Chicken Enchilitas
Creamy chicken enchiladas with green peppers and Velveeta cheese offer a flavorful, cheesy dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir cooked chicken, chopped green pepper, half of the picante sauce, and cream cheese in a saucepan over low heat until smooth.
- Spoon about 1/3 cup of the chicken mixture onto each flour tortilla shell.
- Roll up the tortillas and arrange them in a baking pan.
- In a separate saucepan, melt Velveeta cheese with milk until smooth.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the assembled tortillas in the pan.
- Pour the remaining picante sauce over the top of the tortillas and cheese mixture.
- Cover the pan with foil and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes or until heated through.
- Let set for 1 hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt along with the cream cheese. You can substitute the Velveeta cheese with a mix of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack for extra flavor. If you want a spicier kick, use a hotter picante sauce or add diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture. This dish pairs nicely with Mary'S Salsa for an extra flavor boost.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the enchilitas with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete meal. A crisp green salad or corn salad can provide a refreshing contrast. Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or extra picante sauce for added flavor. This dish also makes a great accompaniment to Tex-Mex Potato Soup for a hearty spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the enchiladas in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Enchilitas contains roughly 559 calories, with 13g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (38% of the Daily Value), iron (36% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 746mg per serving (32% 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 rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a convenient option that can save time and add flavor. Just shred or chop the meat and mix it into the filling as directed. It works perfectly in this recipe and keeps the dish deliciously moist.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the chicken with cooked black beans or sautéed vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms. You can also add extra cheese for a hearty filling. Just ensure that all other ingredients, like the tortillas, are vegetarian-friendly.
What can I do if I have leftover filling?
If you have leftover filling, consider using it as a topping for nachos or mixing it into a quesadilla. You can also add it to a salad for a protein boost or incorporate it into a breakfast scramble with eggs. It’s versatile and can elevate many dishes!
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).