Irresistibly Creamy Queso Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever craved a dish that wraps comfort and flavor into one delightful bite? Creamy queso chicken enchiladas are the answer to that craving. Imagine perfectly cooked chicken, enveloped in soft tortillas, drenched in a rich and creamy cheese sauce that oozes with every bite. The combination of spices, textures, and aromas creates an enticing experience that’s hard to resist.

These enchiladas have been a family favorite for years, often making an appearance at gatherings, cozy dinners, or even busy weeknights when you need something satisfying yet easy to prepare. As I recall the first time I made them, the joy on my family’s faces as they savored each mouthful reminded me how food can bring us together. The creamy queso elevates these enchiladas to new heights, making them perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a casual get-together or a special celebration. Get ready for an unforgettable flavor experience!

Key Ingredients For Creamy Queso Chicken Enchiladas

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
• Tortillas: Flour tortillas work best for this recipe as they hold up well against the sauce.
• Queso Blanco Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture; look for fresh varieties for the best flavor.
• Fresh Cilantro: Adding some chopped cilantro provides a fresh burst of flavor; be sure to use it right before serving.
• Onion: A finely chopped onion will enhance the overall flavor profile of your filling.

For the Sauce:

• Cream Cheese: This is key for creating that smooth, creamy sauce that makes these enchiladas irresistible.
• Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and richness to the sauce; full-fat sour cream works best.
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while adding moisture and flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Creamy Queso Chicken Enchiladas

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step : Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, prepare a baking dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray.

Second Step : Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil and cook the boneless chicken breasts until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove from heat and let cool before shredding.

Third Step : Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with chopped onion and half of the queso blanco cheese until well combined. This mixture will be wrapped within your tortillas.

Fourth Step : Assemble the Enchiladas

Spoon a portion of the chicken mixture into each tortilla, roll them tightly, and place them seam-side down in your prepared baking dish.

Fifth Step : Make the Sauce

In a separate saucepan over low heat, combine cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, and remaining queso blanco cheese. Stir until melted and smooth; pour this luscious sauce over the assembled enchiladas.

Sixth Step : Bake

Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. Remove foil for an additional 10 minutes to allow the top to crisp up slightly.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Shred Chicken Easily: To save time, use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment to shred cooked chicken quickly.
• Add Spice if Desired: If you enjoy heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or chili powder to your chicken filling.
• Make Ahead Option: You can assemble these enchiladas ahead of time; just cover them tightly before refrigerating.

Cooking Instructions

To prepare Creamy Queso Chicken Enchiladas, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Begin by cooking the chicken in a skillet over medium heat. Once cooked through, shred the chicken and set it aside. In the same skillet, add diced onions and garlic, sautéing them until they become fragrant.

Next, pour in your favorite queso sauce and mix well. Combine the shredded chicken with the queso mixture, ensuring every piece is coated. Take flour tortillas and fill each one with the chicken mixture before rolling them up tightly. Place the rolled enchiladas in a greased baking dish.

Pour any remaining queso sauce over the top of the enchiladas. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Allow them to cool slightly before serving for optimal flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Queso Chicken Enchiladas taste best when topped with fresh ingredients such as:

• Chopped cilantro – Adds freshness and enhances flavors.
• Diced avocado – Provides creaminess that complements the dish perfectly.
• Sour cream – A classic topping that balances out the spice.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers of Creamy Queso Chicken Enchiladas, store them in an airtight container in your refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the enchiladas. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Creamy Queso Chicken Enchiladas contains a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats making it a satisfying meal option. The use of chicken provides lean protein while queso sauce offers creamy goodness without excess additives if you select natural varieties.

Pairing these enchiladas with a side salad can enhance their nutritional profile further by adding fiber and vitamins from various vegetables. Always consider adjusting portion sizes based on dietary needs.

FAQs

What are the main ingredients in Creamy Queso Chicken Enchiladas?

The main ingredients for Creamy Queso Chicken Enchiladas include shredded chicken, flour tortillas, cheese sauce typically made from queso, diced onions, garlic, and optional toppings like cilantro or avocados. These components come together to create a flavorful dish that highlights Mexican cuisine’s richness.

Can I make Creamy Queso Chicken Enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare Creamy Queso Chicken Enchiladas ahead of time by assembling them in advance but holding off on baking until you’re ready to serve. Store them covered in the fridge for up to two days before baking. This makes it convenient for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?

If you’re looking for alternatives to chicken in Creamy Queso Chicken Enchiladas, consider using shredded beef or pulled pork for different flavors and textures. Additionally, for a vegetarian option, replace meat with black beans or sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers and zucchini which also pair wonderfully with queso sauce.

How spicy are these Creamy Queso Chicken Enchiladas?

The spice level of Creamy Queso Chicken Enchiladas largely depends on the type of queso sauce used. If you prefer milder flavors, opt for a mild cheese sauce or add only small amounts of spices like chili powder or jalapeños to taste. Adjusting levels allows everyone to enjoy this delicious meal!

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Creamy Queso Chicken Enchiladas

• Author: jenny
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

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Description

Creamy Queso Chicken Enchiladas are the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken and gooey cheese wrapped in soft tortillas, all smothered in a luscious queso sauce. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal with minimal effort. With every bite, experience a delightful blend of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 8 flour tortillas
• 2 cups queso blanco cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Cook chicken in a skillet over medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side until golden brown; shred and set aside.
3. Mix shredded chicken with chopped onion and half of the queso blanco cheese.
4. Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
5. In a saucepan, combine cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, and remaining queso; stir until smooth.
6. Pour sauce over enchiladas and bake covered for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: For easier shredding, use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment. Add diced jalapeños to the filling for extra heat. Assemble enchiladas ahead of time and refrigerate before baking.