From Scratch: The Easiest Way To Make Chicken Enchiladas With Flour Tortillas

Craving a dish that combines the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine with the convenience of flour tortillas? Look no further than chicken enchiladas! This beloved Mexican dish is a symphony of tender chicken, aromatic spices, and melted cheese, all wrapped in soft and pliable flour tortillas. Follow our step-by-step guide and master the art of creating this delectable dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Gathering the Essential Ingredients

Before embarking on this culinary journey, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 12 flour tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• Sour cream, guacamole, and salsa for serving (optional)

Seasoning and Cooking the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to cool slightly.

Creating the Enchilada Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
3. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

Shredding the Chicken and Assembling the Enchiladas

1. Shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Place a flour tortilla in the dish and top with 1/4 cup of shredded chicken, 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese, and 1/4 cup of Monterey Jack cheese.
4. Roll up the tortilla tightly and place it seam side down in the baking dish.
5. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Baking the Enchiladas

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the enchiladas.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Finishing Touches and Serving

1. Remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
2. Garnish with shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, and sour cream.
3. Serve with guacamole, salsa, and any other desired toppings.

Variations and Substitutions

• Chicken: Feel free to use cooked rotisserie chicken for a time-saving option.
• Tortillas: Corn tortillas can be substituted for flour tortillas if desired.
• Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, Colby Jack, or pepper Jack.
• Sauce: To make a spicier enchilada sauce, add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
• Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Consider adding sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, or pickled onions.

Tips for Success

• Don’t overcook the tortillas: Overcooked tortillas will become dry and brittle, so be sure to remove them from the heat as soon as they are warm and pliable.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ingredients will enhance the flavor of your enchiladas. Use ripe tomatoes, freshly chopped onions, and aromatic garlic.
• Don’t skip the cooling step: Allowing the chicken to cool slightly before shredding will prevent it from becoming rubbery.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment: Enchiladas are a versatile dish that allows for endless variations. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to find your perfect combination.

The Perfect Meal for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a party, craving a comforting dinner, or simply want to impress your loved ones, chicken enchiladas with flour tortillas are the perfect dish. With their combination of bold flavors, tender chicken, and melted cheese, they’re sure to delight taste buds and create unforgettable memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make the enchiladas ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas up to 24 hours in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving.

Q: How can I make the enchiladas healthier?

A: Use whole-wheat tortillas instead of flour tortillas, reduce the amount of cheese, and add more vegetables to the filling.

Q: What can I do if my enchilada sauce is too spicy?

A: Add a little bit of sugar or honey to balance out the heat. You can also stir in some sour cream or Greek yogurt.