Crave-worthy chicken enchiladas: the authentic mexican recipe unveiled
What To Know
- Enchiladas, a traditional Mexican dish, are soft corn tortillas filled with a savory filling and smothered in a rich sauce.
- Whether you enjoy it as a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these chicken enchiladas are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
- What can I do if I don’t have a blender to make the sauce.
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Mexico with this delectable chicken enchiladas recipe. Enchiladas, a traditional Mexican dish, are soft corn tortillas filled with a savory filling and smothered in a rich sauce. This recipe will guide you through the process of creating authentic and mouthwatering chicken enchiladas, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Enchiladas:
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Making the Sauce:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth.
4. Add the tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until thickened.
Assembling the Enchiladas:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread a thin layer of sauce in the bottom of a 9Ă—13 inch baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, black beans, corn, tomatoes, and cheddar cheese.
4. Place about 1/2 cup of the filling in the center of each tortilla.
5. Roll up the tortillas and place them seam side down in the prepared baking dish.
6. Pour the remaining sauce over the enchiladas.
Baking the Enchiladas:
1. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Remove from the oven and let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Toppings and Sides
Enhance the flavors of your chicken enchiladas with a variety of toppings and sides:
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Pico de gallo
- Shredded lettuce
- Mexican rice
- Refried beans
Tips and Variations
- For a spicier version, add more chili powder or a few chopped jalapeños to the sauce.
- If you don’t have corn tortillas, you can use flour tortillas instead.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with tofu or black beans.
- Add other vegetables to the filling, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Top the enchiladas with a layer of shredded Monterey Jack cheese for an extra cheesy experience.
Healthier Options
To make your chicken enchiladas healthier, consider these options:
- Use whole-wheat tortillas instead of corn tortillas.
- Grill or bake the chicken instead of frying it.
- Use low-fat cheese or a blend of cheese and reduced-fat sour cream.
- Fill the enchiladas with more vegetables and less meat.
Presentation and Serving
Arrange the chicken enchiladas on a serving platter and garnish with fresh cilantro, chopped onions, and slices of avocado. Serve with your favorite toppings and sides for a complete Mexican feast.
The Final Verdict
This chicken enchiladas recipe Mexican will transport you to the vibrant streets of Mexico. With its authentic flavors, versatility, and ease of preparation, this dish is a culinary masterpiece that will impress your family and friends. Whether you enjoy it as a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these chicken enchiladas are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use ground beef, turkey, or pork instead of chicken.
Q: What can I do if I don’t have a blender to make the sauce?
A: You can use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the sauce ingredients.
Q: How can I store leftover chicken enchiladas?
A: Leftover chicken enchiladas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.