Hello there, fellow foodies! Are you tired of the same old recipes every week? Do you want to spice up your dinner routine? Look no further, because I have the perfect recipe for you – chicken enchiladas! Not only are they easy to make, but they are also incredibly delicious. Even better, you can customize them to your liking by adding your favorite toppings.
But you might be wondering, what are chicken enchiladas? Simply put, they are a traditional Mexican dish made of corn tortillas filled with seasoned shredded chicken, cheese, and sauce. The flavorful combination of spices and sauce creates a unique taste that will leave you and your guests wanting more.
Delicious Chicken Enchilada Recipe
Ingredients
If you’re craving for something spicy and comforting, chicken enchiladas might be the perfect answer! Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this delicious dish:
– 8-10 soft corn tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
– 1 cup enchilada sauce
– 1 can black beans
– 1 cup corn kernels
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped red or green bell pepper
– 2 cups shredded cheese
– Salt and pepper
– Chopped cilantro (optional)
Step-by-Step Preparations
Preparing chicken enchilada is not as complicated as you think it is. All you need is a bit of patience and love for cooking. Follow these step-by-step preparations for a lip-smacking meal:
1. Preheat your oven to 375F.
2. In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, black beans, corn kernels, chopped onions, and bell peppers.
3. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheese.
5. Pour half a cup of enchilada sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
6. Take a tortilla and add a spoonful of the chicken mixture at the center.
7. Roll the tortilla and place it seam-side down in the baking dish.
8. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and chicken mixture.
9. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce on top of the tortillas.
10. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top of the sauce.
11. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
12. Remove from oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes.
13. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken enchilada is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or with a side dish. Here are some serving suggestions that you might want to try:
– Guacamole: Top your chicken enchiladas with a dollop of guacamole for added flavor.
– Mexican rice: Serve your chicken enchiladas with a side of Mexican rice. This will make your meal more filling and satisfying.
– Salad: If you want to go for a lighter meal, serve your chicken enchiladas with a side salad. This will balance out the spiciness of the dish.
– Sour cream and salsa: Top your chicken enchiladas with a spoonful of sour cream and salsa for a tangy twist.
Enjoy your delicious chicken enchiladas! Buen provecho!
Health Benefits of Chicken Enchilada
Chicken enchilada is not only a delicious meal but also one that comes with numerous health benefits. Below are some of the health benefits of chicken enchilada.
High Protein Content
Protein is a vital nutrient required for building and repairing muscle tissues. Chicken enchilada is an excellent source of protein. The chicken in the enchilada provides the body with the much-needed protein to build and strengthen muscle tissues. This nutrient is particularly essential for individuals who engage in regular exercise or high-intensity workouts.
Additionally, protein is also necessary for the proper functioning of various body organs and systems. For instance, it aids in transporting oxygen and nutrients in the bloodstream and helps to regulate blood sugar levels in the body.
Low-Calorie Meal
Chicken enchilada is a low-calorie meal, which means it can be an excellent addition to a weight-loss diet. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition and Food Science found that reducing calorie intake leads to a reduced risk of various chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. Incorporating low-calorie meals like chicken enchilada in one’s diet can significantly contribute to a healthier life.
Furthermore, a low-calorie diet can help people achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Obesity is a leading cause of several health problems such as hypertension, stroke, and certain types of cancer. Therefore, reducing calorie intake by consuming low-calorie meals like chicken enchilada can help manage and prevent such health issues.
Source of Essential Nutrients
Chicken enchilada is a rich source of essential nutrients required for optimal health. These nutrients include vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and potassium.
Vitamin C, for instance, is a potent antioxidant that helps to protect the body against damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in strengthening the immune system, aiding collagen production, and improving iron absorption.
Iron, on the other hand, is essential for the production of red blood cells and hemoglobin, which are responsible for transporting oxygen to the body’s tissues. Vitamin A is necessary for maintaining healthy vision and cell growth, while potassium is crucial for regulating blood pressure and heart function.
