Three Cheese Chicken Enchiladas

If you’re looking for a dish that’s not only comforting but also packed with flavor, then Three Cheese Chicken Enchiladas are the answer. This recipe brings together tender chicken, a medley of three different cheeses, and a touch of spice to create a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. These enchiladas are perfect for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or even a cozy night in.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

One of the best things about Three Cheese Chicken Enchiladas is their universal appeal. The combination of creamy cheeses melded with succulent chicken wrapped in soft tortillas makes for a delightful bite every time. Plus, the addition of spiced tomatoes and green chiles adds just the right amount of kick without overwhelming the palate. These enchiladas are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion.

What We’re Using

To create the perfect batch of Three Cheese Chicken Enchiladas, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 medium garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon canola or vegetable oil
• 2 cups chopped cooked chicken
• 1 (10-ounce) can ROTEL Diced Tomatoes and Green Chiles
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• 3 ounces crumbled feta or goat cheese
• 12 (6-inch) flour tortillas
• 1 cup half and half cream
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded Cheddar cheese
• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Prep & Cook Tools

Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the following tools handy:

• Large skillet – for sautéing the onions and garlic.
• Mixing bowl – to combine the chicken and cheese filling.
• 9×13 inch baking dish – to hold the enchiladas as they bake.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring and mixing ingredients.
• Oven – to bake your enchiladas to perfection.

From Start to Finish: Three Cheese Chicken Enchiladas

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by heating the canola or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and continue to cook for another minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken, ROTEL Diced Tomatoes and Green Chiles, salt, pepper, fresh cilantro, and crumbled feta or goat cheese. Stir everything together until well mixed.

Step 3: Prepare the Tortillas

Warm the flour tortillas in a microwave for about 30 seconds to make them pliable. This will help prevent cracking when rolling them up with the filling.

Step 4: Assemble the Enchiladas

Spread a thin layer of the half and half cream in the bottom of your 9×13 inch baking dish. Take a tortilla and spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture into the center. Roll it up tightly and place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat this process until all tortillas are filled and arranged in the dish.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the remaining half and half cream with ground cumin. Pour this mixture evenly over the top of the assembled enchiladas.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese and Cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the enchiladas. This cheesy layer will give the dish that gooey, irresistible quality we all love!

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once preheated, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes. Garnish with additional chopped fresh cilantro if desired, and serve hot. Your Three Cheese Chicken Enchiladas are now ready to be enjoyed!

Smart Substitutions

If you’re looking to customize your Three Cheese Chicken Enchiladas, here are some smart substitutions:

• Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
• Swap out the cheeses with your favorites, like Pepper Jack for a spicier kick.
• Substitute flour tortillas with corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
• Replace half and half with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

What Could Go Wrong

While the recipe is quite straightforward, here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overfilling the tortillas can cause them to break when rolling.
• Not warming the tortillas can lead to cracking.
• Forgetting to cover the dish with foil can lead to burnt cheese.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

If you find yourself with leftovers, you’re in for a treat! Three Cheese Chicken Enchiladas reheat beautifully.

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also freeze the enchiladas before baking. Just cover them tightly in foil and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the enchiladas and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them tightly with foil. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What sides pair well with Three Cheese Chicken Enchiladas?

Some great sides include Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh garden salad. You could also serve them with Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Pasta for a fun twist!

Can I use different proteins in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the chicken with shredded beef, pork, or even beans for a vegetarian option.

What if I don’t like spicy food?

If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for mild diced tomatoes and green chiles, or simply use regular diced tomatoes without chiles. You can also reduce the amount of cumin.

Serve with These

To elevate your meal, consider pairing your Three Cheese Chicken Enchiladas with these delightful options:

• Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos
• Mexican Rice
• Refried Beans
• Guacamole
• Fresh Garden Salad

See You at the Table

There you have it! A delicious, cheesy, and satisfying recipe for Three Cheese Chicken Enchiladas. Whether it’s a family night or a gathering with friends, these enchiladas are sure to impress. Enjoy the process of making them, and even more, enjoy the delightful experience of sharing them with loved ones. Happy cooking!