Creamy Queso Chicken Enchiladas for Effortless Family Dinners Recipe

Introduction

Creamy Queso Chicken Enchiladas are a comforting and flavorful dinner option that comes together with minimal effort. This dish features tender shredded chicken wrapped in tortillas, smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce perfect for family gatherings or weeknight meals.

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

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

Tips & Variations

• Use Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese for a creamier texture or a spicy kick.
• Substitute shredded turkey or beef if you want a different protein option.
• Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling for extra heat.
• Use gluten-free tortillas to make this recipe gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
• For a lighter version, swap sour cream with Greek yogurt and use reduced-fat cheese.

Storage

Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Enchiladas can also be frozen before baking; thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas and refrigerate them covered for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking them cold from the fridge.

What if I don’t have Velveeta cheese?

You can substitute Velveeta with cream cheese or a blend of cheddar and cream cheese, though the sauce might be slightly less smooth. Alternatively, use a processed cheese sauce or make your own queso sauce from scratch.

Creamy Queso Chicken Enchiladas for Effortless Family Dinners Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 58 reviews

Creamy Queso Chicken Enchiladas combine shredded chicken with a flavorful blend of taco seasoning, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and green chilies, all rolled into tortillas and topped with a rich Velveeta queso sauce. Baked until bubbly and golden, this dish offers an effortless and comforting family dinner that can be easily customized with different meats or cheeses.

• Author: Daniel
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Filling

• 2 cups shredded chicken (substitute with shredded beef or turkey if desired)
• 1 packet taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt 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 for more heat)

Queso Sauce

• 1 package Velveeta cheese
• 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained, fresh tomatoes or tomato sauce as alternatives)

Assembly

• 8 tortillas (gluten-free tortillas available for gluten avoidance)

Instructions

1. Preparation: Gather and prepare all ingredients to streamline assembly and cooking.
2. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the enchiladas.
3. Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, taco seasoning, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green chilies, mixing thoroughly to create the enchilada filling.
4. Make Queso Sauce: Place the Velveeta cheese and undrained diced tomatoes with green chilies in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir occasionally until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Assemble Enchiladas: Lay each tortilla flat and scoop approximately ½ to ¾ cup of the chicken mixture onto it. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling.
6. Arrange in Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish and place the rolled enchiladas seam side down in the dish, arranging them close together.
7. Top with Queso Sauce: Pour the warm queso sauce evenly over the top of the enchiladas, ensuring they are fully covered.
8. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the enchiladas are heated through and the cheese sauce is bubbly and slightly golden.

Notes

• Substitute shredded beef or turkey for chicken as desired for variation.
• Greek yogurt can be used instead of sour cream for a healthier option.
• Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese can enhance flavor and add spice.
• For more heat, swap chopped green chilies with diced jalapeños.
• Gluten-free tortillas work well for gluten-sensitive diets.
• Velveeta cheese provides a creamy, smooth sauce but cream cheese can be used with a slightly different taste.
• Ensure the queso sauce is warm and smooth before pouring over enchiladas to achieve the best texture.
• Serve with a side of rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Keywords: enchiladas, queso chicken enchiladas, creamy enchiladas, Mexican dinner, cheesy enchiladas, family dinner, easy enchiladas