Name: Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups green chili sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1 cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (leftover rotisserie chicken works great); 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1/2 cup diced onions (preferably sweet onions); 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; Salt and pepper (to taste); 8-10 pieces corn tortillas; Fresh cilantro (for garnish); Extra cheese (for topping)

Spread the love

Jump to Recipe

Personal Story Behind This Recipe

Growing up in a household where food was the centerpiece of every gathering, I remember my grandmother’s kitchen smelling of roasted green chiles and tender chicken. It was a magical place, filled with the sound of sizzling pans and laughter. One day, she decided to teach me how to make her famous Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas.

The vibrant flavors and warm, comforting textures instantly cemented this dish in my heart. Not only did it become a cherished family recipe, but it also served as a warm hug on a plate during gatherings with family and friends. My beloved enchiladas are made special by the way they bring everyone together, and it’s a joy to share them with others.

Why It’s a Reader Favorite

What truly makes this Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas recipe special is its unbeatable combination of flavors and the ease with which it can be prepared. Perfect for weeknight dinners and entertaining alike, it’s a crowd-pleaser that suits all taste buds. With healthier options and a comforting touch, this dish allows you to savor a taste of home without extensive preparation.

Whip it up in less than an hour, and feel the warmth and satisfaction when you’re devoured each cheesy bite. Each time I make it, the kitchen fills with nostalgia and creates new memories, ensuring it’s a must-try for anyone who loves a good meal.

Ingredient List

For the Sauce:

2 cups green chili sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Filling:

2 cups cooked shredded chicken (leftover rotisserie chicken works great)
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/2 cup diced onions (preferably sweet onions)
1/2 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:

8-10 corn tortillas
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Extra cheese for topping

When selecting your green chili sauce, look for brands with a short ingredient list for the cleanest flavor. You can use any leftover chicken you have or even quickly poach some if you prefer a fresher option.

How to Make Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your enchiladas will bake evenly and emerge bubbly and golden.

Step 2: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté the diced onions until they become translucent, around 3-4 minutes. This will add depth to your filling.

Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, sautéed onions, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, sour cream, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 4: In another bowl, mix the green chili sauce with chicken broth until smooth. Reserve half of this sauce for topping later.

Step 5: Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side to make them pliable.

Step 6: Take each tortilla, fill it with a generous scoop of the chicken mixture, and roll it up. Place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.

Step 7: Once all the tortillas are rolled and in the baking dish, pour the reserved green chili sauce over the top and sprinkle with additional cheese.

Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The edges of the tortillas should be slightly crisp and golden this is the perfect texture!

Tips & Recipe Variations

Use Rotisserie Chicken: To save time, using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut just shred and mix!
Gluten-Free Option: Swap corn tortillas for gluten-free options to accommodate dietary needs.
Vegetarian Adaptation: Substitute the chicken with roasted veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or beans for a hearty vegetarian version.
Make-Ahead Tip: You can assemble the enchiladas the night before, cover them, and refrigerate. Just add an extra 10 minutes to cooking time if they’re cold from the fridge.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy edges!

Best Ways to Serve

These Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas are delicious on their own, but pairing them with a fresh side salad, cilantro-lime rice, or homemade guacamole elevates the experience. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. A dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime will enhance the dish further. For drinks, consider a refreshing margarita or non-alcoholic limeade to perfectly balance the rich flavors.

Common Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the enchiladas and store them in the fridge overnight. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to bake.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, these enchiladas freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil or store in an airtight container. Just thaw in the fridge the night before and reheat in the oven.

What can I use instead of chicken?

You can use any cooked protein you prefer, such as shredded beef, turkey, or even a mix of roasted vegetables for a vegetarian twist.

How do I prevent the dish from becoming watery?

Make sure your chicken and sauce are well-drained, and avoid overloading the filling to keep the enchiladas perfectly moist without excess water.

Can I make this vegetarian or dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the chicken for beans or roasted vegetables and use dairy-free cheese and sour cream for a delicious vegetarian and dairy-free version.

Conclusion

These Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas are more than just a meal; they’re a connection to heartwarming memories and a way to create new traditions. Each bite brings the flavors of home to your table, making it an ideal dish for gatherings or cozy nights in. I encourage you to try making them, share your experience, and perhaps even add your own twist to this family favorite. Your kitchen may soon fill with laughter and warmth, just as it did in my grandmother’s!

“The green chile chicken enchiladas are pure comfort! They’re bursting with flavor and bring everyone to the table, leaving us all wanting more.” – A happy cook