Green Enchiladas with Chicken {Enchiladas Verdes}

These Green Enchiladas with Chicken {Enchiladas Verdes} are not just a meal; they’re a celebration of flavor! Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even a cozy night in, these enchiladas are creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor. Stuffed with juicy chicken, cream cheese, and fire-roasted green chiles, they are smothered in a delicious homemade Salsa Verde. Whether you use store-bought or make your own sauce, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks.
• Flavorful: The combination of chicken, cream cheese, and green chiles creates a rich and satisfying taste that your family will love.
• Versatile: Tailor the recipe to your preferences by using different types of cheese or adding vegetables like diced peppers or onions.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a large batch ahead of time and freeze for quick meals later on.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These enchiladas are always a hit at parties and gatherings, making them an ideal choice for entertaining.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools for making these delicious enchiladas. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Skillet or frying pan
• Spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 inch baking dish: Essential for holding all the enchiladas together as they bake. Provides even cooking throughout.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining ingredients like chicken, cream cheese, and spices easily and efficiently.
• Skillet or frying pan: Perfect for sautéing any vegetables or warming tortillas before assembly.

Ingredients

These Green Enchiladas are creamy, cheesy & full of flavor! Stuffed with chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheese, and fire roasted green chiles! The green enchilada sauce is made using a batch of homemade tomatillo Salsa Verde (or store-bought), that’s been cooked in just a bit of oil and broth. So easy!

For the Enchiladas

• 8 flour tortillas (8) (warmed)
• 1 lb. cooked chicken (~2 breasts or 2.5 cups chopped/shredded)
• 1 7oz. can mild green chiles (drained)
• 4 oz. cream cheese (room temperature)
• 3-4 cups shredded cheese (of your choice)
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup diced onion (optional add-in)

For the Sauce

• 1 batch homemade Salsa Verde
• 1 cup chicken broth (use only 1/4 cup broth if using store-bought Salsa Verde)
• 2 Tbsp olive oil

How to Make Green Enchiladas with Chicken {Enchiladas Verdes}

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your enchiladas cook evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine the cooked chicken, cream cheese, drained green chiles, shredded cheese, salt, pepper, and optional diced onion.
2. Mix until well blended.

Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas

In your warmed tortillas:
1. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the filling into each tortilla.
2. Roll them tightly and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a skillet:
1. Heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add your homemade Salsa Verde and chicken broth.
3. Stir until combined.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the sauce over the assembled enchiladas:
1. Bake in preheated oven for 25–30 minutes.
2. The top should be bubbly and slightly golden when done.

Enjoy these delicious Green Enchiladas with Chicken {Enchiladas Verdes} as a delightful main course that’s sure to satisfy!

How to Serve Green Enchiladas with Chicken {Enchiladas Verdes}

These Green Enchiladas with Chicken are not just a meal; they are a complete experience! You can serve them in various ways that will enhance their flavor and presentation.

Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and tang.
• Fresh Cilantro: Chopped cilantro gives a fresh, herbal note.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado enhances the richness of the dish.
• Chopped Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes add color and freshness.

Sides

• Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with lime complements enchiladas perfectly.
• Refried Beans: Creamy beans provide extra protein and texture.
• Corn Salad: A refreshing salad balances the richness of the enchiladas.

Presentation Ideas

• Baking Dish: Serve them directly from a colorful baking dish for a rustic look.
• Individual Plates: Plate each enchilada separately for an elegant presentation.

How to Perfect Green Enchiladas with Chicken {Enchiladas Verdes}

To make your Green Enchiladas truly shine, consider these simple tips.

• Choose Quality Chicken: Use freshly cooked chicken for the best flavor.
• Use Homemade Salsa Verde: Making your own salsa gives you complete control over flavor and freshness.
• Warm Tortillas First: Softening tortillas makes rolling easier and prevents tearing.
• Don’t Overfill: Keep fillings moderate to prevent spills while baking.
• Bake Until Golden: Ensure the cheese is bubbly and golden for optimal texture.

Best Side Dishes for Green Enchiladas with Chicken {Enchiladas Verdes}

Pairing side dishes with your Green Enchiladas can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip adds richness and pairs well with the enchiladas.
2. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn topped with mayo, cheese, and spices offers sweet, savory flavors.
3. Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomato salsa provides a zesty contrast to creamy enchiladas.
4. Quick Pickled Red Onions: Tangy onions add brightness and crunch to your plate.
5. Cabbage Slaw: A crunchy slaw gives a fresh balance to rich enchiladas.
6. Black Bean Salad: Protein-packed black beans mixed with corn and peppers create a hearty side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Green Enchiladas with Chicken {Enchiladas Verdes} even more delicious. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Using cold cream cheese: This can lead to lumps in your filling. Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth mixture.

• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting salt and pepper can result in bland enchiladas. Always taste your filling and adjust seasonings before assembly.

• Overfilling tortillas: Stuffing too much filling into each tortilla can cause them to break. Use a moderate amount of filling for easy rolling.

• Not warming tortillas: Cold tortillas are more likely to crack when rolled. Warm them up first to keep them pliable.

• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking the enchiladas for too long can make them dry. Follow the recommended baking time for the best texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Green Enchiladas with Chicken {Enchiladas Verdes} in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Green Enchiladas with Chicken {Enchiladas Verdes}

• Place enchiladas in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in aluminum foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Green Enchiladas with Chicken {Enchiladas Verdes}

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat each enchilada on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, cover, and warm for about 5-7 minutes until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Green Enchiladas with Chicken {Enchiladas Verdes}?

Green Enchiladas with Chicken {Enchiladas Verdes} are a flavorful Mexican dish made with corn or flour tortillas filled with chicken, cheese, and green sauce, typically made from tomatillos.

Can I use store-bought Salsa Verde?

Yes, you can use store-bought Salsa Verde if you’re short on time. Just reduce the chicken broth to 1/4 cup when using it.

How do I customize my Green Enchiladas with Chicken {Enchiladas Verdes}?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or zucchini or swap out cheeses based on your preference!

Are there vegetarian options for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can replace chicken with beans or other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for a vegetarian version of Green Enchiladas.

Final Thoughts

These Green Enchiladas with Chicken {Enchiladas Verdes} are creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor! They’re perfect for family dinners or meal prep. You can customize them easily by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the spice level. So why not give this delicious recipe a try?