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Ultra Easy Shredded Chicken Enchiladas for Busy Weeknights

Close-up of three baked easy chicken enchiladas covered in melted orange cheese and red sauce.

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Make this family favorite Mexican dinner with minimal effort. This recipe for easy chicken enchiladas uses simple ingredients and comes together fast, making it perfect for quick dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
  • 1 (10 ounce) can red enchilada sauce
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 8 (8-inch) flour tortillas
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cumin, and garlic powder. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
  3. Warm the tortillas briefly in the microwave or a dry skillet to make them pliable. This prevents tearing when rolling.
  4. Pour about 1/4 cup of the enchilada sauce into the bottom of the prepared baking dish and spread it around.
  5. Take one warmed tortilla. Place about 1/4 cup of the seasoned chicken mixture down the center, sprinkle with a small amount of the mixed cheese, and roll it up tightly.
  6. Place the rolled enchilada seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling, arranging them snugly in a single layer.
  7. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas.
  8. Top the sauced enchiladas generously with the remaining shredded cheese blend.
  9. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is fully melted and lightly golden.
  10. Let the cheesy chicken enchiladas rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For a make ahead chicken enchiladas option, assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.
  • Serve with sour cream, chopped cilantro, or sliced avocado for added flavor.
  • If you prefer a white chicken enchiladas variation, substitute the red sauce with a creamy white sauce.

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