Green Enchiladas with Chicken {Enchiladas Verdes}

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, these Green Enchiladas with Chicken {Enchiladas Verdes} are just the ticket! This recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it brings everyone together around the table. The creamy filling and vibrant green sauce make for a delightful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, they’re easy to whip up, so you won’t be stuck in the kitchen for hours!

What makes this dish truly special is how customizable it is. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want some comforting leftovers, these enchiladas will satisfy your cravings while making your kitchen smell amazing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under 75 minutes!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cheesy enchiladas! They’re sure to become a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare them in advance and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat. Perfect for meal prep!
• Flavor Packed: The combination of chicken, creamy cheese, and zesty Salsa Verde creates a flavor explosion in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create a delicious dish. Let’s gather what we need for our Green Enchiladas with Chicken {Enchiladas Verdes}!

For the Enchiladas

• 8 flour tortillas (8) (warmed, or 12-16 corn tortillas if preferred)
• 1 lb. cooked chicken (~2 breasts or 2.5 cups chopped/shredded)
• 1 7oz. can mild green chiles, drained (I used fire roasted)
• 4 oz. cream cheese, room temperature
• 3-4 cups shredded cheese, of your choice (I used a blend of colby jack & mozzarella)
• Salt & pepper to taste (I used 1/2 tsp salt & 1/4 tsp pepper)
• 1/4 cup diced onion (optional add-in)

For the Sauce

• 1 batch homemade Salsa Verde
• 1 cup chicken broth (use only 1/4 cup broth if using store-bought Salsa Verde)
• 2 Tbsp olive oil

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: Instead of chicken, try shredded turkey or even black beans for a vegetarian option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some sautéed bell peppers or zucchini into the filling for extra nutrients and color.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack for a spicy kick or cheddar for a classic twist.
• Make it spicy: If you like heat, add diced jalapeños to the filling or use spicy green chiles.

How to Make Green Enchiladas with Chicken {Enchiladas Verdes}

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by mixing together your cooked chicken, cream cheese, drained green chiles, shredded cheese, and optional diced onion in a large bowl. Combining these ingredients creates a creamy filling that packs in flavor. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper—this step enhances all those yummy flavors!

Step 2: Warm Your Tortillas

Warm your flour tortillas in a skillet or microwave until they are pliable. This makes them easier to roll without cracking. Trust me; no one wants broken enchiladas!

Step 3: Roll It Up

Take about 1/3 cup of your filling and place it on each tortilla before rolling it up snugly. Place seam side down in a greased baking dish. This step helps keep everything secure while baking.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine your homemade Salsa Verde with chicken broth and olive oil. Cooking this mixture allows all those fresh flavors to meld together beautifully. It’s going to be the perfect topping for our enchiladas!

Step 5: Bake It All Together

Pour your sauce generously over the rolled enchiladas and sprinkle any remaining shredded cheese on top. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes. Removing the foil toward the end gives those cheesy tops an irresistible golden crust.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked, let them cool slightly before serving! Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, then dig in and enjoy these delightful Green Enchiladas with Chicken {Enchiladas Verdes} surrounded by friends and family!

Pro Tips for Making Green Enchiladas with Chicken {Enchiladas Verdes}

Making these Green Enchiladas is a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can take them to the next level!

• Use warm tortillas: Warming your tortillas makes them more pliable, preventing them from tearing while you fill and roll them. This small step can save you from a messy kitchen!
• Mix your cheeses: Combining different types of cheese not only enhances the flavor but also gives your enchiladas a wonderful texture. A blend of colby jack and mozzarella melts beautifully and adds creaminess.
• Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a bit of heat, consider using medium or hot green chiles, or add some diced jalapeños to the filling. This way, you can customize the dish to suit your taste!
• Don’t skimp on the sauce: Generously coating your enchiladas with salsa verde ensures they stay moist and flavorful during baking. Plus, it creates that deliciously gooey topping we all love.
• Let them rest before serving: Allowing your enchiladas to sit for about 5-10 minutes after baking helps them set up a bit, making them easier to serve and enjoy.

How to Serve Green Enchiladas with Chicken {Enchiladas Verdes}

Serving these Green Enchiladas is as fun as making them! With their vibrant colors and amazing flavors, they deserve a presentation that matches their deliciousness.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and color that brightens up the dish.
• Sour cream or yogurt: A dollop on top provides creaminess that complements the spiciness of the enchiladas beautifully.
• Sliced avocado: Creamy avocado slices add richness, making each bite even more satisfying.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with tomatoes and spices pairs perfectly with enchiladas, absorbing all those tasty flavors.
• Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans offer a hearty side that complements the dish’s textures while adding additional protein.
• Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad with lime dressing brings sweetness and crunch, balancing out the savory enchiladas wonderfully.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole not only serves as a delicious dip for chips but also enhances each bite of your enchiladas with its rich flavor.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re all set to wow your family and friends at dinner! Enjoy every cheesy, creamy bite of your homemade Green Enchiladas!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Green Enchiladas with Chicken are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade dish throughout the week. You can easily prepare them in advance and store them for later, making dinner time a breeze!

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap each enchilada tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• To reheat from the refrigerator, place enchiladas in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil.
• If reheating from frozen, allow extra time and check that they are heated all the way through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Green Enchiladas with Chicken.

Can I use store-bought Salsa Verde for my Green Enchiladas with Chicken?

Absolutely! Store-bought Salsa Verde can save time and still deliver great flavor. Just remember to adjust the chicken broth accordingly to avoid excess liquid.

What type of cheese is best for Green Enchiladas with Chicken?

A blend of cheeses works wonderfully! I recommend using colby jack and mozzarella for a creamy texture and rich flavor. Feel free to mix it up based on your preferences!

Can I make these enchiladas vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute the chicken with your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, and follow the same instructions for assembling and baking.

How spicy are these Green Enchiladas with Chicken?

The spice level can vary based on the green chiles used. Mild canned green chiles provide a gentle kick, while fresh chiles can be adjusted to your taste. Feel free to add more or less depending on your tolerance!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Green Enchiladas with Chicken! They’re not just a meal; they’re a comforting hug on a plate. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or enjoying them solo during a cozy night in, I’m sure they’ll become a favorite. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own—happy cooking!