Creamy Green Chile Enchiladas are a comforting dish that many people adore. I remember the first time I had them at a friend’s house. The warm, cheesy goodness filled my mouth with flavors that made me smile. The way the creamy filling contrasts with the spicy green chiles is simply delicious. People love this recipe because it’s not only yummy but also easy to make. Whether you’re having a quiet weekday dinner or hosting friends, Creamy Green Chile Enchiladas will surely impress.
These enchiladas are worth trying because they are rich and full of flavor. They give you that cozy feeling of home-cooked meals and make any dinner feel special. Plus, they come together in no time, and who doesn’t love that? They are packed with ingredients that blend together to create something magical.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Creamy Green Chile Enchiladas. First, let’s talk about how simple they are. You use rotisserie chicken, which saves a lot of cooking time. This makes it an ideal dish for busy families or anyone looking for a quick meal after a long day. Everything comes together in one dish, making cleanup a breeze too.
The ingredients are straightforward and easy to find. You may already have many in your kitchen. The flavor combo of creamy cheese and tangy salsa verde is mouth-watering. The crunchy tortillas provide a great texture. As you bake these enchiladas, your kitchen will fill with the irresistible scent of melting cheese and roasted green chiles.
This recipe is great for families. You can involve your kids in the rolling of the enchiladas, making it a fun activity. Plus, it’s a lovely dish for gatherings; everyone can enjoy a taste of something scrumptious. Making these enchiladas can also give you a chance to share a meal and make memories with loved ones.
How to Make Creamy Green Chile Enchiladas
Making Creamy Green Chile Enchiladas is quite easy and enjoyable. You start by gathering all your ingredients and then preparing the filling. The sensation of mixing creamy sour cream, whipped cream cheese, and warm chicken is delightful. You will love how the cheese melts and blends into the filling.
Next, you lay out the tortillas and fill them with the chicken mixture, rolling them up tightly. Imagine the satisfaction as you place the enchiladas seam-side down in the baking dish. The aroma warms your heart even before they’re baked.
Once they’re rolled up nicely, you pour salsa verde mixed with green chiles over them. The bright green sauce brings color and a kick of flavor that’s hard to resist. Topping it off with more cheese will make it even better.
Finally, you bake the enchiladas until golden and bubbly. When you take them out of the oven, you can feel the joy of creating something special. Garnishing with fresh cilantro before serving adds a lovely touch. You will find that each bite is creamy, cheesy, and perfectly spiced.
Ingredients
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2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
(This chicken is tender and juicy, making your meal quick and easy.) -
1/3 cup sour cream
(Adds creaminess and a slight tang, balancing all the flavors wonderfully.) -
2 tablespoons whipped cream cheese
(Boosts the richness and adds a smooth texture that helps bind the filling.) -
1 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided
(Provides melty cheesiness, making every bite luxurious and gooey.) -
1/2 cup chopped white or yellow onion
(Gives a sweet and slightly crunchy bite that complements the creaminess.) -
2 cloves garlic, minced
(Adds an aromatic flavor, bringing warmth and depth to the dish.) -
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped, divided
(Offers a fresh, herbaceous taste that brightens the meal.) -
2 teaspoons avocado or olive oil
(Helps to sauté any veggies or adds moisture if needed in cooking.) -
1 cup salsa verde
(Adds a zesty and slightly spicy kick that enhances all the flavors.) -
4 oz green chiles
(Gives a mild heat and pop of flavor, contributing to the enchilada experience.) -
4 flour tortillas (6-inch)
(These are soft and easy to roll, providing a perfect base for holding everything together.)
Directions
-
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
This temperature will ensure your enchiladas cook evenly and the cheese melts beautifully. -
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sour cream, whipped cream cheese, 1/2 cup of Colby Jack cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, and half of the cilantro.
Be gentle while mixing. You want everything to combine without overmixing. Just fold it all together until it looks creamy and delicious. -
Lay a tortilla flat and spoon a portion of the chicken mixture onto the center.
