Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas Verdes

Name: Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas Verdes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 8 corn tortillas; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack); 1 cup green enchilada sauce; 1/2 cup chopped onions; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Home Recipes

Deliciously cheesy and packed with flavor, these Chicken Enchiladas Verdes are a delightful twist on a classic dish.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-18T16:13:48.436Z

These Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas Verdes are comfort food at its finest. With tender chicken wrapped in soft tortillas, smothered in a tangy green sauce and melted cheese, they are sure to please any crowd.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy cheese that pulls apart beautifully
Flavorful green sauce that adds a zesty kick
Easy to make and perfect for weeknight dinners

      

A Flavorful Twist on Tradition

Enchiladas are a staple of Mexican cuisine, traditionally filled with a variety of meats, beans, or vegetables. This recipe takes a beloved classic and gives it a fresh twist by incorporating a zesty green sauce and an abundance of cheese. The creamy texture and rich flavors make these Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas Verdes a hit at any dinner table.

The green enchilada sauce is the star of this dish, bringing a vibrant flavor that complements the tender chicken beautifully. Made from tomatillos, green chilies, and spices, this sauce is both tangy and savory, providing the perfect backdrop for the cheesy filling. Each bite offers a delightful explosion of taste, making it hard to resist going back for seconds.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a family gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking for a comforting weeknight meal, these enchiladas fit the bill perfectly. They can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving, making them an excellent choice for busy nights when time is of the essence. Plus, they are a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy.

You can also customize the fillings and toppings to suit your taste. Consider adding black beans or corn for extra texture, or try different types of cheese like pepper jack for a spicy kick. The versatility of this recipe allows you to experiment while still maintaining the essence of traditional enchiladas.

Cooking Tips for Success

To ensure that your corn tortillas don't break while rolling, consider warming them in a skillet or microwave before assembly. This softens them and makes them more pliable. Additionally, using freshly shredded cheese will melt better and create that perfect gooey texture that enchiladas are known for.

If you're looking to make this dish even healthier, you can substitute the shredded chicken with shredded turkey or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option. The green sauce can also be made from scratch for an even fresher taste, allowing you to control the ingredients and adjust the spice level to your preference.

Ingredients

For the Enchiladas

2 cups shredded cooked chicken
8 corn tortillas
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
1 cup green enchilada sauce
1/2 cup chopped onions
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Enjoy your delicious enchiladas!

Instructions

Prepare the Filling

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Stir in shredded chicken, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Mix well and remove from heat.

Assemble the Enchiladas

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a little enchilada sauce on the bottom. Take a corn tortilla, add a scoop of the chicken mixture and some cheese, then roll it up and place it seam-side down in the dish.

Repeat with the remaining tortillas.

Top with Sauce and Cheese

Once all enchiladas are in the dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining cheese. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve hot.

Enjoy your meal!

Serving Suggestions

Pair these Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas Verdes with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh green salad to round out your meal. The lightness of the salad complements the richness of the enchiladas, providing a balanced dining experience. You can also serve them with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for added creaminess and flavor.

For a refreshing drink, consider serving classic Mexican beverages like horchata or agua fresca. These drinks can enhance the overall meal and provide a delightful contrast to the spicy enchiladas, making for a well-rounded culinary experience.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the enchiladas in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This method helps retain the texture and flavor of the cheese and sauce.

For longer storage, you can freeze assembled but unbaked enchiladas. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing them in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. This makes for a convenient meal option that you can enjoy anytime.

Nutritional Information

These Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas Verdes are not only delicious but can also be a nutritious meal choice. They provide a good source of protein from the chicken and cheese, while the green sauce offers vitamins and minerals from the tomatillos and green chilies. You can easily adjust the ingredients to create a healthier version by incorporating more veggies or using low-fat cheese.

Be mindful of portion sizes, as enchiladas can be quite filling. Pairing them with lighter sides, such as a salad, can help make your meal more balanced. Enjoying these enchiladas in moderation will allow you to savor the flavors while maintaining a healthy diet.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver.

→ What can I substitute for green enchilada sauce?

You can use a homemade tomatillo sauce or any other green salsa.

→ Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them and refrigerate before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if cooking from cold.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Yes, you can replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables or beans for a delicious vegetarian version.