Chicken Enchiladas: Roll, Smother, Bake, Devour

Enchiladas are the casserole that doesn’t feel like a casserole. Soft tortillas stuffed with savory chicken and cheese, then drowned in sauce and baked until bubbly.

This version is fast, uses a sauce hack (no simmering for hours), and delivers exactly what you want: cheesy, saucy, slightly spicy perfection.

Ingredients

Serves 4-6.

  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken saves the day)
  • 8 small flour or corn tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese
  • 1 can (19 oz) red enchilada sauce
  • ½ cup diced onion
  • Optional toppings: sour cream, cilantro, diced avocado, hot sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Spread ½ cup enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Filling

  1. In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, 1 cup of cheese, and diced onion.

Step 3: Roll the Enchiladas

  1. Warm tortillas in the microwave for 30 seconds (prevents cracking).
  2. Spoon filling down the center of each tortilla.
  3. Roll tightly and place seam-side down in the baking dish.

Step 4: Smother and Top

  1. Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas.
  2. Sprinkle with remaining 1 cup of cheese.

Step 5: Bake and Finish

  1. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes until sauce is bubbly and cheese is melted.
  2. Let rest 5 minutes (so they hold their shape). Top with sour cream, cilantro, and whatever else you love.

Summary

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes

Yield: 8 enchiladas (4-6 servings)

Difficulty: Easy

Storage Notes

Leftovers:

Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. The tortillas will soften, but the flavor gets even better.

Freezing:

Assemble the enchiladas (without baking) in a freezer-safe dish. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 40-45 minutes.

Reheating:

Microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes. For a whole dish, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.

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