Name: Creamy Queso Chicken Enchiladas for Effortless Family Dinners Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded chicken (substitute with shredded beef or turkey if desired); 1 packet taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade); 1 cup sour cream (Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier substitute); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicy twist); 1 can chopped green chilies (diced jalapeños can be used for more heat); 1 package Velveeta cheese (cream cheese can be used, though the flavor may differ); 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (fresh tomatoes or tomato sauce can work as alternatives); 8 tortillas (gluten-free tortillas available for gluten avoidance)

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Introduction

Creamy Queso Chicken Enchiladas offer a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. This dish blends tender shredded chicken with a rich, cheesy sauce for an irresistible dinner the whole family will enjoy.

A close-up of a stuffed burrito on a white plate, with the burrito wrapped in a soft, light brown tortilla. It has a thick layer of melted white cheese covering the top, some cheese stretching from the sides and melting onto the plate. On top of the cheese, there is a layer of finely chopped red tomatoes mixed with fresh green cilantro sprinkled around. The burrito fills the frame with a cozy and creamy look, set against a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups shredded chicken (substitute with shredded beef or turkey if desired)
1 packet taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup sour cream (Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier substitute)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicy twist)
1 can chopped green chilies (diced jalapeños can be used for more heat)
1 package Velveeta cheese (cream cheese can be used, though the flavor may differ)
1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (fresh tomatoes or tomato sauce can work as alternatives)
8 tortillas (gluten-free tortillas available for gluten avoidance)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, taco seasoning, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and chopped green chilies. Mix well to create the filling.
Step 3: In a saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the Velveeta cheese together with the undrained diced tomatoes and green chilies until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Lay each tortilla flat and scoop about ½ to ¾ cup of the chicken mixture onto it. Roll the tortilla up tightly to enclose the filling.
Step 5: Arrange the rolled enchiladas seam side down in a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
Step 6: Pour the warm queso sauce evenly over the enchiladas.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until heated through and bubbly.

Tips & Variations

Try using Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese instead of cheddar for a milder or spicier taste.
Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt to add protein and reduce fat.
For extra flavor, add diced onions or garlic to the chicken filling.
Use gluten-free tortillas if you need to avoid gluten without compromising on taste.
To make it vegetarian, substitute chicken with black beans or sautéed vegetables.

Storage

Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, or microwave until hot. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked enchiladas in a covered dish for up to 2 months; bake from frozen, adding extra bake time as needed.

How to Serve

Two rolled tortillas filled with cooked shredded chicken and melted cheese form the base layer, placed side by side on a white rectangular plate. The tortillas are covered in a thick layer of white cheese sauce with light golden melted cheese drizzled over the top. On top of the cheese, there are small bright red diced tomato pieces and scattered green chopped cilantro, adding fresh color contrast. To the side, a small white ramekin holds a creamy white dressing garnished with a bit of green herb, next to a pile of more diced tomatoes. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, and a woman's hand is visible near the top right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute shredded chicken with shredded beef, turkey, or even cooked pork to suit your preference.

Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?

Yes, add diced jalapeños instead of green chilies or use Pepper Jack cheese for a spicy kick. You can also sprinkle a dash of cayenne pepper into the filling.