It was a chilly evening when I first decided to whip up a batch of Creamy Queso Chicken Enchiladas. Our small kitchen was filled with the comforting aroma of chicken and cheese melting together, the warmth wrapping around me like a cozy blanket. In that moment, I remembered how my grandmother used to gather our family around the table, sharing stories over her own enchiladas. Those memories of laughter and joy inspired me to create a dish that not only satisfied our taste buds but also brought us together as a family.
Recipe Timing
- Prep Duration: 15 minutes
- Active Cooking: 30 minutes
- Total Duration: 45 minutes
- Portion Size: Serves 4-6
- Complexity: Simple
Nutritional Recipe
- Calories per portion: Approximately 400
- Protein: 25g per serving
- Carbs: 30g per serving
- Fats: 25g per serving
- Fiber: 2g per serving
- Sugars: 2g per serving
- Sodium: 650mg per serving
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Queso Chicken Enchiladas
These Creamy Queso Chicken Enchiladas are not just a meal; they are a celebration of flavor and comfort. Each bite is a creamy explosion of cheesy goodness wrapped around tender chicken, with a subtle kick from the green chiles. They’re easy to make, perfect for both a family dinner and that fun night in with friends. Plus, the best part? They bake together in one dish, making cleanup a breeze while still delivering that homemade goodness.
The Complete Cooking Journey
Let’s embark on this culinary adventure together! You’ll experience the joy of mixing, rolling, and baking, creating something delicious and satisfying—just like those cherished family moments.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup queso cheese, shredded
- 1 can diced green chiles
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 cup enchilada sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your enchiladas are perfectly cooked and bubbling when they come out.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, cream cheese, queso cheese, diced green chiles, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. This cheesy filling is what dreams are made of!
Step 3: Prepare the Tortillas
Warm the tortillas slightly to make them pliable. This makes rolling them up much easier and prevents tearing. You can microwave them for about 15-20 seconds.
Step 4: Fill the Tortillas
Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture, roll them up, and then place them seam-side down in a greased baking dish. It’s like wrapping a gift, but the joy is in the bite!
Step 5: Pour on the Sauce
Pour the enchilada sauce generously over the rolled tortillas. This adds a rich flavor and helps keep everything moist as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake the Enchiladas
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly waiting.
Step 7: Serve Hot and Enjoy!
Serve hot and enjoy! These enchiladas are perfect as they are, but feel free to add any of your favorite toppings.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
These Creamy Queso Chicken Enchiladas pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, guacamole, or a side of refried beans. A crisp margarita or a refreshing iced tea can elevate your meal even more!
Storage & Leftovers Guide
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker assembly.
- If you want a bit more heat, try adding diced jalapeños to the filling.
- For a healthier twist, swap out the cream cheese for Greek yogurt.
Flavor Variations & Adaptations
Feel free to switch up the cheese! Adding Monterey Jack or pepper jack can introduce different flavor profiles. You can also substitute turkey or shredded veggies for a meatless option.
Reader Questions & Solutions
-
Q1: What can I use instead of corn tortillas?
A: Flour tortillas work well, but they may not hold as tightly. -
Q2: Can I prep these ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the enchiladas, cover and refrigerate overnight before baking. -
Q3: How can I make these gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free corn tortillas and ensure all sauces and seasonings are gluten-free. -
Q4: What can I add for more flavor?
A: Consider adding a squeeze of lime or some fresh cilantro on top before serving. -
Q5: My filling spilled out while rolling; how do I prevent that?
A: Make sure not to overfill the tortillas and roll them tightly.
Wrapping Up
I hope you find as much joy in these Creamy Queso Chicken Enchiladas as my family and I do. They are a cozy reminder that good food can create blissful connections, share love, and bring warmth into our homes. So gather your loved ones, roll up some enchiladas, and enjoy the deliciousness of comfort food made easy! Happy cooking!
Print
Creamy Queso Chicken Enchiladas
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting dish filled with cheesy goodness and tender chicken, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup queso cheese, shredded
- 1 can diced green chiles
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 cup enchilada sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, cream cheese, queso cheese, diced green chiles, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Warm the tortillas slightly to make them pliable.
- Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture, roll them up, and place them seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Pour the enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken for quicker assembly. For added heat, consider adding diced jalapeños to the filling.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
