your palate between bites of enchiladas.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Not Using Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Cold cream cheese can create lumps in your filling. Always let it sit out for about 30 minutes before mixing.
• Overfilling the Tortillas: Stuffing tortillas too full can lead to spills and messy enchiladas. Aim for about 1/2 cup of filling per tortilla.
• Skipping the Sauce Layer: Forgetting to place sauce at the bottom of the baking dish can cause sticking. Always spread a layer of sauce first.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Cheaper cheeses may not melt well, affecting both texture and flavor. Opt for good-quality shredded cheddar for the best results.
• Not Baking Long Enough: Undercooking enchiladas can leave them cold in the center. Ensure they bake until heated through and the cheese is golden.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2–3 months.

Reheating Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 20 minutes, then uncover and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water to create steam and cover until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas Recipe that may help you:

Can I use different types of meat?

You can substitute rotisserie chicken with beef, turkey, or lamb based on your preference.

How spicy are these enchiladas?

The level of spiciness depends on the type of green chilis used. You can choose mild or hot varieties based on your taste.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with cooked beans or vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian option.

What toppings go well with these enchiladas?

Sour cream, guacamole, chopped cilantro, and jalapeños are great toppings that enhance flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas Recipe is not only cheesy and creamy but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different proteins or vegetables based on what you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to try this crowd-pleaser at your next gathering!