Cooker Enchilada Chicken: step-by-step recipe, cooking time and cooking temperature, calorie content, recipe variations.

Enchilada Chicken – What is it?

Enchilada Chicken is a delightful fusion of traditional Mexican flavors combined with succulent chicken meat. This comforting dish originates from the heartwarming culinary traditions of Mexico, where corn tortillas are rolled around savory fillings such as shredded or grilled chicken, cheese, beans, and vegetables. These rolls are then smothered in a rich red chili sauce, often made from ground chilies like ancho or guajillo peppers, giving it its signature fiery flavor. Baked to perfection until bubbly and golden brown, every bite offers layers of complex tastes that dance harmoniously on the palate. Whether enjoyed at family gatherings or simply indulged during cozy nights, Enchilada Chicken promises warmth, satisfaction, and unforgettable moments shared over food.

Recipe for Chicken Enchiladas

Ingredients:

 • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

 • 2 tbsp olive oil, divided 

 • Salt and pepper to taste

 • 1 large onion, diced 

 • 3 cloves garlic, minced 

 • 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional) 

 • 1 tsp ground cumin

 • ½ tsp dried oregano

 • 1 can (14 oz.) fire-roasted tomatoes with green chilies

 • 1 cup chicken broth

 • 8 corn tortillas

 • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese or Cheddar cheese

 • Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

 • Sour cream (optional)

 • Lime wedges (optional)

Step-by-step Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

 • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

 • Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides.

 • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.

 • Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from pan and let cool slightly before slicing into thin strips.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

 • In the same skillet used for cooking the chicken, add another tablespoon of olive oil.

 • Once heated, sauté the onions until softened and translucent, then stir in the garlic and jalapeño if using.

 • Sprinkle in the cumin and oregano, allowing them to toast briefly.

 • Stir in the fire-roasted tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a simmer, reduce heat, cover partially, and allow it to gently bubble for around 10–15 minutes until flavors are well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas

 • Spread a small amount of sauce onto the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish.

 • Warm up each tortilla individually by placing them directly over low-medium flame or quickly heating them in the microwave for just seconds at a time.

 • Lay out one warmed tortilla, spoon some shredded chicken down its center, top with a bit more sauce and sprinkle with cheese.

 • Roll tightly and place seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat with remaining ingredients until all enchiladas are made.

 • Pour any leftover sauce evenly over the rolled enchiladas, ensuring they’re fully coated.

 • Scatter the rest of the grated cheese across the tops.

Step 4: Bake & Serve

 • Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake in preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes.

 • Uncover, turn temperature up to 400°F (200°C), and continue baking uncovered for another 5–10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.

 • Allow the enchiladas to sit for a few moments after removing from the oven so that everything settles properly.

 • Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately alongside sour cream and lime wedges if desired.

Enjoy! This recipe yields about 4 servings depending on appetite size. Let me know how you like it!

How to Choose the Right Meat for Chicken Enchiladas

To prepare perfect Chicken Enchiladas, it’s important to select suitable chicken fillets that will ensure tenderness and juiciness in the final dish. Here are several tips from a professional chef:

1. Quality of Meat

When purchasing chicken, pay attention to these aspects:

 • Color: The meat should have a pleasant pale pink color without gray tones.

 • Smell: Fresh product has a light characteristic aroma of poultry, free from foreign odors.

 • Elasticity: If you press the surface of the meat with your finger, it should quickly return to its original shape.

 • Storage: Opt for refrigerated rather than frozen meat—this ensures better flavor and texture.

2. Type of Cut

The best choice for Chicken Enchiladas is breast fillet without skin and bones. This type of chicken meat is low in calories and fat-free, making it ideal for healthy eating.

However, if you’d prefer something juicier, consider thigh fillet—it’s softer and contains slight fatty layers that give the dish extra richness.

3. Portion Size

It’s best to cut the chicken fillet into thin strips about 1 cm wide. This way, the pieces will cook uniformly inside the enchiladas and be easy to roll into tortillas.

Tips Before Cooking:

 • Lightly season the fillets with salt and pepper before frying.

 • To speed up preparation, marinate the prepared chicken slices in milk or lemon juice for about half an hour—this makes the meat tender and moist.

By following these recommendations, you’ll be able to make delicious Chicken Enchiladas worthy of any Mexican restaurant menu!

