Amazing Green Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

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Green Chicken Enchiladas have a special place in my heart, reminding me of cozy family dinners and the vibrant flavors of Mexico. I remember the first time I tried making them myself, aiming for that perfect balance of tangy salsa verde and creamy, cheesy chicken. The aroma filling my kitchen was incredible, a mix of roasted tomatillos and savory chicken. Now, I can confidently say my green chicken enchiladas are a hit every time, especially when I use a really good salsa verde chicken enchiladas sauce. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Green Chicken Enchiladas

You’re going to adore this recipe for so many reasons! Get ready for an explosion of flavor:

• The taste is absolutely divine – a perfect blend of tangy, creamy, and savory.
• Prep time is a breeze, clocking in at just 20 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights.
• It’s a healthier option than many other comfort foods, especially when you focus on the chicken enchiladas with green sauce.
• Budget-friendly ingredients make this a great meal that won’t break the bank.
• It’s incredibly family-friendly; even picky eaters usually devour these!
• The vibrant green sauce adds a beautiful color that’s as appealing as the taste.
• You get a fantastic meal experience with these chicken enchiladas with green sauce that feels gourmet but is so easy.
• It’s a satisfying yet not overly heavy main course.

Ingredients for Green Chicken Enchiladas

Gather these simple ingredients for a truly delicious meal. You’ll find that making your own tomatillo chicken enchiladas recipe is surprisingly straightforward! The key is to start with good quality ingredients. We’re using shredded chicken for ease, but feel free to cook and shred your own chicken breasts or thighs for an even more authentic touch.

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken – rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut!
• 1/2 cup sour cream – this adds a lovely creaminess to the filling.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro – for that essential fresh, herbaceous flavor.
• 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese – melts beautifully into the chicken mixture.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – just to enhance all the flavors.
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper – for a hint of spice.
• 1 (10 ounce) can enchilada sauce, green – the star of the show for that tangy kick!
• 8 corn tortillas – these are traditional and soak up the sauce wonderfully.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil – for softening the tortillas.
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese – for the bubbly topping.
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese – adds a nice sharp contrast.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro – for a final fresh garnish.

How to Make Green Chicken Enchiladas

Let’s get these delicious enchiladas in the oven! This easy green chicken enchilada recipe comes together quickly, filling your kitchen with amazing aromas. You’ll see just how simple it is to create a restaurant-quality meal right at home.

1. Step 1: First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and get it ready. This ensures everything cooks evenly for that perfect cheesy, bubbly top.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the 2 cups shredded cooked chicken, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper. Mix it all up until it’s well combined and creamy. This is your flavor-packed filling!
3. Step 3: Gently warm the 1 (10 ounce) can enchilada sauce, green in a small saucepan over low heat. You just want it warm enough to soften the tortillas, not boiling. The aroma of the tomatillos will start to fill your kitchen.
4. Step 4: Now, let’s soften those tortillas. Lightly fry each of the 8 corn tortillas in about 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil for roughly 10 seconds per side. They should be pliable, not crispy. This step is crucial for rolling without tearing.
5. Step 5: Dip each softened tortilla into the warm green enchilada sauce, making sure to coat both sides. This infuses them with that wonderful tangy flavor, a key part of this easy green chicken enchilada recipe.
6. Step 6: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture into the center of each saucy tortilla. Don’t overfill, or they’ll be hard to roll!
7. Step 7: Roll up the tortillas tightly and place them seam-side down in your prepared baking dish. This easy green chicken enchilada recipe makes assembly a breeze.
8. Step 8: Pour the remaining green enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled enchiladas.
9. Step 9: Sprinkle the top with the remaining 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese and 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
10. Step 10: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly. The edges should be slightly golden, and the sauce will be simmering beautifully.
11. Step 11: Garnish with the final 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro just before serving. Enjoy your amazing Green Chicken Enchiladas!

Pro Tips for the Best Green Chicken Enchiladas

Want to elevate your enchilada game? I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve that guarantee fantastic results every time. These tips will help make your Green Chicken Enchiladas truly shine!

• For the creamiest filling, make sure your sour cream and cheese are at room temperature before mixing with the chicken.
• Don’t skip softening the tortillas! A quick fry in oil makes them pliable and prevents tearing, which is key for a tidy presentation.
• If you like it spicier, add a finely minced jalapeño to the chicken mixture, seeds and all for extra heat.
• Using rotisserie chicken is a total time-saver, but cooking your own chicken breasts and shredding them allows you to control the seasoning perfectly.

What’s the secret to perfect salsa verde chicken enchiladas?

