Cheese 'N Chicken
Cheese 'N Chicken combines tender shredded chicken with cheesy, spicy flavors wrapped in tortillas, baked to perfection. Perfect for a hearty, family-friendly meal with a zesty kick.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the chopped onion in margarine until tender.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and cook for a few minutes.
- Add 1/4 cup of picante sauce and the cream cheese, cooking until heated through.
- Stir in 1 cup of grated Cheddar cheese until melted.
- Spoon about 1/3 cup of the mixture into the center of each tortilla and roll up.
- Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down in a 7 x 12-inch dish.
- Top with remaining picante sauce and cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider using Neufchâtel cheese instead of cream cheese. You can also add black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor. Adjust the level of picante sauce based on your spice preference. If you don't have tortillas, you can serve the mixture over rice for a different twist. This dish is a fantastic way to utilize leftovers from other chicken recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cheese 'N Chicken with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. Consider pairing it with Frijoles for a classic combination. Garnish with chopped cilantro, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor. These rolls are also great for parties; slice them into bite-sized pieces for easy sharing.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Cheese 'N Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the rolled tortillas in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 1-2 minutes, but this may affect the texture of the tortillas.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese 'N Chicken contains roughly 1367 calories, with 44g protein, 133g carbohydrates, and 76g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (125% of the Daily Value), protein (88% of the Daily Value), and calcium (73% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2023mg per serving (88% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute the Cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a different flavor profile. These cheeses melt well and add a nice creaminess to the dish. Experimenting with different cheeses can enhance the overall taste of your Cheese 'N Chicken.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and roll the tortillas a day in advance. Just store them covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This makes for a convenient meal option when entertaining or busy during the week.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Certainly! You can replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or a mix of your favorite vegetables. Adding black beans or lentils can provide protein while keeping it vegetarian. The cream cheese and cheese combination will still give a delicious creamy texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).