Time Breakdown for Making Chicken Enchiladas

Cooking authentic Chicken Enchiladas requires careful timing and proper technique. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the process, step by step, as I would explain it in my kitchen:

Preparation Time: About 30 Minutes

Marinating the Chicken Fillets:

 • After cleaning and drying the chicken, slice it into long, thin strips. Marinate the chicken in a simple mix of salt, pepper, and citrus juice (lemon or lime). Set aside for 15-20 minutes while preparing other components.

 Making the Enchilada Sauce:

 • Dice the onion, mince the garlic, chop the jalapeno, and measure spices such as cumin and oregano. Combine these elements with roasted tomato sauce and chicken stock in a pot. Simmer the sauce for about 10-15 minutes to blend flavors.

 Warming Tortillas:

 • You’ll need to warm the tortillas slightly so they’re flexible enough to wrap without breaking. Microwave each tortilla separately for 10-15 seconds or use a dry skillet over low heat.

Active Cooking Time: Approximately 45 Minutes

 Cooking the Chicken Strips:

 • Sear the marinated chicken strips in a hot skillet with olive oil until nicely browned outside yet still juicy within. Typically takes 5-7 minutes total.

 Assembling the Enchiladas:

 • Place a layer of sauce in the bottom of a greased baking dish. Then start rolling filled tortillas: fill each tortilla with chicken, a little sauce, and some cheese, then carefully tuck and seal the edges together. Continue filling and rolling until all tortillas are done.

 Baking the Enchiladas:

 • Cover the assembled enchiladas with additional sauce and sprinkle plenty of cheese on top. Bake covered in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 20 minutes. Then uncover, raise the temp to 400°F (205°C), and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese melts and starts browning slightly.

Total Cooking Time: Around 1 Hour 15 Minutes

This includes prep work, active cooking, and waiting periods. From beginning to end, expect about 1 hour and 15 minutes of effort, including cooling and plating.

Once you’ve mastered this timeline, you’ll create mouthwatering Chicken Enchiladas every single time! Enjoy!

Temperature Guide for Perfect Chicken Enchiladas

Creating exceptional Chicken Enchiladasinvolves precision when it comes to temperatures. Each stage of the cooking process demands specific heat levels to achieve optimal results. Below, I’ll break down exactly what you’re looking for during each phase:

Step 1: Pan-Frying the Chicken

For searing the sliced chicken fillets, aim for high heat:

 • Temperature: Medium-high (around 375°F / 190°C)

 • Goal: Quickly sear the exterior to lock in moisture and prevent the meat from becoming too dry.

 • Timeframe: 5-7 minutes total, flipping halfway through.

If you notice the chicken sticking or burning, lower the heat slightly.

Step 2: Simmering the Enchilada Sauce

When combining the ingredients for the enchilada sauce, keep the heat moderate:

 • Temperature: Low-Medium (about 200°F / 93°C)

 • Goal: Allow the flavors to meld slowly, thickening the sauce without boiling vigorously.

 • Timeframe: 10-15 minutes, occasionally stirring to avoid scorching.

Simmering under controlled conditions prevents separation or curdling of dairy products in the sauce.

Step 3: Baking the Enchiladas

After assembly, enchiladas require two distinct stages of baking:

 • Initial Baking (Covered):

 • Temperature: Moderate Oven (375°F / 190°C)

 • Goal: Steam and heat the contents thoroughly, melting the cheese and warming the tortillas.

 • Timeframe: 20 minutes.

 • Final Browning (Uncovered):

 • Temperature: High Oven (400°F / 205°C)

 • Goal: Caramelize the cheese and develop attractive coloration.

 • Timeframe: Additional 5-10 minutes.

Using these precise temperatures ensures even cooking throughout the layers while achieving an appetizing appearance.

Serving Recommendations

Before serving, let the baked enchiladas stand for 5 minutes to set the interior structure. Top with freshly chopped cilantro, sour cream, or salsa verde for added zest.

Mastering these temperatures guarantees consistently delicious results every time you whip up Chicken Enchiladas. 

Calorie Count for Chicken Enchiladas

Understanding the nutritional content of dishes helps balance meals and maintain dietary goals. Let’s explore the calorie count for typical homemade Chicken Enchiladas:

Calories Per Serving

A standard portion of Chicken Enchiladas typically consists of 2-3 rolled tortillas, which provides roughly 400-500 calories. However, exact values depend heavily on individual ingredient choices and portion sizes.