Incorporating chicken enchilada in one’s diet can significantly contribute to fulfilling the daily requirements of these essential nutrients, thus promoting optimal health and wellbeing.
Conclusion
Chicken enchilada is an enjoyable meal that comes with numerous health benefits. It is rich in protein, low in calories, and provides essential nutrients required for optimal health. Incorporating this meal into your diet can have a significant positive impact on your overall health and wellbeing.
Chicken Enchilada Variations You Can Try Today
Are you tired of the same old chicken enchiladas and looking for something new? Look no further! Here are three delicious chicken enchilada variations that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Veggie Chicken Enchilada
If you or your guests are vegetarian, this veggie chicken enchilada recipe is perfect! It’s packed with flavor and loaded with vegetables.
To make the filling, sauté chopped onions, bell peppers, and zucchini until they’re soft. Then add canned black beans, corn, and cooked quinoa. Mix everything together, season with your favorite Mexican spices, and add some tomato sauce. Set the filling aside and prepare the tortillas. Spread a spoonful of refried beans on each tortilla and then add some of the vegetable filling. Roll up the tortillas and place them in a baking dish. Cover them with enchilada sauce and sprinkle with shredded cheese. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
This veggie chicken enchilada is a flavor-packed and healthy option that everyone will enjoy, even if they’re not vegetarian!
Spicy Chicken Enchilada
If you’re a fan of spicy food, this is the chicken enchilada recipe for you! It’s easy to adjust the spice level to your liking.
To make the filling, cook chicken and shred it. Then, add some diced onions, garlic, and canned diced tomatoes. Add some chili powder, cumin, and hot sauce to taste. Let the mixture simmer until the flavors are combined. Take some tortillas, add the filling, roll them up, and place them in a baking dish. Cover with enchilada sauce and sprinkle with shredded cheese. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
This spicy chicken enchilada recipe is perfect for those who love to add some heat to their meals!
Cheesy Chicken Enchilada
For all the cheese lovers out there, this cheesy chicken enchilada recipe is a must try! It’s loaded with ooey-gooey cheese and will be a hit with everyone.
To make the filling for this chicken enchilada, cook and shred chicken. Mix in some diced onions, garlic, and canned diced tomatoes. Add your favorite Mexican spices and mix well. Prepare the tortillas and fill them with the chicken mixture. Roll them up and place them in a baking dish. Cover with enchilada sauce and sprinkle with shredded cheese. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
This cheesy chicken enchilada recipe is sure to be a hit with everyone at the dinner table!
Happy Cooking and Come Back Soon!
We hope this chicken enchilada recipe has inspired you to add a little spice to your weeknight dinners. It’s a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or satisfying your cravings. Remember, you can always modify the recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary restrictions. Don’t be afraid to mix it up!
Thanks for reading and don’t forget to come back soon for more tasty recipes and cooking tips. We’re always here to help you spice up your meals and make cooking more enjoyable. Feel free to leave us a comment or share your own twist on this recipe. Happy cooking!
FAQ
1. Can I use another type of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with shredded beef, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
2. Can I make the enchilada sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce up to a week in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just reheat it before using.
3. Can the recipe be doubled or halved?
Yes, this recipe is easy to scale. Just adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly.
4. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Definitely! Corn tortillas will add a unique flavor and texture to the dish.
5. How long will leftovers keep in the fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
6. Can I freeze the enchiladas?
Yes, you can freeze the enchiladas before baking them. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
7. Can I use store-bought enchilada sauce instead of making my own?
Yes, you can use store-bought sauce if you’re short on time. Just be sure to choose a high-quality brand.
8. How spicy is this recipe?
It’s mildly spicy, but you can adjust the heat level by adding more or less chili powder and jalapenos.
9. What sides would you recommend serving with these enchiladas?
Some tasty sides include Spanish rice, black beans, guacamole, and salsa.
10. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, you can use pre-shredded cheese, but freshly grated cheese will melt better and provide a creamier texture.