These Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas with Homemade Red Sauce are a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for any family meal or gathering. Filled with shredded chicken, creamy sour cream, and a mix of two delicious cheeses, these enchiladas are smothered in a savory red sauce and baked to perfection. With a little bit of spice and a lot of cheesy goodness, they’re sure to satisfy!
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 can (4 oz) chopped green chilies, drained
- 8 (8 inch) flour tortillas
- 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine shredded chicken, 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce, chopped onion, green bell pepper, 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese, sour cream, and chopped green chilies.
- Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture and roll them up tightly.
- Place the rolled tortillas seam side down in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix together the condensed cream of chicken soup and milk. Pour this mixture over the enchiladas.
- Top the enchiladas with the remaining enchilada sauce.
- Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- After 30 minutes, sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the enchiladas and return them to the oven for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or extra chili powder to the chicken mixture for some added heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with a mixture of black beans, corn, and diced bell peppers for a meatless version.
- Cheese Blend: Try using a blend of cheeses such as queso fresco, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for different flavor profiles.
- Corn Tortillas: Swap out the flour tortillas for corn tortillas for a more traditional taste.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Leftover enchiladas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: These enchiladas freeze well. Wrap them tightly in foil and plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If frozen, allow them to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
10 FAQs
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of shredded cooked chicken? Yes, you can cook chicken breasts and shred them, or use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Just bake them when you’re ready to eat.
- What if I don’t have sour cream? Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream in this recipe, providing a creamy texture with a slightly tangy flavor.
- Can I use homemade enchilada sauce? Absolutely! Homemade red enchilada sauce will enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, simply use gluten-free tortillas, and the recipe will be suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- How can I make these enchiladas spicier? You can add extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or fresh jalapeños to the chicken mixture for added spice.
- Can I use a different kind of cheese? Yes, you can substitute the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses with any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella or pepper jack.
- What side dishes go well with enchiladas? Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh guacamole salad would complement these enchiladas nicely.
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but if using frozen chicken, ensure it’s fully thawed and cooked before shredding.
- Is this recipe spicy? The recipe is mildly spicy, but you can adjust the heat level by adding more or less chili powder, or by adding or omitting the green chilies.
Conclusion
Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas with Homemade Red Sauce are a delicious, comforting meal that’s perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering. With tender chicken, melty cheese, and a rich, flavorful sauce, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. The easy preparation and variety of customizable options make it a versatile dish that will please everyone at the table. Enjoy these cheesy, savory enchiladas as a go-to comfort food!