Mary KellyBefore diving into the nitty-gritty of this delightful recipe, let’s explore some perfect accompaniments. Green chicken enchiladas have a robust flavor that can be complemented wonderfully by side dishes. Think about serving them with a fresh garden salad drizzled with lime dressing for that zesty crunch.
A side of Mexican street corn, with its sweet, smoky goodness, pairs beautifully. And don’t forget tortilla chips with guacamole or salsa for that satisfying crunch that everyone loves.
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There’s something magical about food that brings people together. Sharing a meal, especially one bursting with flavor, can create bonds and spark smiles.
One dish that never fails to impress (and feed) a crowd is green chicken enchiladas. Imagine layers of tender chicken, flavorful sauces, and melted cheese wrapped in soft tortillas, all baked to perfection. Yes, please!
As a registered dietitian and passionate home cook, I’ve spent years discovering flavors, honing techniques, and sharing simple, health-conscious recipes. Today, I’m excited to share my take on this classic dish. I’ve made sure that this recipe is engaging, straightforward, and perfect for any occasion.
What are Green Chicken Enchiladas?
Green chicken enchiladas are rolled tortillas filled with chicken and topped with a vibrant green sauce, often made from tomatillos or green chilies. They’re baked in the oven until bubbly and golden, offering layers of flavor in every bite.
Transitioning from traditional red sauces, the green enchilada sauce contributes a zesty freshness that lifts the dish. It’s comforting yet invigorating—just the right combination for any meal.
How Does It Taste?
In one word: sensational! Picture biting into a warm tortilla, the creamy chicken filling cascading over your taste buds, and the tangy green sauce bringing everything together.
The gentle heat from the green chiles is perfectly balanced by the rich creaminess of the sour cream and cheese, while the cilantro adds a refreshing touch. Each bite is a blend of textures and flavors, making these enchiladas feel both satisfying and exciting.
Why You’ll Love This
- Simplicity: This dish is straightforward, even for novice cooks.
- Flavor: It packs a punch, yet it’s not overpowering.
- Versatility: You can customize this recipe to your taste.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep or hosting.
- Health Conscious: It’s well-balanced, satisfying, and can be made with lean ingredients.
Ingredients
For this green chicken enchilada recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
- ½ cup creamy sour cream: Offers richness and balances spice.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or pulled: Provides a hearty protein base.
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves: Brings freshness and brightness.
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced: Infuses savory depth.
- 6 8-inch flour or corn tortillas: The foundation for your enchiladas.
- 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, Oaxaca, or Mexican blend): The melty goodness you can’t resist.
- ¼ cup finely diced red onion: Adds crunch and sharpness.
- 2 cups (16 ounces) zesty green chile enchilada sauce or tangy salsa verde: The star of the dish.
- 1 teaspoon olive oil or avocado oil: For sautéing garlic and onions.
Step by Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. This ensures you have everything ready before you begin cooking. Shred your cooked chicken and finely mince your garlic and onion. Chop the cilantro, as it will be added fresh for some herbaceous flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a medium skillet, heat 1 teaspoon of olive or avocado oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them for about three minutes, keeping an eye on them. You want them to be soft and fragrant but not browned. This step builds a base of flavor that will enhance your enchiladas.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sautéed onion and garlic, sour cream, cumin, and chopped cilantro. This mixture should be well blended but still retain some texture. Give it a taste; you might want to adjust the seasoning here!
Step 4: Prepare the Tortillas
If you’re using flour tortillas, it’s helpful to warm them slightly in the microwave or on the stovetop. This makes them easier to roll. If you’re using corn tortillas, consider warming them in a hot skillet for a few seconds on each side. This prevents them from cracking when you roll them.
Step 5: Fill the Tortillas
Lay out a tortilla on a clean surface. Place about a third of a cup of your filling towards one side. Sprinkle a small amount of cheese on top of the filling. Roll the tortilla snugly around the filling, tucking in the sides as you go. Place the rolled tortilla seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Repeat this process until you’ve filled all the tortillas.
Step 6: Cover with Sauce and Cheese
Once the enchiladas are in the baking dish, pour your green chile enchilada sauce evenly over the top. Make sure all tortillas are generously covered in sauce to keep them moist. Sprinkle with the remaining cheese, letting it blanket the top.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake your enchiladas for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tortillas are heated through. The allure of the cheese melded with the zesty sauce will fill your kitchen with mouth-watering aromas.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, allow the enchiladas a few minutes to cool down. Garnish with additional cilantro and maybe a dollop of sour cream if you’re feeling indulgent. Each serving can be paired with your choice of sides for a complete meal.
