Pauline'S Fiesta Chicken
Creamy, cheesy chicken enchiladas with green chilies and onions, rolled in tortillas, baked to perfection — a flavorful, comforting dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, diced onion, and diced green chilies in a bowl.
- Combine cooked, diced chicken, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and half of the soup mixture.
- Spread some of the sauce on the bottom of a baking pan.
- Place an even amount of the chicken mixture on each tortilla, spread across, then roll up and place seam side down in the pan.
- Cover the assembled tortillas evenly with the remaining sauce.
- Sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top.
- Cover the pan with foil and bake at 325°F (163°C) for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat sour cream and a reduced-fat cream of chicken soup. If you want to enhance the flavors, add a teaspoon of cumin or paprika to the chicken mixture. You can also substitute chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken to save time. This recipe is quite versatile; feel free to add black beans or corn for extra texture, similar to what you might find in Paula'S Chicken Enchiladas.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of Spanish rice or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal. This dish pairs beautifully with a zesty salsa or guacamole to enhance the flavors. You can also offer sour cream or additional shredded cheese on the side for those who want to customize their servings. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside El Paso Pilaf(Add Meat If You Must) for a hearty feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. For the best texture, reheat the entire dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pauline'S Fiesta Chicken contains roughly 423 calories, with 11g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1224mg per serving (53% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for the flour tortillas?
If you're looking for a gluten-free option, consider using corn tortillas or gluten-free tortillas. You can also use lettuce leaves for a low-carb alternative. Just be aware that baking times may vary, so keep an eye on your dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, use spicy diced green chilies or add chopped jalapeños to the chicken mixture. You can also sprinkle some cayenne pepper or chili powder into the sauce. Adjust the spice level to your preference, ensuring it complements the creaminess of the dish.
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).