Chicken Enchiladas with Cheese & Cream: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Chicken Enchiladas with Cheese & Cream are a comforting Mexican-inspired dish that combines tender shredded chicken, soft tortillas, rich tomato-based sauce, and a luscious creamy cheese topping. It’s cozy, indulgent, and perfect for family dinners, weekend gatherings, or when you’re craving something flavorful and satisfying.

In this guide, you’ll discover why these enchiladas are so popular, how to prepare them step by step, and tips for baking and serving them perfectly every time. From their melty cheese layers to the creamy finish, these enchiladas will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cheesy & Creamy – A melty topping of cheese with smooth cream sauce.
• Family Favorite – Comfort food that pleases both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Assemble in advance and bake before serving.
• Customizable – Adjust spice levels, swap proteins, or add veggies.
• Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect for potlucks, parties, or cozy nights in.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
• 8 small flour or corn tortillas
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional garnish)
• Salt & pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Filling: In a skillet, heat olive oil. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Stir in shredded chicken, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add 1/2 cup tomato sauce, mix, and set aside.
2. Make Sauce: In a bowl, combine remaining tomato sauce with sour cream (or crema). Whisk until smooth.
3. Assemble Enchiladas: Spread a thin layer of sauce in a baking dish. Fill each tortilla with chicken mixture, roll tightly, and place seam-side down.
4. Top & Bake: Pour remaining sauce over enchiladas. Sprinkle generously with shredded cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
5. Serve: Garnish with cilantro and serve warm with your favorite sides.

How to Serve

• Plating Tips: Serve enchiladas on a warm plate topped with extra crema and fresh cilantro.
• Side Pairings: Perfect with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad.
• Leftover Uses: Slice and reheat for next-day lunch, or turn into enchilada nachos.
• Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with iced tea, margaritas, or sparkling water with lime.

Additional Tips

• Warm tortillas slightly before rolling to prevent cracking.
• Use a mix of cheeses for extra flavor.
• Add jalapeños or green chilies for spice.
• Double the batch for freezing.

Variations

• Vegetable Additions: Add corn, black beans, or bell peppers.
• Spicy Version: Use hot chili powder or spicy enchilada sauce.
• Creamy Twist: Add cream cheese to the filling.
• Herb-Infused Upgrade: Sprinkle fresh oregano or parsley.

Storage & Freezing

• Refrigerate: Up to 3 days in an airtight container.
• Freeze: Up to 2 months. Wrap tightly before freezing.
• Reheat: Bake covered at 350°F with a splash of sauce or broth.

Special Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Aluminum foil

Conclusion

Chicken Enchiladas with Cheese & Cream are the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor. With their gooey cheese topping and perfectly seasoned filling, they’ll become a go-to dinner that everyone looks forward to.

Print