When you’re craving something flavorful, easy to make, and satisfying for the whole family, Chicken Enchiladas with Red Enchilada Sauce is the perfect dish. This classic Mexican-inspired meal is all about bold flavors, with a balance of seasoned chicken, tangy red enchilada sauce, and cheesy goodness wrapped in soft corn tortillas.

In this post, I’ll walk you through how to make these irresistible chicken enchiladas from scratch, offering tips, variations, and ways to adapt the recipe to your preferences. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this recipe delivers every time.

Why Make These Chicken Enchiladas with Red Sauce?

Chicken enchiladas are a beloved dish in many homes, and for good reason. They combine the comforting warmth of home-cooked food with a punch of flavor that makes every bite exciting. Here’s why you should give this recipe a try:

  • Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require advanced cooking skills. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish on the table in less than an hour.
  • Customizable: This recipe is incredibly flexible. You can make it spicy or mild, adjust the ingredients to fit dietary needs, or even add your favorite toppings.
  • Family Favorite: The combination of shredded chicken, gooey cheese, and tangy enchilada sauce is a surefire hit for both kids and adults alike.
  • Perfect for Leftovers: These enchiladas taste just as great the next day, making them ideal for meal prep or a make-ahead option for busy weeknights.

 

Chicken Enchiladas with Homemade Red Enchilada Sauce Recipe

 

Ingredients for Chicken Enchiladas with Red Sauce

Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have all the ingredients ready. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Enchiladas:

  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken – Rotisserie chicken works well, or you can cook and shred your own.
  • 2 cups red enchilada sauce – You can use homemade or store-bought sauce. If you prefer homemade, I’ll include a quick recipe below.
  • 8 corn tortillas – For authentic flavor, use corn tortillas, but you can substitute flour tortillas if preferred.
  • 1 cup shredded cheese – Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of both adds great flavor and texture.
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro – For garnish and added freshness.
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion – Adds a slight crunch and depth of flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil – Used to sauté the onions and toast the spices.
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin – Adds warmth and depth to the chicken filling.
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder – For a mild heat. Adjust to taste if you like it spicier.
  • Salt and pepper to taste – To season the chicken filling.

For the Homemade Red Enchilada Sauce (optional but recommended):

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 tablespoons chili powder – For heat and depth.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • Salt to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Enchiladas with Red Sauce

This recipe is easy to follow, and the results are always rewarding. Here’s how to make the enchiladas step by step:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your enchiladas will bake evenly once they’re assembled.

Prepare the Filling

  • In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add the chopped onion, cumin, and chili powder. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is softened and translucent.
  • Stir in the shredded chicken and 1/2 cup of the red enchilada sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and set aside.

Warm the Tortillas

  • Warm the corn tortillas either in the microwave or on a skillet to make them more pliable. This prevents them from cracking when you roll the enchiladas.

Assemble the Enchiladas

  • Spread 1/2 cup of the enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Fill each tortilla with about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture, roll them up, and place them seam-side down in the prepared dish.
  • Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top of the rolled tortillas, ensuring they are well covered.
  • Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top.

Bake

  • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serve

  • Garnish the enchiladas with chopped fresh cilantro, and serve them hot. These enchiladas pair well with a side of rice, beans, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Enchiladas

  • Tortilla Choice: If you prefer flour tortillas, you can easily substitute them for corn tortillas. Keep in mind that corn tortillas provide a more authentic flavor.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the enchiladas in advance and store them in the fridge, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a convenient option for busy days.
  • Spice Level: If you like a little heat, you can add more chili powder or even a diced jalapeño to the chicken filling.
  • Shredding Chicken: To save time, use a store-bought rotisserie chicken. If you’re cooking chicken from scratch, poaching it in broth will keep it moist and flavorful.
  • Cheese Choices: For a more indulgent dish, use a blend of cheeses. A combination of Monterey Jack and cheddar works beautifully.

Recipe Variations

One of the best things about enchiladas is their versatility. Here are a few ideas for changing up this recipe to suit your tastes:

  • Vegetarian Enchiladas: Replace the chicken with black beans, roasted vegetables, or a combination of both for a hearty vegetarian version.
  • Beef or Pork Enchiladas: Swap out the chicken for ground beef or pulled pork for a different take on the classic enchilada.
  • Creamy Enchiladas: Add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the chicken filling for a creamier texture and richer flavor.
  • Spicy Enchiladas: For those who love heat, add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to the filling, or use a spicier enchilada sauce.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of these chicken enchiladas provides the following approximate nutritional values:

  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 2g

This meal offers a good balance of protein and carbohydrates, making it both filling and nutritious. You can easily adjust the recipe to suit dietary preferences, such as using low-fat cheese or a gluten-free enchilada sauce.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Freezing: These enchiladas freeze well. To freeze, assemble the enchiladas but don’t bake them. Instead, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed.

Serving Ideas: Serve your enchiladas with some classic sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh green salad. You can also top them with sour cream, guacamole, or a squeeze of lime for extra flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use store-bought enchilada sauce?

Yes! While homemade enchilada sauce is delicious and easy to make, store-bought works just as well. Just choose a brand you like.

Q: Can I make these enchiladas gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use gluten-free corn tortillas and ensure your enchilada sauce is gluten-free (some store-bought varieties may contain gluten).

Q: How do I keep the tortillas from breaking?

Warming the tortillas before filling them makes them more pliable and prevents them from cracking.

Q: Can I add extra vegetables to the filling?

Yes! Diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach would be great additions to the chicken filling.

Q: What other proteins can I use?

Shredded pork, beef, or even shrimp would be excellent alternatives to chicken in this recipe.

Related Recipes

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Conclusion

These Chicken Enchiladas with Red Enchilada Sauce are more than just a meal—they’re an experience in flavor and comfort, perfect for any night of the week. The combination of tender shredded chicken, tangy homemade enchilada sauce, and melted cheese wrapped in soft corn tortillas creates a dish that feels both hearty and indulgent. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a casual get-together with friends, or as a meal-prep option for the week, this recipe is versatile enough to suit any occasion.

One of the best parts about this recipe is how customizable it is. You can keep it classic with chicken, or swap in your favorite protein like beef, pork, or even a vegetarian option. Add extra vegetables to the filling or adjust the spice level to suit your tastes. The homemade enchilada sauce is simple but full of bold, authentic flavors, and once you’ve tried it, you may never want to go back to store-bought versions.