Chicken and Red Bean Enchiladas: A Flavor Fiesta!

These Chicken and Red Bean Enchiladas are a delightful twist on a classic Mexican favorite. They’re packed with savory shredded chicken, hearty red beans, flavorful spices, and melty cheese, all wrapped in warm tortillas and smothered in a delicious sauce. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing weekend meal. It’s relatively easy to make, and you can customize it to your liking by adding different vegetables, spices, or toppings. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more!

## Why You’ll Love These Enchiladas

* **Flavorful:** The combination of chicken, red beans, spices, and sauce creates a complex and satisfying flavor profile.
* **Hearty:** These enchiladas are filling and satisfying, perfect for a hungry family.
* **Easy to Make:** While they look impressive, these enchiladas are relatively easy to put together.
* **Customizable:** You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
* **Great for Leftovers:** Enchiladas are even better the next day, making them perfect for meal prepping.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Chicken:** Cooked and shredded chicken is the star of the show. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your own chicken breasts or thighs.
* **Red Beans:** Canned red beans add heartiness and protein to the filling. Be sure to drain and rinse them before using.
* **Onion and Garlic:** These aromatics form the base of the flavor profile.
* **Spices:** Chili powder, cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika create a warm and savory flavor.
* **Tomato Sauce:** Tomato sauce provides the base for the enchilada sauce.
* **Chicken Broth:** Chicken broth adds moisture and flavor to the sauce.
* **Corn Tortillas:** Corn tortillas are the traditional choice for enchiladas, but you can also use flour tortillas if you prefer.
* **Cheese:** Cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, or a Mexican cheese blend are all great options for topping the enchiladas.
* **Olive Oil:** For sautéing the vegetables.
* **Optional Toppings:** Sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, olives, jalapenos.

## Detailed Recipe

### Yields

6-8 servings

### Prep time

30 minutes

### Cook time

30 minutes

### Ingredients:

**For the Chicken Filling:**

* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 pound cooked and shredded chicken (about 3 cups)
* 1 (15-ounce) can red beans, drained and rinsed
* 1 teaspoon chili powder
* 1 teaspoon cumin
* 1/2 teaspoon oregano
* 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

**For the Enchilada Sauce:**

* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1 cup chicken broth
* 1 teaspoon chili powder
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
* Salt and pepper to taste

**For Assembly:**

* 12 corn tortillas
* 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, or Mexican blend
* Optional toppings: Sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, olives, jalapenos

### Equipment

* Large skillet
* 9×13 inch baking dish

### Instructions

**Get Started:**

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

**Prepare the Chicken Filling:**

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
4. Add shredded chicken, red beans, chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
5. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until heated through, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and set aside.

**Make the Enchilada Sauce:**

1. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Whisk in all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in tomato sauce and chicken broth until smooth.
4. Add chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

**Assemble the Enchiladas:**

1. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Pour a thin layer of enchilada sauce into the bottom of the dish to prevent the tortillas from sticking.
3. To soften the tortillas, you can either lightly fry them in a skillet with a little oil for a few seconds per side or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30-60 seconds.
4. Dip each tortilla in the enchilada sauce, coating both sides.
5. Place a spoonful of the chicken and red bean filling in the center of the tortilla.
6. Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
7. Roll up the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
8. Repeat with the remaining tortillas, filling, and cheese.

**Bake the Enchiladas:**

1. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled enchiladas.
2. Sprinkle with the remaining shredded cheese.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the enchiladas are heated through.

**Serve:**

1. Let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, olives, and jalapenos.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

## Tips and Variations

* **Make it Vegetarian:** Omit the chicken and add more red beans, black beans, or other vegetables like corn, bell peppers, or zucchini.
* **Add Some Heat:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeno to the filling or sauce for extra spice.
* **Use Different Cheese:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or queso fresco.
* **Make it Creamy:** Add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the filling for a creamier texture.
* **Use Different Tortillas:** While corn tortillas are traditional, you can use flour tortillas if you prefer. Flour tortillas are generally easier to roll and less likely to crack.
* **Make Ahead:** You can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add the sauce and cheese just before baking.
* **Freeze for Later:** Assemble the enchiladas (without the sauce and cheese) and freeze them for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then add the sauce and cheese and bake as directed.
* **Use Rotisserie Chicken:** Save time by using rotisserie chicken for the filling.
* **Add Vegetables:** Sauté some chopped bell peppers, onions, or zucchini along with the garlic to add more nutrients and flavor to the filling.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a can of diced green chilies to the filling for an extra kick.
* **Layering:** For a casserole-style enchilada dish, you can layer the tortillas, filling, sauce, and cheese in a baking dish instead of rolling them.

## Serving Suggestions

These Chicken and Red Bean Enchiladas are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of side dishes.

* **Mexican Rice:** A classic side dish that complements the flavors of the enchiladas.
* **Refried Beans:** Another classic side dish that adds more protein and fiber to the meal.
* **Guacamole and Chips:** A perfect appetizer or side dish for dipping.
* **Salsa and Tortilla Chips:** Another great appetizer or side dish.
* **Mexican Corn Salad:** A refreshing and flavorful salad that balances the richness of the enchiladas.
* **Side Salad:** A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)

* Calories: 450-550
* Protein: 30-40g
* Fat: 20-30g
* Carbohydrates: 40-50g
* Fiber: 10-15g

**Note:** Nutritional information can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

## Conclusion

These Chicken and Red Bean Enchiladas are a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With their customizable ingredients and relatively easy preparation, they’re sure to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious fiesta of flavors! Don’t forget to experiment with different toppings and variations to make them your own. Enjoy!