Looking for a quick dinner that’s both simple and delicious? These Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas are perfect for you! With just a few key ingredients, like tender chicken and creamy cheese, you’ll have a meal ready in no time. I’ll guide you through every step, from mixing to baking. Get ready to impress your family with a tasty dish that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 can (10 oz) green enchilada sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 8 small flour tortillas
To make these easy cream cheese chicken enchiladas, you need simple and tasty main ingredients. The chicken adds protein, while the cream cheese gives a rich and creamy texture. The green enchilada sauce adds a zesty punch that balances the dish. Using both cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese creates a delicious flavor blend. Lastly, the flour tortillas wrap everything together perfectly.
Seasonings
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Seasonings are key to enhancing the flavor of your enchiladas. Garlic powder and onion powder add depth. Cumin brings a warm, earthy note that ties all the ingredients together. Always adjust salt and pepper to your taste for a well-seasoned dish.
Garnish
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Garnish your enchiladas with fresh cilantro. It adds a bright, fresh flavor and makes the dish look appealing. A little sprinkle goes a long way in elevating your meal.
For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
First, you need to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step warms up the oven, making it ready for baking. A preheated oven helps the enchiladas cook evenly.
Mix Chicken and Cream Cheese
In a large bowl, mix 2 cups of shredded chicken with 8 oz of softened cream cheese. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Use a fork or spatula to blend everything until it’s smooth and creamy. This mixture is the heart of your enchiladas.
Fill and Roll the Tortillas
Next, take a small flour tortilla. Scoop about a third of a cup of the chicken-cream cheese mixture and place it in the center. Carefully roll the tortilla tightly. Make sure the seam is down when you place it in a greased baking dish. Repeat this with all 8 tortillas. Each roll should be snug but not too tight.
Add Sauce and Cheese
Once your tortillas are in the baking dish, pour 1 can (10 oz) of green enchilada sauce evenly over the top. This sauce gives flavor and moisture to the enchiladas. After that, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top. Cover the enchiladas completely with cheese for a gooey finish.
Bake the Enchiladas
Cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake in your preheated oven for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes. You want the cheese to get bubbly and golden. This creates a delicious crust on top.
Garnish and Serve
When your enchiladas are done baking, take them out and let them cool for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top. This adds a burst of color and flavor. Now, your easy cream cheese chicken enchiladas are ready to enjoy! For the complete recipe, check out the full recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Filling
To make the chicken-cream cheese mixture shine, you can add a few extras. Try mixing in some chopped green onions for a fresh crunch. A squeeze of lime juice adds a zesty kick. If you like heat, diced jalapeños give a nice spice. You can also experiment with spices. Add some chili powder or paprika for extra flavor. These simple tweaks can elevate your enchiladas and impress your family.
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover enchiladas, store them properly to keep them tasty. Let the dish cool completely before storing. Use an airtight container to seal in freshness. They can stay in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them. Wrap each enchilada in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can last for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing sides and drinks with your enchiladas can make the meal even better. A fresh salad with lime vinaigrette adds a light touch. You could also serve rice seasoned with cilantro and lime. For drinks, try a chilled margarita or a light beer. These options balance the rich flavors of the enchiladas. Enjoy your meal with family and friends!
Variations
Adding Vegetables
You can easily add vegetables to the enchiladas for extra flavor and nutrition. Here are some great options:
– Spinach: Add fresh or cooked spinach to the filling. It adds color and nutrients.
– Bell Peppers: Dice red, green, or yellow bell peppers for sweetness and crunch.
– Corn: Sweet corn adds a nice pop of flavor and texture.
– Zucchini: Shredded zucchini blends well with the chicken and cream cheese.
Mix these vegetables in with the chicken and cream cheese for a tasty twist.
Alternative Cheeses
If you want to switch up the cheese, many options work well:
– Pepper Jack: This cheese adds a nice kick with its spices.
– Feta: Crumbled feta gives a tangy flavor that pairs well with the chicken.
– Mozzarella: For a milder taste, use mozzarella cheese for a gooey texture.
Feel free to mix and match these cheeses to find your favorite blend.
Spice Level Adjustments
You can easily control the spice level in your enchiladas. Here’s how:
– Mild: Use a mild green enchilada sauce and skip any hot spices.
– Medium: Add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne for a bit of heat.
– Spicy: Mix in diced jalapeños or use a spicy enchilada sauce.
Adjust the spice to fit your taste and enjoy a customized dish.
Storage Info
Storing in the Refrigerator
You can keep your leftover enchiladas in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to four days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is the best choice. Always let the enchiladas cool to room temperature before storing.
Freezing for Later
To freeze your enchiladas, follow these steps:
– Wrap each enchilada tightly in plastic wrap.
– Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
– They can stay in the freezer for up to three months.
When you are ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge.
Reheating Tips
To reheat your enchiladas without losing flavor, try these methods:
– Use the oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place enchiladas in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
– Use the microwave: Place one enchilada on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for 1 to 2 minutes, checking often.
These methods keep your enchiladas warm and tasty. Enjoy them hot!
FAQs
Can I use Rotisserie Chicken?
Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds great flavor. Just shred the chicken and mix it with the cream cheese. This shortcut makes the recipe even easier. I often recommend this method for busy nights.
How do I make these enchiladas gluten-free?
To make these enchiladas gluten-free, switch to gluten-free tortillas. Many brands offer tasty options. Look for ones made from corn or rice flour. They work well and hold the filling nicely. Just follow the same steps as the recipe.
What can I serve with Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas?
These enchiladas pair well with many sides. Consider serving them with a fresh salad, rice, or beans. You can also add some guacamole or sour cream for extra flavor. Chips and salsa make a fun appetizer too. Enjoy mixing and matching!
This blog post shared a tasty recipe for cream cheese chicken enchiladas. You learned about the main ingredients, seasonings, and how to prepare them step by step. We explored tips for perfecting the filling and storing leftovers. You also got ideas for variations, storage info, and frequently asked questions.
Enchiladas are versatile and sure to please. Enjoy making them your way!