Here’s a closer look at major contributing factors:

Ingredient

• Typical Calories
• Corn Tortillas~100-150/each
• Shredded Chicken~120-150/serving
• Monterey Jack Cheese~100-120/ounce
• Tomato-Based Sauce~50-70/cup
• Olive Oil~120/tblspn

Thus, for a complete meal consisting of three enchiladas plus additional toppings like sour cream (50cals) or guacamole (70cals), the caloric intake could reach 600-700 calories.

Healthy Alternatives

To lower the overall calorie count, try these adjustments:

 • Use whole-grain or vegetable-based tortillas instead of traditional white flour ones.

 • Substitute full-fat cheeses with reduced-fat versions.

 • Incorporate more vegetables (like bell peppers or spinach) to increase fiber and nutrients.

 • Reduce butter/oil usage where possible.

These tweaks can bring the total calories down to approximately 350-450 per serving, offering a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor.

In conclusion, while Chicken Enchiladas are indulgent, understanding their composition allows for informed decisions regarding diet plans and enjoyment alike.

Spice Up Your Chicken Enchiladas

Adding the right combination of spices elevates ordinary Chicken Enchiladas into a fiery and fragrant culinary experience. Here’s a list of essential spices commonly used in this iconic Mexican dish, along with suggestions on how to incorporate them effectively:

Core Spices for Authentic Flavor

 • Ground Cumin (Comino)

 • A staple in Latin American cuisine, imparts earthy notes and warmth.

 • Usage Tip: Toast cumin seeds first for enhanced aromatics.

 • Dried Oregano (Orégano Seco)

 • Adds herbal complexity reminiscent of Mediterranean influences.

 • Variety Note: Greek oregano offers stronger intensity compared to Mexican varieties.

 • Chili Powder (Polvo de Chile)

 • Blends smoky red chiles, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder.

 • Level Adjustment: Start milder and adjust according to preference.

• Garlic Powder (Pólvora de Ajo)

 • Enhances savory depth without overwhelming natural flavors.

 • Storage Hint: Keep stored away from humidity for longer shelf life.

 • Onion Powder (Cebolla en Polvo)

 • Intensifies umami-like qualities similar to real onions.

 • Complementary Pairing: Best paired with cumin and garlic powders.

 • Mexican Chocolate (Chocolate Mexicano)

 • Traditionally found in mole sauces, adds subtle bitter-sweet hints.

 • Optional Extras: Mix with sugar and cinnamon for nuanced sweetness.

 • Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce (Chipotles en Adobo)

 • Smoked jalapeños provide smoky-spicy character.

 • Dosage Warning: Beginners might want to halve recommended amounts initially.

 • Cayenne Pepper (Pimienta de Cayena)

 • Hotter cousin of chili powder, delivers intense heat.

 • Gradual Introduction: Test tolerance before committing larger quantities.

Additional Accents for Depth

Other complementary herbs/spices include:

 • Black peppercorns (Piper negro)

 • Bay leaf (Hoja de laurel)

 • Paprika (Pimentón)

 • Anise seed (Anís)

 • Allspice (Pimienta gorda)

Mixing different blends creates unique variations, catering specifically to personal preferences. Feel free to experiment, keeping balance between dominant and secondary spices for harmonious results.

So there you have it—a comprehensive guideline to transforming plain Chicken Enchiladas into bold, flavorful creations!

What to Serve with Chicken Enchiladas

Chicken Enchiladas are versatile and pair wonderfully with various accompaniments. Whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a casual family dinner, here are some classic and creative options to complement your main course:

Classic Side Dishes

 • Refried Beans (Frijoles Refritos)

 • Creamy mashed beans offer protein-rich contrast to the spicy enchiladas.

 • Spanish Rice (Arroz Mexicano)

 • Bright orange rice cooked with tomatoes, onions, and spices enhances textures and colors.

 • Guacamole

 • Smooth avocado dip brings freshness and creaminess, balancing heat from the enchiladas.

 • Salsa Verde/Fresca

 • Tangy tomatillo-based sauce or chunky tomato-cilantro salsa cuts through richness.

 • Corn Salad (Elotes)

 • Grilled or boiled corn kernels tossed with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, and lime juice.

 • Tostadas

 • Crispy fried tortillas topped with refried beans, lettuce, cheese, and sour cream.

 • Black Bean Soup (Sopa de Frijoles Negros)

 • Hearty soup providing warmth and comfort alongside hearty enchiladas.

 • Quesadillas

 • Simple cheese-filled tortillas griddled crispy, adding variety to the spread.