Tips on Making Green Chicken Enchiladas
- Use Leftover Chicken: Cooking chicken in advance saves time. Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully too.
- Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses! Try goat cheese for a tangy twist.
- Opt for Homemade Sauce: If you’re feeling adventurous, making your own enchilada sauce can elevate the dish.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like sautéed bell peppers or spinach in the filling for additional nutrition.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or using a spicier green sauce.
Nutrition Information
For each serving of green chicken enchiladas, you can expect approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
This recipe is not only satisfying but fits well into a balanced diet.
How Do You Store This Recipe?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to the container to prevent the enchiladas from drying out. You can pop them in the microwave or reheat them in the oven until warmed through.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Green Chicken Enchiladas?
- Ground Turkey or Beef: For a different protein, ground turkey or lean beef also works well. Make sure to cook and season them appropriately.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for black beans, sweet potatoes, or mushrooms for a vegetarian delight.
- Gluten-Free Tortillas: Use gluten-free tortillas to meet dietary needs for those with gluten sensitivity.
- Greek Yogurt: Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a healthier twist. It adds protein while keeping things creamy.
- Homemade Green Sauce: If store-bought sauces aren’t your thing, a homemade sauce can be made with tomatillos, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeños to fit your taste.
Green Chicken Enchiladas
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. This ensures you have everything ready before you begin cooking. Shred your cooked chicken and finely mince your garlic and onion. Chop the cilantro, as it will be added fresh for some herbaceous flavor.
- In a medium skillet, heat 1 teaspoon of olive or avocado oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them for about three minutes, keeping an eye on them. You want them to be soft and fragrant but not browned. This step builds a base of flavor that will enhance your enchiladas.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sautéed onion and garlic, sour cream, cumin, and chopped cilantro. This mixture should be well blended but still retain some texture. Give it a taste; you might want to adjust the seasoning here!
- If you’re using flour tortillas, it’s helpful to warm them slightly in the microwave or on the stovetop. This makes them easier to roll. If you’re using corn tortillas, consider warming them in a hot skillet for a few seconds on each side. This prevents them from cracking when you roll them.
- Lay out a tortilla on a clean surface. Place about a third of a cup of your filling towards one side. Sprinkle a small amount of cheese on top of the filling. Roll the tortilla snugly around the filling, tucking in the sides as you go. Place the rolled tortilla seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Repeat this process until you’ve filled all the tortillas.
- Once the enchiladas are in the baking dish, pour your green chile enchilada sauce evenly over the top. Make sure all tortillas are generously covered in sauce to keep them moist. Sprinkle with the remaining cheese, letting it blanket the top.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake your enchiladas for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tortillas are heated through. The allure of the cheese melded with the zesty sauce will fill your kitchen with mouth-watering aromas.
- Once out of the oven, allow the enchiladas a few minutes to cool down. Garnish with additional cilantro and maybe a dollop of sour cream if you’re feeling indulgent. Each serving can be paired with your choice of sides for a complete meal.
Nutrition
Notes
- Use Leftover Chicken: Cooking chicken in advance saves time. Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully too.
- Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses! Try goat cheese for a tangy twist.
- Opt for Homemade Sauce: If you’re feeling adventurous, making your own enchilada sauce can elevate the dish.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like sautéed bell peppers or spinach in the filling for additional nutrition.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or using a spicier green sauce.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze green chicken enchiladas?
Yes, assemble and freeze them before you bake. Just cover well with foil or plastic wrap and they will keep for about 2-3 months. When ready to cook, add a bit of extra time to the baking process.
How spicy are green chicken enchiladas?
The spice level depends largely on the type of green sauce you use. Most store-bought sauces are mild to moderate. If you’re unsure, start with a milder sauce and add fresh chopped jalapeños to taste.
Is there a dairy-free alternative?
Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese or cashew cream in place of sour cream and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Ensure that the cheese you select is dairy-free as well.
Can I prepare them ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the enchiladas a day ahead. Store them in the fridge covered until ready to bake.
What kind of cheese should I use?
Cheddar and Monterey Jack are classic choices. You can also experiment with lighter cheeses or mix them for added flavor.
Can I add more vegetables to the recipe?
Yes! Ingredients like zucchini, bell peppers, or corn can add more nutrition and texture. Sauté them alongside onions for a delicious addition to your filling.
Conclusion
Green chicken enchiladas are more than just a meal; they’re an experience filled with comfort and flavor. With this straightforward recipe, you can whip up a batch that will impress family and friends.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or whipping this up for a weeknight dinner, the possibilities are endless. So roll up your sleeves, get cooking, and enjoy every cheesy, chicken-filled bite!
