Cheese Chicken Enchiladas

Cheese Chicken Enchiladas are a comforting, flavorful dish that combines tender shredded chicken, melty cheese, and rich enchilada sauce wrapped in soft corn tortillas. With a creamy filling and a cheesy, golden topping, this dish is a satisfying and crowd-pleasing meal for any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These enchiladas are both hearty and easy to make, using simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. The combination of cottage cheese and shredded cheese creates a creamy and satisfying filling, while the enchilada sauce adds just the right amount of spice. Perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or a comforting family dinner, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken

• 1 cup cottage cheese

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)

• 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce

• 8–10 corn tortillas

• ½ cup chopped onions

• ½ cup chopped green peppers

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

directions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.

2. Prepare the Filling
   In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cottage cheese, ½ cup shredded cheese, onions, green peppers, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.

3. Soften the Tortillas
   Wrap the corn tortillas in a damp towel and microwave for about 30 seconds until warm and pliable.

4. Assemble the Enchiladas
   Spoon the chicken mixture into the center of each tortilla. Roll them tightly and place seam-side down in a lightly greased baking dish.

5. Add Sauce and Cheese
   Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the enchiladas, covering them completely. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese over the top.

6. Bake Covered
   Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes to warm the enchiladas and meld the flavors.

7. Finish Baking Uncovered
   Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt fully and turn golden and bubbly.

8. Serve Hot
   Let the enchiladas cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm for the best texture and flavor.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8–10 enchiladas
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per enchilada

Variations

• Spicy version: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the filling for extra heat.

• Sauce options: Use green enchilada sauce or a homemade red sauce for a different flavor profile.

• Meat alternative: Substitute shredded beef, turkey, or rotisserie chicken.

• Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with black beans, corn, and zucchini for a meat-free option.

• Topping ideas: Garnish with sour cream, avocado slices, or chopped cilantro before serving.

storage/reheating

Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual portions until heated through. You can also freeze the assembled, unbaked enchiladas for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

FAQs

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?

Yes, flour tortillas work well and are easier to roll, but the texture will be slightly different.

Is cottage cheese a good substitute for ricotta?

Yes, cottage cheese offers a similar creamy texture with less fat and works well in this filling.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the enchiladas a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.

Can I freeze leftover enchiladas?

Yes, freeze either before or after baking. Wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months.

What other cheeses can I use?

You can substitute mozzarella, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for a different flavor.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Ensure your corn tortillas and enchilada sauce are certified gluten-free.

What side dishes go well with enchiladas?

Serve with Spanish rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I make this dish in a casserole style?

Yes, layer tortillas, filling, sauce, and cheese like a lasagna and bake as a casserole.

How do I keep my enchiladas from getting soggy?

Avoid over-saucing and bake uncovered for the last few minutes to crisp up the tops.

Can I add more vegetables?

Certainly—try adding corn, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms to the filling for more variety.

Conclusion

Cheese Chicken Enchiladas are a flavorful, comforting meal that’s simple to prepare and sure to satisfy. With creamy cheese, tender chicken, and a touch of spice, these enchiladas make a versatile and delicious option for busy weeknights or festive family dinners. Customize them to suit your tastes and enjoy a dish that never goes out of style.

Cheese Chicken Enchiladas

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews

• Author: Olivia
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 8–10 enchiladas
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

---

Description

Cheese Chicken Enchiladas are a comforting and cheesy Mexican-inspired dish filled with shredded chicken, cottage cheese, peppers, and onions, then baked with rich enchilada sauce and melted cheese. A simple, crowd-pleasing dinner perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Keywords: Cheese Chicken Enchiladas, cottage cheese enchiladas, baked chicken enchiladas, Mexican chicken casserole, easy enchilada recipe.

---

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken

• 1 cup cottage cheese

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)

• 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce

• 8-10 corn tortillas

• 1/2 cup chopped onions

• 1/2 cup chopped green peppers

• 1 tsp chili powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Filling
2. In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, cottage cheese, ½ cup shredded cheese, onions, green peppers, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Soften the Tortillas
3. Wrap tortillas in a damp towel and microwave for 30 seconds until pliable.

Step 4: Assemble the Enchiladas
4. Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture and roll tightly.
5. Place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese
6. Pour enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas.
7. Sprinkle with remaining ½ cup shredded cheese.

Step 6: Bake Covered
8. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.

Step 7: Finish Baking Uncovered
9. Uncover and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 8: Serve Hot
10. Let cool slightly and serve warm.

---

Notes

• Substitute cottage cheese with ricotta for a smoother texture.

• Add canned green chilies or jalapeños for extra heat.

• Serve with sour cream, salsa, or avocado on the side.