Creative Options

 • Roasted Vegetable Medley

 • Roast colorful veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and squash for a healthier option.

 • Avocado Crema

 • Blend avocados with yogurt or sour cream for a tangy, luscious dressing.

 • Mexican Street Corn Dressing

 • Make a vibrant salad using corn kernels mixed with lime juice, cilantro, and crumbled Cotija cheese.

 • Spinach Salad with Lime Vinaigrette

 • Refreshing greens dressed simply with lime juice, honey, and olive oil.

 • Grilled Pineapple Skewers

 • Sweet pineapple chunks brushed with lime-honey glaze counterbalance spiciness.

 • Habanero Margaritas

 • Kick off the meal with spicy alcoholic drinks for an elevated dining experience.

With these ideas, there’s no limit to creating memorable meals centered around delicious Chicken Enchiladas!

Stylish Presentation Ideas for Chicken Enchiladas

Presenting food beautifully isn’t only about aesthetics—it also enhances diners’ sensory experiences. With the right techniques, Chicken Enchiladas can become showstoppers on any table. Follow these steps for elegant plate presentation:

Plate Selection

Choose plates with clean lines or neutral shades to highlight the vibrant colors of the enchiladas. White porcelain plates often act as blank canvases, emphasizing bright accents like salsas and garnishes.

Layering Technique

 • Base Layer:Arrange enchiladas snugly against each other in the center of the plate. Ensure they fit neatly without overlapping excessively.

• Middle Layer:Drizzle generous portions of smooth enchilada sauce over the stacked rolls. This gives moisture and visual appeal.

 • Topping Layer:Generously scatter shredded cheese over the top, allowing it to melt attractively during reheating. For added luxury, finish with dollops of sour cream or a queso fresco crumble.

Garnishing Tips

 • Herbs: Finely chop fresh cilantro or parsley leaves and sprinkle liberally over the finished dish. These herbaceous flecks add brightness and freshness.

 • Spices: Micro-grate nutmeg or dust a pinch of paprika atop the cheese for an unexpected pop of color and scent.

 • Crunch Factor:Include crushed tortilla chips or slivered radishes around the perimeter of the plate for textural interest.

 • Accompaniments: Serve miniature bowls of salsa, guacamole, or pickled jalapeños next to the main plate for interactive dipping fun.

Artistic Elements

Create intricate patterns using sauces or drizzles, perhaps forming concentric circles or swirls radiating outward from the central stack. Or opt for minimalist symmetry by arranging items symmetrically around the focal point.

Final Touch

Lightly mist the entire arrangement with fresh lime juice or vinegar spray to enhance acidity and aromas. This finishing touch ties together diverse flavors harmoniously.

Following these guidelines transforms humble Chicken Enchiladas into stunning works of art, sure to impress even discerning palates!

Varieties of Chicken Enchiladas Recipes

Enchiladas come in many forms, each offering unique twists on traditional recipes. Below are five popular styles inspired by regional cuisines, dietary preferences, and cultural adaptations:

1. Classic Red Enchiladas

Traditional version featuring roasted red chile sauce poured over chicken-stuffed tortillas. Often served with black beans, Spanish rice, and sour cream.

Key Characteristics: Rich, robust flavor profile.

2. Green Enchiladas (“Suizas”)

Made with green tomatillo-based salsa verde, resulting in tangy, bright flavors. Commonly accompanied by avocado or queso fresco.

Key Characteristics: Fresh, acidic, refreshing.

3. Buffalo Style Enchiladas

Infused with buffalo wing-style hot sauce, blue cheese dressing, and celery sticks. Offers a modern twist with familiar bar-food inspiration.

Key Characteristics: Bold, spicy, decadent.

4. Vegan Enchiladas

Plant-based version substituting animal proteins with plant-derived alternatives like jackfruit, mushrooms, or lentils. Uses cashew-based cheese and vegan-friendly tortillas.

Key Characteristics: Nutritious, environmentally friendly, accessible to all diets.

5. Caribbean-Inspired Jerk Enchiladas

Seasoned with jerk spices (allspice, thyme, Scotch bonnet peppers), giving a tropical flair to the usual Tex-Mex fare.

Key Characteristics: Zesty, aromatic, exotic.

Each variation caters to varying tastes and occasions, proving versatility beyond borders. Experiment freely to discover new favorites among friends and family!

15 FAQs About Chicken Enchiladas Recipes