Creamy Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas Deliciously Simple

January 12, 2026May 9, 2025 by Chef Tavio

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

To make creamy green chili chicken enchiladas, you will need:

– 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken

– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided

– 1 cup sour cream

– 1 can (10 oz) green chili enchilada sauce, plus extra for topping

– 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies, drained

– 8 small flour tortillas

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon ground cumin

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

– Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Optional Substitutions

You can swap some ingredients to fit your taste:

– Replace Monterey Jack cheese with cheddar or pepper jack for a bolder flavor.

– Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier option.

– Try corn tortillas instead of flour for a gluten-free version.

– If you like heat, add diced jalapeños or use spicy enchilada sauce.

Nutritional Information

These creamy enchiladas are satisfying. Each serving has:

– Calories: 450

– Protein: 27g

– Carbohydrates: 32g

– Fat: 24g

– Fiber: 2g

– Sodium: 800mg

This makes them a hearty meal option. Enjoy them with a side salad for balance!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheating the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps cook the enchiladas evenly. A hot oven gives the best results.

Preparing the Filling

In a medium bowl, mix 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken with the following:

– 1 cup sour cream

– 1 can (10 oz) green chili enchilada sauce

– 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies, drained

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon ground cumin

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Add half of the 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese to the bowl. Stir until it’s creamy and well combined. This filling is the heart of your enchiladas.

Rolling the Tortillas

Take an 8-inch flour tortilla and spoon in about 1/3 cup of the chicken mixture. Roll it tightly, tucking in the sides as you go. Place the rolled tortilla seam-side down in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Repeat this for all tortillas. You want to fit them snugly in the dish.

Baking the Enchiladas

Once all the tortillas are rolled and in the baking dish, pour any leftover green chili enchilada sauce over the enchiladas. This adds moisture and flavor. Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack cheese on top.

Now, place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for bubbling sauce and melted cheese with a golden hue. After baking, let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the filling set. Before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro on top for a burst of flavor. Enjoy your creamy enchiladas warm!

Tips & Tricks

Enhancing Flavor

To boost the taste of your creamy green chili chicken enchiladas, use fresh spices. Replace garlic powder with fresh minced garlic for a stronger flavor. You can also add more diced green chilies for extra heat. Consider mixing in some lime juice. The acidity brightens the dish and makes it more vibrant.

Perfecting the Presentation

You want your enchiladas to look as good as they taste. After baking, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for color. A dollop of sour cream on each plate adds creaminess. Serve with a wedge of lime for a pop of freshness. Arrange your enchiladas in a neat line for a polished look.

Time-Saving Methods

Cooking can take time, but there are ways to save it. Use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own. This cuts down on prep time. You can also prepare your filling a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge. When you’re ready, roll and bake your enchiladas. This method makes dinner quick and easy!

Variations

Vegetarian Options

You can make these enchiladas vegetarian. Replace the chicken with cooked black beans or roasted vegetables. I love using zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Mix them with the sour cream and green chili sauce. This gives you a creamy and tasty filling. You can also add some corn for a sweet crunch.

Spicy Twist Ideas

Want to spice things up? Add jalapeños or diced chipotle peppers to the filling. You can also use a spicier green chili sauce. If you like heat, try adding a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mix. This will give your enchiladas a fiery kick. Just remember to balance the heat with some cooling toppings like sour cream.

Different Cheese Choices

Cheese makes these enchiladas creamy and rich. While Monterey Jack is great, you can try other cheeses too. Pepper Jack adds a nice kick, and cheddar gives a bold flavor. If you want something different, consider using queso fresco for a crumbly texture. Mixing different cheeses can add depth and make your enchiladas more exciting.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To store leftovers, first cool the enchiladas. Place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to enjoy them later, freezing is a great option.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to eat, reheat the enchiladas. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the enchiladas in a baking dish. Cover them with foil to keep moisture in. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warm. You can also use the microwave. Heat for one to two minutes, checking every 30 seconds.

Freezing Tips

To freeze, wrap each enchilada tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge. Then, follow the reheating instructions. Enjoy your creamy green chili chicken enchiladas later!

FAQs

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Yes, you can use corn tortillas. They add a great flavor. They are also gluten-free. Just warm them slightly to prevent cracking. This makes them easier to roll.

How do I make the enchiladas spicier?

To make the enchiladas spicier, add jalapeños. You can mix diced jalapeños into the filling. Another option is to use a spicier enchilada sauce. Choose sauces labeled “hot” or “spicy.” You can also sprinkle chili powder into the mixture for extra heat.

What can I serve with creamy green chili chicken enchiladas?

These enchiladas pair well with many sides. Consider serving them with Mexican rice. A fresh garden salad adds a nice crunch. You can also serve black beans or corn on the side. For a fun twist, add some guacamole or sour cream on top.

This blog post covered how to make creamy green chili chicken enchiladas. You learned about essential ingredients, different cooking steps, and helpful tips. We explored variations to fit your taste and ways to store leftovers. I hope you feel inspired to try this dish at home. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make it your own. Enjoy the process and savor the delicious result