Lazy Chicken Enchiladas
Creamy chicken enchiladas with melted cheese, salsa, and flavorful cilantro, ideal for a comforting family dinner or casual gatherings with bold Mexican flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the chicken breasts into small pieces and place them into a frying pan with melted butter.
- Season the chicken with fresh cilantro.
- Cook for 5 minutes or until the chicken is white and cooked through.
- In a mixing bowl, soften the cream cheese and combine with salsa.
- Add shredded cheese to the mixture and stir well.
- Warm the enchilada sauce in a saucepan.
- Wrap the cooked chicken in corn tortillas and place in a baking dish.
- Pour enchilada sauce over the assembled tortillas.
- Spread the cheese and salsa mixture over the top.
- Bake until bubbly and cheese is melted, about 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To add extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lime juice and garlic before cooking. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken can be a convenient substitute. You can also use flour tortillas instead of corn for a different texture. For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or use a spicy salsa. This recipe is a great way to use leftover chicken from other meals, like Caldo De Pollo.
Serving Suggestions
These Lazy Chicken Enchiladas are delicious served with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans. Top with additional chopped cilantro, sour cream, or guacamole for added flavor. For a refreshing contrast, serve with a simple side salad or some fresh pico de gallo. This dish pairs beautifully with Spicy Mexican Black Bean Soup for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the enchiladas on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will keep the tortillas crispier.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lazy Chicken Enchiladas contains roughly 3705 calories, with 72g protein, 186g carbohydrates, and 319g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (1111% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1187mg per serving (52% 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?
Absolutely! While shredded cheese adds a nice melt, you can use pepper jack for a spicy kick or even a dairy-free cheese if you're looking for substitutions. Just ensure the cheese you choose melts well for optimal texture.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make these enchiladas vegetarian, substitute the chicken with black beans, sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini, or lentils. You can also add some cooked quinoa for added protein and texture.
What can I do if I don't have enchilada sauce?
If you don't have enchilada sauce, you can easily make a quick substitute by blending canned tomatoes with spices such as cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. Alternatively, a simple tomato sauce with added spices can work in a pinch, ensuring you maintain the flavor profile.
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).