Description

Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure that takes you straight to the heart of Mexico with these mouthwatering Mexican Green Chile, Chicken, and Cheese Enchiladas. This dish is a celebration of vibrant flavors, featuring tender chicken enveloped in soft tortillas, smothered in a zesty green chile sauce, and topped with gooey cheese. The origins of enchiladas can be traced back to ancient Aztec cuisine, where tortillas were filled with various ingredients, creating a satisfying and portable meal. What makes this recipe special is its balance of spice and comfort, making it perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even cozy nights in. With a little preparation and love, you can create a dish that not only delights the palate but also warms the heart. Plus, they're surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks! Let’s dive into the details and create a plate of enchiladas that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• For the Enchiladas:
• Two cups cooked, shredded chicken
• Eight corn tortillas
• One cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• One cup shredded cheddar cheese
• One tablespoon vegetable oil
• For the Green Chile Sauce:
• One medium onion, finely chopped
• Two cloves garlic, minced
• Four cups fresh tomatillos, husked and quartered
• One can (4 ounces) diced green chiles
• One teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• One tablespoon lime juice
• One cup chicken broth
• For Garnishing:
• Chopped fresh cilantro
• Sour cream
• Sliced jalapeños

Preparation Method

Start by preparing your green chile sauce, which will be the delicious base for your enchiladas. In a large saucepan over medium heat, add a tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, toss in the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes soft and translucent, which usually takes about five minutes. While the onion is cooking, you can prepare the garlic. When the onion is ready, add the minced garlic cloves to the pan, stirring frequently to avoid burning, and cook for an additional minute. The aroma should be heavenly by now!

Next, add the quartered tomatillos to the saucepan. If you’ve never used tomatillos before, they’re a staple in Mexican cuisine, with a tangy flavor that adds brightness to any dish. Continue to cook for about eight to ten minutes, until they soften and break down slightly. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once the tomatillos are tender, add the diced green chiles, ground cumin, salt, and pepper, and mix well.

Now, it’s time to combine all the ingredients in the saucepan. Pour in one cup of chicken broth to help the sauce blend beautifully. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to bubble for about five minutes. Then, remove the saucepan from heat, and carefully transfer the contents to a blender. Blend until smooth, and then add the lime juice for a burst of freshness. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, blend it for less time or leave some small pieces intact. Taste your sauce, adjusting the seasoning as necessary, and set it aside.

Now let’s prepare the enchiladas. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s nice and hot when it’s time to bake. Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or a bit of oil. This will prevent the enchiladas from sticking.

Take each corn tortilla and warm them slightly in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This step is crucial! Warming the tortillas makes them pliable and prevents them from tearing when you fill them. Alternatively, you can wrap a stack of tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave them for about 30 seconds.

Now it’s time for the fun part – assembling your enchiladas! Grab a warmed tortilla and place a generous amount of shredded chicken down the center. Follow this by adding a spoonful of your green chile sauce and a sprinkle of cheese. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place it seam side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat this process until all the tortillas are filled and arranged in the dish. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect; the beauty of homemade cooking is in its rustic charm.

Once all the enchiladas are in the dish, pour the remaining green chile sauce over the top evenly. Make sure every enchilada is generously coated, as this will keep them moist during baking. Finally, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top for that irresistible, melty finish.

Slide the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the sauce is simmering around the edges. While they bake, your kitchen will be filled with an enticing aroma that will have everyone eagerly anticipating dinner.

Once the enchiladas are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This brief cooling period allows the cheese to set slightly, making for easier serving. While they cool, this is the perfect time to prepare your garnishes. Chop a handful of fresh cilantro and slice some jalapeños for those who enjoy an extra kick. You can also set out sour cream, which adds a lovely creaminess to the dish.

Using a spatula, carefully transfer the enchiladas to serving plates, spooning extra sauce over the top if desired. Garnish with cilantro, jalapeño slices, and a dollop of sour cream for a beautiful presentation. Your Mexican Green Chile, Chicken, and Cheese Enchiladas are now ready to be enjoyed!

Tips and Conclusion

For a delightful side dish, consider serving your enchiladas with a simple Mexican rice or a fresh avocado salad. If you want to switch things up, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the chicken with black beans or sautéed veggies like bell peppers and zucchini. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, and they'll still taste fantastic!



Preparing Mexican Green Chile, Chicken, and Cheese Enchiladas is not just about cooking; it's about creating a warm, inviting experience that brings family and friends together. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful green chile sauce, and melted cheese wrapped in soft tortillas is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. We hope you enjoy every bite and find joy in the process of making this delightful dish. Don’t forget to explore our site for more delicious recipes like Chicken Tacos, Enchilada Casserole, or Homemade Guacamole that will complement your enchiladas perfectly. We encourage you to share this recipe with friends and family, inviting them into your kitchen adventures. Happy cooking!