Delicious Chicken Enchiladas with Homemade Red Enchilada Sauce

Chicken Enchiladas with Homemade Red Enchilada Sauce are a delectable and comforting dish packed with savory shredded chicken, gooey melted cheese, and a rich, smoky sauce that takes this classic recipe to the next level. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or hosting a casual gathering, this homemade version is sure to impress. The flavor-packed enchiladas, smothered in a vibrant red sauce, are an easy and satisfying way to bring a taste of Mexican cuisine to your table.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe

• Authentic & Flavorful: The homemade red enchilada sauce brings an unparalleled richness and complexity to the dish.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe can be made ahead of time and baked when you’re ready, making it an excellent option for busy nights.
• Customizable to Your Liking: Whether you prefer a little extra spice or like to load up on extra fillings, this recipe is highly adaptable.
• Cheesy and Comforting: Every bite is filled with a generous amount of melty cheese, adding to the overall indulgence of the dish.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Homemade Red Enchilada Sauce:

• Olive oil
• All-purpose flour
• Chili powder
• Cumin
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Smoked paprika
• Tomato paste
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt and black pepper

For the Chicken Enchiladas:

• Shredded cooked chicken (leftover rotisserie chicken works wonderfully)
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend)
• Corn or flour tortillas
• Onion (diced)
• Garlic (minced)
• Green chilies (optional, for an extra kick)
• Olive oil
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Make the Red Enchilada Sauce

1. Heat Oil & Flour: In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, and cook for about 1 minute until the mixture turns golden brown.
2. Add the Spices & Tomato Paste: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and tomato paste. Mix until well combined.
3. Simmer the Sauce: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Prepare the Enchiladas

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the enchiladas from sticking.
2. Sauté Onion & Garlic: In a skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sautéed onions, green chilies (if using), and ½ cup of the red enchilada sauce. Stir to combine.
4. Assemble the Enchiladas: Lay the tortillas flat on a surface. Spoon the chicken mixture into the center of each tortilla and top with shredded cheese. Roll the tortillas tightly, placing them seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
5. Add Sauce & Cheese: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, ensuring they are well covered. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top of the sauce.
6. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden.

Step 3: Garnish and Serve

1. Let the Enchiladas Cool: Allow the enchiladas to cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish: Top with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and freshness.
3. Serve: Slice, serve, and enjoy your delicious homemade chicken enchiladas!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations to Customize Your Enchiladas

• Spicy Enchiladas: For an added kick, include chopped jalapeños or an extra teaspoon of chili powder in the sauce.
• Creamy Chicken Enchiladas: Add a bit of sour cream or cream cheese to the chicken filling to make it extra creamy.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and substitute with black beans, mushrooms, or roasted vegetables for a delicious plant-based version.
• Gluten-Free: Use corn tortillas and ensure the enchilada sauce is made with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free alternative.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, assemble the enchiladas (without cheese) and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the enchiladas in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes, until heated through.

FAQs About Chicken Enchiladas

Can I use store-bought enchilada sauce?
While you can use store-bought enchilada sauce, homemade enchilada sauce offers a fresher, richer flavor that truly elevates the dish.

What cheese is best for enchiladas?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Mexican cheese blends all work beautifully for enchiladas, as they melt wonderfully and bring a delicious flavor.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic option! It saves you time and adds great flavor to the enchiladas.

How can I avoid soggy enchiladas?
To avoid sogginess, consider lightly toasting your tortillas before filling them. This helps them maintain their structure and prevents them from becoming too soft.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the enchiladas and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a perfect option for meal prep or for preparing the dish in advance.

What tortillas should I use?
Traditional enchiladas are made with corn tortillas, but flour tortillas are also a great option for a softer texture.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply use dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese entirely for a dairy-free version of the recipe.

Can I add beans to the enchiladas?
Yes, beans such as black beans or pinto beans make a great addition to the chicken enchiladas, offering extra texture and flavor.

What sides go well with enchiladas?
Enchiladas are delicious when served with sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, a fresh avocado salad, or a side of guacamole.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Doubling the recipe is easy. Just use a larger baking dish and double the ingredients to serve more people.

Conclusion

Chicken Enchiladas with Homemade Red Enchilada Sauce are the epitome of comfort food. With tender, flavorful chicken, a gooey layer of cheese, and a smoky, rich sauce, these enchiladas are a crowd-pleasing dish that you’ll want to make again and again. Perfect for any occasion, they are a delicious and customizable meal everyone will love.

Enjoy making these enchiladas, and don’t forget to top them with your favorite garnishes for that perfect finishing touch. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply treating yourself to a comforting meal, these chicken enchiladas are a surefire hit!