Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these cream cheese chicken enchiladas! Every time I make them, it feels like a warm hug wrapped in a tortilla. I remember the first time I tried a similar dish at a friend’s house; I was blown away by how creamy and flavorful they were. The combination of tender chicken and rich cream cheese, all smothered in salsa and melted cheese—wow! It’s comfort food at its finest. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something cozy. Just imagine the smell wafting through your kitchen as they bake, giving you that dreamy anticipation. Trust me, once you try these enchiladas, they’ll become a staple in your home too!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (You can use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut!)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (Let it sit out for a bit to make mixing easier!)
- 1 cup salsa (Choose your favorite kind—chunky, mild, or spicy!)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (I love using a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack!)
- 8 flour tortillas (Don’t worry if they tear a little; they’ll still taste amazing!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (Just a touch to keep things from sticking!)
- 1 teaspoon cumin (This adds a warm, earthy flavor that’s just perfect.)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (Because garlic makes everything better, right?)
- Salt and pepper to taste (Always adjust to your preference!)
How to Prepare Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas 2
Alright, let’s dive into making these creamy delights! I promise you, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be whipping them up in no time. Here’s how to make your own cream cheese chicken enchiladas:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures they bake perfectly while you’re prepping.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, salsa, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together until it’s creamy and well combined. Trust me, the aroma alone will get your taste buds tingling!
- Next, it’s time to warm those tortillas. I like to pop them in a skillet for just a minute on each side. This makes them super pliable and easy to roll without tearing. You’ll thank me later!
- Now, take a generous spoonful of that delicious chicken mixture and place it in the center of each tortilla. Roll them up tightly, like little gifts of flavor!
- Place your rolled enchiladas seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Don’t worry if they’re a little snug; they’ll be happy together!
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of your enchiladas, making sure to cover them all. Who doesn’t love extra cheese, right?
- Finally, slide them into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. You’ll want to keep an eye out for that melty goodness!
- Once they’re done, take them out and let them cool for a few minutes (if you can resist!). Serve hot and get ready for an explosion of creamy flavor!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation time—ready in just 40 minutes!
- Incredibly creamy texture, thanks to the cream cheese that melds beautifully with the chicken.
- Flavor-packed with a perfect balance of spices and salsa, making every bite delightful.
- Easy to customize—add beans, corn, or your favorite veggies for extra flair!
- Kid-friendly and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for family dinners or gatherings.
- Perfect for meal prep; leftovers heat up wonderfully for lunch the next day.
- Simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your cream cheese chicken enchiladas turn out perfect every time! Here are some of my favorite tips to elevate your dish:
- Experiment with cheeses: While I love a good cheddar and Monterey Jack blend, feel free to mix it up! Pepper Jack adds a nice kick, or you could go with a creamy queso for something different.
- Customize your salsa: The salsa you choose can really change the flavor profile. Try using a roasted salsa for a smoky taste or a fresh pico de gallo for a bright, zesty finish.
- Vegetable add-ins: Want to sneak in some veggies? Chopped bell peppers, onions, or even spinach can be mixed into the filling for extra nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them lightly first to soften them up!
- Make it spicy: If you like a little heat, consider adding diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture or drizzling some hot sauce on top before serving. Yum!
- Don’t skip the warming step: Warming the tortillas is key! It not only makes them easier to roll, but it also prevents them from cracking. Just a minute in a skillet or wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 15-20 seconds does the trick!
- Top it off: Once your enchiladas come out of the oven, consider garnishing with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream for that extra touch of deliciousness.
Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and finding what you love. These tips should guide you, but feel free to make this dish your own!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for these scrumptious cream cheese chicken enchiladas. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but this should give you a good idea:
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 25g
This dish is not only packed with flavor but also delivers a hearty dose of protein, making it a satisfying meal. Enjoy knowing you’re treating yourself to something that’s tasty and nourishing!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got a delicious batch of cream cheese chicken enchiladas ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside them to create a complete meal. Trust me, these enchiladas are fantastic on their own, but a little something extra can elevate your dining experience!
- Mexican Rice: A fluffy side of Mexican rice is a classic pairing. The subtle flavors of the rice complement the creamy enchiladas beautifully. You can use a simple recipe with tomatoes and spices or add some peas and carrots for a pop of color!
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans are another perfect match. They add extra protein and richness to your plate, plus they’re super easy to heat up from a can or prepare fresh with some spices.
- Fresh Salad: For a refreshing contrast, serve a crisp salad with a zesty lime vinaigrette. Think mixed greens, diced tomatoes, avocado, and a sprinkle of cheese. It adds a nice crunch and brightness to your meal!
- Guacamole and Sour Cream: Don’t forget the toppings! A side of guacamole and sour cream not only enhances the flavor but also adds creaminess that pairs perfectly with the enchiladas. It’s like a little flavor explosion in every bite!
- Grilled Corn: Charred grilled corn on the cob is another great addition. It brings a sweet and smoky element to the table that complements the spices in your enchiladas beautifully.
Feel free to mix and match these sides based on what you love or have on hand. The key is to create a balanced plate that highlights the creamy goodness of your enchiladas while adding some fun textures and flavors. Happy eating!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of cheese for these enchiladas?
Absolutely! While I love cream cheese for its rich texture, you can experiment with other cheeses. Try a blend of ricotta for creaminess or even a sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor. Just keep in mind that the texture might change a bit, but it’ll still be delicious!
What can I add to the filling for extra flavor?
If you want to jazz up your filling, consider adding sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even black beans for some extra protein and texture. You could also mix in some diced jalapeños if you like a bit of heat!
Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the enchiladas and assemble them in the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re coming straight from the fridge!
Are these cream cheese chicken enchiladas gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free flour tortillas, these enchiladas can be a fantastic gluten-free option. Just double-check the labels to make sure they’re certified gluten-free!
How do I store leftovers?
To store any leftovers, simply place the enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just pop them in the oven until heated through. So easy!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made these delicious cream cheese chicken enchiladas, and now you have some leftovers (if you can resist them all in one sitting!). Here’s how to store and reheat them so that they taste just as amazing the next day:
First, let your enchiladas cool down to room temperature. This helps avoid condensation in your storage container, which can make them a bit soggy. Once they’re cooled, transfer them to an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you want to save them for longer, you can freeze them! Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll be good for up to 2 months.
When it’s time to enjoy your enchiladas again, reheating is super easy! If you’re using leftovers from the fridge, just pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re heated through and the cheese is melty again. If they’ve been frozen, you can thaw them overnight in the fridge and then reheat them as mentioned, or you can bake them straight from the freezer, adding a little extra time (about 25-30 minutes) until they’re warmed all the way through.
For a quick microwave option, place a couple of enchiladas on a microwave-safe plate, cover them with a damp paper towel (to keep them from drying out), and heat for about 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through until they’re hot. Just be careful not to overdo it, or you might end up with rubbery tortillas!
With these simple tips, you’ll be able to savor your creamy enchiladas again and again, keeping that deliciousness alive! Enjoy!
Print
Cream cheese chicken enchiladas 2: Comfort Food Bliss
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Creamy and flavorful chicken enchiladas made with cream cheese.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 8 flour tortillas
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cream cheese, salsa, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Warm the tortillas in a skillet for easier rolling.
- Spoon the chicken mixture onto each tortilla and roll them up.
- Place the rolled tortillas in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- You can add beans or corn for extra flavor.
- Top with fresh cilantro for garnish.
- Serve with sour cream or guacamole.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 enchiladas
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: cream cheese chicken enchiladas