Aim for about a third of a cup so there’s enough filling without overstuffing. -
Roll the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
The seam should face the bottom so they don’t unravel. Repeat this with the remaining tortillas. -
In a small bowl, mix the salsa verde with green chiles and pour over the rolled enchiladas.
Make sure to cover them completely. You want each enchilada to soak in that vibrant salsa flavor. -
Top with the remaining Colby Jack cheese.
Don’t be shy with this; sprinkle it generously for that glorious cheesy finish. -
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Keep an eye on them towards the end. The kitchen will smell heavenly! -
Garnish with the remaining cilantro before serving.
This adds freshness and color that makes the dish look even more inviting.
How to Serve Creamy Green Chile Enchiladas
Creamy Green Chile Enchiladas are perfect for various occasions. They make an excellent weeknight dinner, especially when you want something comforting and quick. Try serving them with a simple side salad or some Mexican-style rice to make it a full meal.
For special gatherings or dinner parties, pair them with homemade guacamole and tortilla chips. A refreshing drink like iced tea or a light lemonade complements the meal beautifully. These enchiladas can also be a unique dish for weekend brunch, especially if you add a side of scrambled eggs.
How to Store Creamy Green Chile Enchiladas
Leftovers are just as delicious as the first serving! Store any uneaten enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Before freezing, slice into individual servings for easy reheating later. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to three months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to eat, you can thaw them in the fridge overnight and then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also use the microwave; just check to ensure they’re evenly heated but don’t overdo it, or you might dry them out.
Tips to Make Creamy Green Chile Enchiladas
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Use quality ingredients. Fresh vegetables and shredded cheese can elevate your dish. If you can, shred your cheese at home for better melting.
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Don’t overmix the filling. This keeps it creamy and prevents toughness. Gently fold the ingredients until they are just combined.
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Adjust spice levels. If you like it spicier, add more green chiles or some diced jalapeños to the filling.
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Let the enchiladas cool a bit before serving. This makes it easier to cut and serves, allowing the cheese to set a little.
Variation
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Vegetarian Option: Substitute the shredded chicken with black beans or grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. You can also add more cheese for protein and flavor.
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Gluten-Free Version: Use corn tortillas instead of flour ones. They might break more easily, so be gentle when rolling.
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Dairy-Free Alternative: Replace sour cream and cream cheese with dairy-free substitutes like cashew cream or coconut yogurt. Use dairy-free cheese for the topping to make it fit any dietary needs.
FAQs
Q: Can I make Creamy Green Chile Enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the enchiladas a day in advance. Prepare them, place them in the baking dish, but don’t bake them. Cover and refrigerate them. When you are ready to eat, bake them covered for about 15 minutes, then uncover and bake normally.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat it?
For reheating, the oven is best to keep the tortillas crispy. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed throughout—about 15 minutes. If using the microwave, reheat in short intervals to avoid drying them out.
Q: Can I use a different cheese or flour?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any cheese you enjoy, such as Monterey Jack or Cheddar. For the tortillas, corn tortillas are a great gluten-free option as well.
With this guide, you’ll not only create delicious Creamy Green Chile Enchiladas but also build memories around the dinner table. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish!
Print
Creamy Green Chile Enchiladas
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
Delicious and comforting enchiladas filled with shredded chicken, cream cheese, and topped with salsa verde and cheese.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons whipped cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup chopped white or yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped, divided
- 2 teaspoons avocado or olive oil
- 1 cup salsa verde
- 4 oz green chiles
- 4 flour tortillas (6-inch)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sour cream, whipped cream cheese, 1/2 cup of Colby Jack cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, and half of the cilantro.
- Lay a tortilla flat and spoon a portion of the chicken mixture onto the center.
- Roll the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix the salsa verde with green chiles and pour it over the rolled enchiladas.
- Top with the remaining Colby Jack cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with the remaining cilantro before serving.
Notes
These enchiladas are great for families and can be a fun activity for kids. Leftovers can be stored for up to three days in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: enchiladas, creamy, green chile, Mexican cuisine, easy meal