I have always loved Mexican food, and one dish that never fails to win my heart is the Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas. This dish is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s the perfect comfort food that brings the family together. Over the years, I have perfected my recipe and I am excited to share it with you.
Why I Love Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas
The first time I tried Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas, I was hooked. I remember sitting at a cozy restaurant, surrounded by friends, and devouring every last bite. The creamy filling combined with the tangy sauce was a match made in heaven. Since then, I have made it my mission to recreate that experience at home.
Ingredients for Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas
To make this recipe, you will need some basic ingredients. Here is what you will need:
Filling Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Enchilada Assembly:
- 8-10 flour tortillas
- 1 cup enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded cheese for topping
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
How to Make Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas
Making these enchiladas is easy and fun. Here’s how I do it step by step.
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, 1 cup of shredded cheese, salsa, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be creamy and flavorful.
Step 2: Assemble the Enchiladas
Take a tortilla and place a generous amount of the chicken filling in the center. Roll it up tightly and place it seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Repeat this process until all the tortillas are filled.
Step 3: Add Sauce and Cheese
Once all the enchiladas are in the baking dish, pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the sauce. This will create a deliciously cheesy topping as it bakes.
Step 4: Bake the Enchiladas
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Tips for Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas
Over the years, I have learned a few tricks to make my enchiladas even better. Here are my top tips:
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick and easy option, I often use rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds great flavor.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to add other ingredients like black beans or corn to the filling for added texture and flavor.
- Make it Spicy: If you love heat, use spicy salsa or add jalapeños to the filling.
- Homemade Enchilada Sauce: For the best flavor, consider making your own enchilada sauce. It’s easier than you think!
Serving Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas
Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas are delicious on their own, but I love to serve them with a few sides. Here are some ideas:
- Mexican Rice: The perfect complement to enchiladas. It adds a nice balance to the meal.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans are a classic side that pairs perfectly.
- Guacamole and Sour Cream: These toppings add freshness and creaminess to each bite.
- Fresh Salsa: Always a hit, fresh salsa adds a bright flavor contrast.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare in my house), here’s how to store them.
- Refrigerate: Place any leftover enchiladas in an airtight container. They will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze them, wrap the enchiladas tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to three months.
Reheating Tips
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, reheating them properly is important.
- In the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the enchiladas in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes.
- In the Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, checking to ensure they’re heated through.
Variations on Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas
This Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas recipe is versatile, and you can easily switch things up. Here are a few variations:
- Beef Enchiladas: Substitute shredded beef for the chicken for a hearty twist.
- Vegetarian Enchiladas: Use black beans and cheese for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Buffalo Chicken Enchiladas: Mix shredded chicken with buffalo sauce for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information
Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas are comforting, but it’s good to be mindful of nutrition. Here’s a rough idea of the nutritional content per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 400-450 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
Making Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas has become a cherished tradition in my home. This dish is not only delicious but also brings loved ones together. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a recipe that I will continue to make for years to come.