How to Make Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas
If you're craving a cozy, flavorful Mexican-inspired dinner, Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas are a must-try! These enchiladas are stuffed with tender chicken and a creamy, cheesy filling, then topped with a flavorful sauce for an extra layer of deliciousness. They’re easy to prepare and perfect for a family dinner, potlucks, or meal prep.
Let’s walk you through how to make these irresistible cream cheese chicken enchiladas that are guaranteed to be a hit!
Ingredients
For the Enchiladas:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or diced)
- 8 small flour tortillas (or corn tortillas if you prefer)
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup green onions (chopped)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for added creaminess)
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Enchilada Sauce:
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
To make this recipe quicker, use leftover cooked chicken, rotisserie chicken, or poach some chicken breasts in a pot of water for about 15-20 minutes until cooked through. Once the chicken is ready, shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks. You’ll need about 2 cups of shredded chicken for the filling.
2. Make the Creamy Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, sour cream (if using), diced green chilies, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Add the shredded chicken to the mixture and stir to combine, making sure the chicken is evenly coated in the creamy, cheesy filling.
3. Prepare the Enchilada Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the red enchilada sauce, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This will be the sauce that you pour over the enchiladas to add flavor and moisture.
4. Assemble the Enchiladas
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a bit of oil.
To assemble the enchiladas, lightly warm the tortillas in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds so they’re easier to roll. Spoon a generous amount of the cream cheese chicken mixture into the center of each tortilla, then roll it up tightly. Place each rolled tortilla seam-side down into the prepared baking dish.
5. Pour the Sauce Over the Enchiladas
Once all the enchiladas are rolled and in the baking dish, pour the prepared enchilada sauce evenly over the top. Be sure to cover each enchilada with sauce to keep them moist while baking. For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the enchiladas before baking.
6. Bake the Enchiladas
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the enchiladas are heated through.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. You can garnish with fresh cilantro, more green onions, a dollop of sour cream, or some sliced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
Serving Suggestions
These Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas pair wonderfully with a variety of sides, including:
- Mexican Rice: A fluffy, flavorful side dish that complements the richness of the enchiladas.
- Refried Beans: Creamy, savory beans add depth to the meal.
- Guacamole & Chips: Fresh guacamole and crispy tortilla chips make for the perfect appetizer or side.
Why You'll Love These Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas
- Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar creates a rich, creamy filling that melts in your mouth.
- Quick and Easy: You can prepare these enchiladas in less than an hour, making them an ideal weeknight meal for busy families.
- Customizable: Feel free to add extra veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or corn to the filling. You can also use your favorite type of cheese or switch up the sauce.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can assemble these enchiladas in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes meal prep a breeze!
Final Tips
- Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier dish, consider using a spicier enchilada sauce or adding fresh chopped jalapeños to the cream cheese mixture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tortillas to make this recipe gluten-free, and be sure to check your enchilada sauce for gluten-containing ingredients.
- Extra Toppings: Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, or your favorite salsa for added freshness.
These Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas are sure to become a favorite in your household! With their creamy filling, cheesy topping, and savory enchilada sauce, this recipe combines the best of comfort food and Mexican flavors. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious meal with your loved ones!