Nothing beats the warmth and comfort of homemade Red Chicken Enchiladas. This delightful dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend gatherings, or even special occasions. With tender, shredded chicken enveloped in soft tortillas and smothered in zesty red enchilada sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will make any meal feel festive. Once you taste the savory blend of spices and gooey cheese, you’ll understand why this recipe has become a staple in many households, including mine!
Why you’ll love this dish
What makes Red Chicken Enchiladas so special? For starters, they’re incredibly quick to prepare and potently satisfying. This recipe is an excellent choice whether you’re managing a busy family schedule or hosting friends. The combination of shredded chicken, spicy enchilada sauce, and melted cheese creates a flavor explosion that appeals to kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s easily customizable, making it perfect for picky eaters.
"I made these Red Chicken Enchiladas for my family dinner, and they were a hit! Even my kids who usually shy away from anything with a hint of spice devoured them. I’ll definitely be making them again!" – Sarah R.
Step-by-step overview
Making Red Chicken Enchiladas is simple and requires minimal cooking skills. Here’s a brief rundown of how it all comes together:
- Preheat your oven to create the perfect baking environment.
- Combine shredded chicken with spices and sauce for a flavor-packed filling.
- Assemble your tortillas by rolling them up with the chicken mixture, onions, and cheese.
- Arrange them in a baking dish and top with more enchilada sauce and cheese, then bake until bubbly.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream for that extra creaminess!
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What you’ll need
Gather these items to whip up a batch of delicious Red Chicken Enchiladas:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup red enchilada sauce
- 8 flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to switch out the cheese for something different, or use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
Directions
Here’s how you can prepare your Red Chicken Enchiladas in just a few simple steps:
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial for achieving that perfectly melted cheese layer.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with red enchilada sauce, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well-mixed.
- Lay out your flour tortillas and spoon some of the chicken mixture into the center. Top it with a sprinkle of chopped onions and a bit of cheese before rolling them up.
- Place the rolled tortillas seam side down in a greased baking dish to keep them snug.
- Pour any remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle additional cheese for that bubbly finish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is delightfully bubbly and golden.
- Once done, serve hot and don’t forget to add a generous dollop of sour cream on top!
Best ways to enjoy it
Red Chicken Enchiladas can be served in various ways to elevate your meal. Try pairing them with sides like Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh salad for a complete dinner. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding toppings such as avocado slices, fresh cilantro, or sliced jalapeños for an extra kick. Serve them sizzling hot for a fun and festive dinner!
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your leftovers fresh, allow the enchiladas to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll last for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them — just make sure to wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe bags. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual servings for a quick meal.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are some pro tips to ensure your Red Chicken Enchiladas turn out perfect every time:
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor — it will save you time and enhance the taste.
- If you like it spicy, consider adding diced green chiles to the chicken mixture.
- For a richer flavor, try sautéing the onions before adding them to the enchiladas.
- Always cover your enchiladas with foil for the first part of baking to keep them moist, and uncover them toward the end to brown the cheese.
Creative twists
Feel like changing things up? Here are some variations for your Red Chicken Enchiladas:
- Swap out the chicken for ground beef, turkey, or even black beans for a vegetarian option.
- Experiment with different sauces — green enchilada sauce or a homemade tomatillo sauce can add a new layer of flavor.
- Try adding fresh veggies like bell peppers or zucchini into the mix for a nutritious boost.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare the Red Chicken Enchiladas?
Preparation and cooking time is approximately 45 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option.
Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble them a day in advance, cover, and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just allow for a few extra minutes in the oven for baking.
What should I do if I don’t have red enchilada sauce?
You can opt for green enchilada sauce, or even make your own using tomatoes, chili powder, and spices. This makes the dish flexible and adaptable to what you have on hand!
Feel free to unleash your creativity with this versatile dish, and enjoy the delicious results. Happy cooking!
