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Spicy Chicken Enchiladas are a delightful twist on traditional Mexican fare, combining tender chicken, zesty spices, and gooey cheese all wrapped in soft tortillas. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a festive gathering. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, these enchiladas are sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step process to create these mouthwatering enchiladas!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your enchiladas will bake evenly and thoroughly.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, half of the enchilada sauce, diced onion, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Step 3: Fill the Tortillas
Take a tortilla and spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture into the center. Sprinkle a little shredded cheese on top of the filling. Roll the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese
Once all enchiladas are in the baking dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the sauce.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve hot with your favorite sides like rice or beans.
FAQs
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes! Leftover rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor to your enchiladas.
What can I use instead of enchilada sauce?
If you don’t have enchilada sauce, you can use salsa or a homemade mixture of tomato sauce with spices.
Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the enchiladas and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold from the fridge.
What toppings can I add to my Spicy Chicken Enchiladas?
Popular toppings include sour cream, avocado slices, jalapeños, and additional cheese. Feel free to customize based on your preferences!
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