Green Chile Chicken and Cheese Enchiladas Supreme Recipe

Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with loved ones, and these Green Chile Chicken and Cheese Enchiladas are a testament to that joy. I remember the first time I made them; the aroma of the green chile sauce filled the kitchen, and soon enough, friends gathered around, eager to taste. It was an evening of laughter, stories, and shared plates, epitomizing what I love most about cooking: bringing people together.

Enchiladas hold a special place in my heart—not just for their bold flavors but for the memories they create. As I layer the tortillas, chicken, and cheese, I am reminded of the simple yet beautiful moments spent with family. These Green Chile Chicken and Cheese Enchiladas have become a staple in our gatherings, a dish that always guarantees smiles and satisfied appetites.

Every bite of these enchiladas is a taste of comfort. The combination of tender chicken, tangy green chile sauce, and gooey cheese is simply irresistible. I love how this dish embodies everything I cherish about cooking: it’s creative, comforting, and, most importantly, fun to make. These enchiladas are more than just a meal; they are a celebration of flavor and togetherness.

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Green Chile Chicken and Cheese Enchiladas

Green Chile Chicken and Cheese Enchiladas

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  • Author: Chloe
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 90 minutes
  • Total Time: 105 minutes
  • Yield: 8
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexicaine

Description

Discover how to make mouthwatering Green Chile Chicken and Cheese Enchiladas with this easy recipe. Perfect for any meal, these enchiladas are a delicious family favorite!


Ingredients

  • 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
  • Garlic salt to taste
  • 18 (6 inch) corn tortillas, torn in half
  • 1 (28 ounce (794 g)) can green chile enchilada sauce
  • 1 (16 ounce (454 g)) package shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 (8 ounce (227 g)) container reduced fat sour cream


Instructions

  1. Set your oven to a temperature of 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and lightly coat a medium-sized baking dish with grease.
  2. Sprinkle garlic salt over the chicken and place it in the prepared dish. Cook in the oven until the chicken is no longer pink inside and the juices are clear, around 45 minutes. The internal temperature should reach at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
  3. Let the chicken cool, then use two forks to tear it into shreds and put it to the side.
  4. While the chicken cools, use metal tongs to briefly toast each tortilla half over a gas burner until they puff slightly, about 1 minute.
  5. Pour a layer of enchilada sauce, approximately 1/2 inch deep, into the bottom of a medium baking dish and place 6 tortilla halves in a single layer on top.
  6. Scatter half of the shredded chicken over the tortillas, then add one-third of the cheese, half of the sour cream, and one-third of the remaining enchilada sauce.
  7. Repeat the layering process. Coat the rest of the tortillas in the remaining enchilada sauce and place them on top. Add the remaining cheese and pour any leftover sauce over it.
  8. Cover the dish and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Allow it to cool a bit before serving.

Notes

  • Season chicken breasts with garlic salt on both sides before bakingnBriefly toast corn tortillas over a gas burner for flavor and crispnessnLet the dish rest 10 minutes after baking for easier serving

Creating Perfect Green Chile Chicken and Cheese Enchiladas

Fundamentals

To master Green Chile Chicken and Cheese Enchiladas, start with quality ingredients. Choose fresh chicken breast halves for a juicy, flavorful base. Garlic salt adds a subtle kick, enhancing the chicken’s natural taste. Corn tortillas provide a perfect foundation, absorbing the green chile enchilada sauce beautifully.

Monterey Jack cheese is essential for its melty texture and mild flavor, complementing the spiciness of the green chile sauce. Reduced-fat sour cream adds creaminess without overwhelming richness, balancing the dish perfectly. Each component plays a crucial role in crafting the ideal enchilada experience.

Preparation/setup

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish to prevent sticking. Sprinkle garlic salt over the chicken breasts and place them in the prepared dish. Bake until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear, ensuring a tender texture.

Once cooled, shred the chicken with two forks, creating perfect pieces for layering. While the chicken cools, briefly toast each tortilla half over a gas burner using metal tongs. This step adds a delightful texture and flavor, making the tortillas slightly crispy and more robust for layering.

Techniques for Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas

Technique

Layering is key to achieving the perfect Green Chile Chicken and Cheese Enchiladas. Begin by pouring a generous layer of enchilada sauce into a medium baking dish. Arrange tortilla halves in a single layer on top, ensuring they cover the sauce evenly. Next, scatter shredded chicken over the tortillas, followed by one-third of the cheese, half of the sour cream, and another layer of enchilada sauce.

Repeat the process to build layers of flavor and texture. Finish with a final layer of tortillas, remaining cheese, and any leftover sauce. Cover the dish and bake it in the oven, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. This technique ensures every bite is a perfect balance of ingredients.

Green Chile Chicken and Cheese Enchiladas

Tips/tricks

For even cooking, ensure the chicken is uniformly shredded and spread evenly across each layer. This ensures every bite contains a satisfying amount of chicken. When toasting the tortillas, be careful not to overdo it; a brief toast is enough to enhance their texture without making them too brittle.

If you’re interested in trying other dishes with similar bold flavors, explore our Hatch Green Chile Stew with Ground Beef. For those who enjoy slow-cooked meals, our Slow Cooker Pinto Beans with Green Chile and Beef offers a delightful option.

Perfecting Your Enchiladas

Perfecting results

To achieve the best Green Chile Chicken and Cheese Enchiladas, pay attention to each layer. The enchilada sauce should fully coat the tortillas, ensuring they absorb the flavors while baking. This step prevents the dish from becoming dry and enhances the overall taste.

Allow the dish to rest after baking before serving. This resting period helps the layers set, making it easier to serve neat portions. The cheese will settle, creating a gooey, delicious top layer that is irresistible.

Troubleshooting/variations

If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the enchilada sauce. For a milder version, opt for a milder green chile sauce. Experimenting with different cheese varieties, such as cheddar or pepper jack, can also offer new flavor profiles.

For those who love experimenting with chicken dishes, try Caesar Chicken with Asparagus or the delightful Chicken Zucchini Bake. These recipes offer wonderful variations and flavors that you might enjoy.

Serving and Pairing Enchiladas

Serving/presentation

Present your Green Chile Chicken and Cheese Enchiladas with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or chopped green onions for a pop of color. Serve alongside a simple green salad or a side of rice to complete the meal. The vibrant presentation will make it an inviting dish on any table.

Consider serving with a dollop of extra sour cream or a squeeze of lime for added freshness. This contrast enhances the bold flavors of the enchiladas, offering a refreshing balance to the rich, cheesy layers.

Green Chile Chicken and Cheese Enchiladas

Pairings/storage

Pair your enchiladas with a chilled glass of iced tea or a refreshing lemonade for a delightful contrast. These beverages complement the spicy and savory notes, offering a cooling effect that enhances the dining experience.

To store leftovers, cover the baking dish with foil or transfer portions to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, cover the dish to retain moisture and prevent the cheese from drying out. If you enjoy dishes with a cheesy twist, try our Fully Loaded Classic Chili Cheese Dog Casserole, or indulge in Crispy Cheese and Bacon Potatoes for a decadent treat.

Conclusion

Green Chile Chicken and Cheese Enchiladas offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that bring joy to any table. The careful layering of ingredients ensures each bite is a harmonious blend of spicy, creamy, and cheesy goodness. With the right techniques and tips, you can create a comforting meal that leaves a lasting impression.

This dish exemplifies the power of cooking to connect people and create cherished memories. Its versatility allows for personalization, whether you prefer a spicier kick or a milder, cheese-forward version. Enjoy exploring these flavors and making this dish a staple in your culinary repertoire.

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