Chipotle Chicken Enchiladas

There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of warm enchiladas, especially when they are filled with tender chicken and smothered in a smoky, rich sauce. This Chipotle Chicken Enchiladas recipe takes your taste buds on a journey, infusing the traditional enchilada with a burst of flavor from chipotle peppers and fire-roasted tomatoes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, these enchiladas are sure to impress everyone at the table.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes these Chipotle Chicken Enchiladas stand out is the combination of smoky chipotle peppers and vibrant fire-roasted tomatoes, creating a sauce that’s both robust and deeply flavorful. The addition of rotisserie chicken saves time and effort, making this dish quick to prepare without sacrificing taste. Topped with a generous amount of cheese and served with fresh garnishes, this meal is not just satisfying but also visually appealing.

What You’ll Need

• 9 corn tortillas
• 1 (15-ounce) can crushed fire-roasted tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 2 1/2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 2/3 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup sliced green onion
• 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend, divided
• Sour cream, green onions, cilantro, and avocado for serving

Equipment Breakdown

• Large skillet: For sautéing and creating the sauce.
• 9×13 inch baking dish: To assemble and bake the enchiladas.
• Mixing bowl: For combining the filling ingredients.
• Wooden spoon: For stirring and mixing.
• Oven: To bake the enchiladas until bubbly and golden.

Directions: Chipotle Chicken Enchiladas

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the crushed fire-roasted tomatoes, chicken broth, chipotle peppers, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, sour cream, sliced green onions, and 1 cup of the shredded Mexican cheese blend. Mix until everything is well combined and coated in the sour cream.

Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In the prepared baking dish, spread a thin layer of the sauce on the bottom. Take a corn tortilla, fill it with a generous scoop of the chicken mixture, and roll it up tightly. Place the rolled tortilla seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.

Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese

Once all the enchiladas are in the dish, pour the remaining sauce over the top, ensuring each enchilada is well coated. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded Mexican cheese blend evenly over the sauce.

Step 5: Bake

Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over the top of the enchiladas. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Step 6: Serve

Once baked, remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm, topped with fresh cilantro, avocado, and additional sour cream and green onions, if desired.

Tailor It to Your Diet

• For a gluten-free option, ensure your corn tortillas are labeled gluten-free.
• To make it dairy-free, substitute the sour cream and cheese with plant-based alternatives.
• For a spicier kick, add more chipotle peppers or some diced jalapeños to the filling.
• Enhance the nutrients by adding black beans or corn to the chicken filling.

Flavor Logic

The foundation of these Chipotle Chicken Enchiladas lies in the balance of flavors. The smokiness of the chipotle peppers complements the sweetness of the fire-roasted tomatoes, while the creamy sour cream adds a luscious texture to the filling. The rotisserie chicken not only provides convenience but also brings a savory depth to the dish. Topping the enchiladas with cheese ensures a gooey, delicious finish that melds perfectly with the sauce. Each bite is a harmony of smoky, creamy, and savory notes that will keep you coming back for more.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

These Chipotle Chicken Enchiladas can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the enchiladas to cool completely before covering them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. If you want to freeze them, wrap each enchilada individually in foil and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What if my tortillas break while rolling?

If your corn tortillas are breaking, they may be too dry or not warm enough. Try warming them in a skillet or microwave for a few seconds to make them more pliable.

How can I make the sauce less spicy?

If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the number of chipotle peppers or substitute them with a milder chili powder or omit them altogether.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as Monterey Jack or cheddar. The key is to choose a cheese that melts well.

What should I serve with the enchiladas?

These enchiladas pair wonderfully with a fresh Chicken Shawarma salad, Mexican rice, or even a side of refried beans for a complete meal.

Desserts to Finish

• Baked Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta for a creamy finish.
• Baked Teriyaki Chicken Recipe for a sweet and savory option.
• Classic flan for a traditional dessert that complements the spices.
• Churros with chocolate sauce for a delightful, crispy treat.

Hungry for More?

If you enjoyed these Chipotle Chicken Enchiladas, you’ll find even more delicious recipes on our blog that celebrate bold flavors and comforting meals. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick weeknight dinner or an elaborate feast, we’ve got you covered. From hearty pasta dishes to spicy chicken recipes, there’s always something new to try. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!