The secret to perfect salsa verde chicken enchiladas lies in the sauce and the filling. Ensure your green enchilada sauce is flavorful and not too watery. For the filling, a mix of shredded chicken, creamy sour cream, and melty cheese creates that irresistible combination that makes enchiladas verdes de pollo so popular. For more information on authentic Mexican cooking, you can explore resources like Mexico in My Kitchen.

Can I make green chicken enchiladas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be aware you might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge. For more tips on meal prepping, check out our homepage for related content.

How do I avoid common mistakes with chicken enchiladas with green sauce?

A common pitfall is overfilling the tortillas, which causes them to burst. Also, ensure your green enchilada sauce is warmed before dipping the tortillas; cold sauce won’t soften them properly. Finally, don’t overbake, or your chicken can dry out! If you have questions about our recipes or terms, please visit our contact us page.

Best Ways to Serve Green Chicken Enchiladas

These vibrant Green Chicken Enchiladas are a star on their own, but I love pairing them with simple, fresh sides to really make the meal sing. They’re so versatile, fitting perfectly with a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. For a truly delightful experience, consider serving them with a side of Mexican rice and some black beans. The fluffy rice soaks up any extra sauce, and the beans add a hearty, earthy balance.

If you’re aiming for something a bit lighter, a fresh avocado salad or a simple chopped salad with a lime vinaigrette is fantastic. And for those who love a creamy counterpoint, you can’t go wrong with a dollop of Mexican crema or some homemade guacamole alongside. These accompaniments really enhance the rich flavors of the enchiladas, making it a complete and satisfying meal, especially when you’re craving those creamy green chicken enchiladas. For more about our commitment to data privacy, please see our privacy policy.

Nutrition Facts for Green Chicken Enchiladas

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional highlights for these delicious Green Chicken Enchiladas, per serving. These estimates help you understand the makeup of this comforting Mexican-inspired dish. Remember that the exact values can vary slightly based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes.

• Calories: 420
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 750mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. You can learn more about our affiliate disclaimer here.

How to Store and Reheat Green Chicken Enchiladas

Leftover Green Chicken Enchiladas are a treasure, and knowing how to store and reheat them properly ensures they taste just as good the next day, or even weeks later! After you’ve enjoyed this delightful meal, let the enchiladas cool completely. This is super important to prevent condensation and sogginess in your storage containers. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container. For refrigeration, they’ll keep well for about 3 to 4 days. If you’re planning for longer storage, these enchiladas freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then add a layer of aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag.

When you’re ready to enjoy your stored Green Chicken Enchiladas again, reheating is simple. For refrigerated portions, you can gently warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight first. Alternatively, you can reheat directly from frozen in a covered oven-safe dish at 325°F (160°C) for about 30-40 minutes, or until heated through. Microwaving is also an option for a quick reheat, just use a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely. For information on our terms of use, please visit terms of use.

Frequently Asked Questions About Green Chicken Enchiladas

What makes these green chicken enchiladas so flavorful?

The flavor comes from a combination of the tangy green enchilada sauce, often made with tomatillos, and the creamy, cheesy chicken filling. My recipe uses simple ingredients like sour cream and Monterey Jack cheese to create a rich, satisfying taste that makes these green chicken enchiladas a family favorite.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for shredded chicken enchiladas verde?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut for making shredded chicken enchiladas verde. It’s already cooked and seasoned, saving you a significant amount of prep time. Just shred it and mix it with the other filling ingredients, and you’re good to go!

How do I make the green chicken enchiladas sauce from scratch?

For a homemade sauce, you’ll typically blend roasted tomatillos, onion, garlic, cilantro, and a chile pepper (like jalapeño or serrano) until smooth. Simmer this mixture with some chicken broth and seasonings until it thickens. While using canned green enchilada sauce is convenient, making it from scratch adds an incredible depth of flavor to your green chicken enchiladas.

What are some popular sides for green chicken enchiladas?

Classic pairings include Mexican rice, refried beans, or black beans. A fresh side salad with a lime vinaigrette or some sliced avocado also complements the richness of the enchiladas beautifully. These sides help balance the meal and add variety to your plate.

Variations of Green Chicken Enchiladas You Can Try

While this recipe is fantastic as is, don’t be afraid to get creative! Exploring variations can lead to new favorite ways to enjoy this classic dish. For a lighter take, you could swap the corn tortillas for whole wheat or even jicama wraps for a low-carb option. If you’re short on time, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a game-changer for making authentic green chicken enchiladas in a flash.

You can also play with the heat level by adjusting the type of chile pepper in your salsa verde or adding a pinch of cayenne to the chicken filling. For a richer, creamier experience, stir a bit of heavy cream or Mexican crema into your green enchilada sauce. These simple tweaks can transform your meal, offering different flavor profiles while staying true to the comforting essence of green chicken enchiladas. For more about me, please visit my about me page.

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