Mexican Green Chile, Chicken, and Cheese Enchiladas: A Flavorful Fiesta in Every Bite

If you’re craving a deliciously cheesy, savory, and slightly spicy dish, Mexican Green Chile, Chicken, and Cheese Enchiladas are the perfect choice. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking to enjoy a comforting homemade meal, these enchiladas are sure to impress. With the rich flavor of green chile sauce, tender shredded chicken, and a melty cheese topping, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love These Enchiladas

Enchiladas are a staple of Mexican cuisine, and this recipe puts a flavorful twist on the classic with a homemade green chile enchilada sauce that adds a smoky depth to the dish. The combination of shredded chicken, cheese, and sour cream wrapped in corn tortillas creates layers of flavor and texture that everyone will love. The green chile sauce is the star of the show, adding just the right amount of heat and tang, while the cheese and sour cream balance everything perfectly.

These enchiladas are easy to prepare, with options for using store-bought ingredients for a quicker meal or making your own green chile enchilada sauce from scratch for a more authentic flavor. Either way, the result is a dish that’s bursting with flavor and sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients for Mexican Green Chile, Chicken, and Cheese Enchiladas

For the Enchiladas:

2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)

8-10 corn tortillas

2 cups green chile enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)

2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)

1 cup sour cream

1/2 cup chopped green onions (optional)

Olive oil (for frying tortillas)

For the Green Chile Enchilada Sauce (if making homemade):

2 cups green chiles (canned or roasted)

1 cup chicken broth

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon flour

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions: How to Make Mexican Green Chile, Chicken, and Cheese Enchiladas

1. Prepare the Enchilada Sauce (if making homemade)

If you’re making the green chile sauce from scratch, start by heating olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it becomes lightly browned. This helps create a smooth base for the sauce. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the green chiles, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10 minutes until it slightly thickens, and then remove it from the heat.

2. Prepare the Tortillas

To make sure the tortillas hold up and don’t tear while rolling, they need to be softened first. In a skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Briefly fry each tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side until they are soft and pliable. Be careful not to crisp them up. Once done, drain the tortillas on paper towels to remove excess oil.

3. Assemble the Enchiladas

Now comes the fun part—assembling the enchiladas! Spread a spoonful of green chile sauce onto each tortilla. Add a generous portion of shredded chicken, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream. Roll up each tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas, arranging them in a single layer.

4. Bake the Enchiladas

Once the enchiladas are all rolled and placed in the baking dish, pour the remaining green chile sauce over the top of the tortillas. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, covering the entire surface. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the enchiladas are heated through.

5. Serve

After baking, remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve with extra sour cream, avocado slices, or even a fresh side salad. These enchiladas are perfect on their own or as part of a larger Mexican-inspired feast.

Tips for Making the Best Enchiladas

Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker option, rotisserie chicken works perfectly. Simply shred the meat and you’re ready to go.

Customize the Sauce: If you like your enchiladas spicier, add some extra jalapeños or even a dash of hot sauce to the green chile sauce. On the other hand, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of chiles or opt for a more mild green chile variety.

Soften Tortillas Properly: Frying the tortillas before rolling them helps prevent them from breaking and makes them more flavorful. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can also lightly heat them in the microwave or on a dry skillet.

Make Ahead: You can prepare the enchiladas the night before by assembling them in the baking dish and refrigerating them. In the morning, just bake them until golden and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

Mexican Green Chile, Chicken, and Cheese Enchiladas are delicious on their own, but you can elevate your meal with a variety of tasty sides. Here are a few ideas:

Mexican Rice: A side of flavorful Mexican rice complements the enchiladas and soaks up the green chile sauce.

Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add another layer of comfort to your meal.

Guacamole: Fresh guacamole with crunchy tortilla chips makes for a perfect appetizer or side.

Pico de Gallo: A fresh, zesty salsa adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the enchiladas.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of these delicious enchiladas contains approximately:

Calories: 400-450 per serving

Fat: 20-25g

Carbohydrates: 35-40g

Protein: 20-25g

Keep in mind that the nutritional content will vary based on portion sizes and any additional toppings you choose to add.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Green Chile, Chicken, and Cheese Enchiladas are a hearty, flavorful dish that combines the comforting qualities of cheese, chicken, and green chile sauce into a perfect bite. Whether you’re preparing this dish for a family meal or for guests, the rich and savory flavors are sure to be a hit. With the option to make your own green chile enchilada sauce or use store-bought for convenience, this recipe is versatile and customizable. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy a fiesta of flavors!

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