Easy & Delicious Ground Chicken Enchiladas: A Family Favorite Recipe

Italian Chef Team

3 months ago

Easy & Delicious Ground Chicken Enchiladas: A Family Favorite Recipe

Craving a satisfying and flavorful Mexican-inspired meal? Look no further than these Ground Chicken Enchiladas! They’re packed with savory seasoned chicken, melty cheese, and a vibrant enchilada sauce, all wrapped in soft tortillas and baked to golden perfection. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, and it’s sure to become a family favorite.

These enchiladas are incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize the fillings and toppings to your liking. Add black beans, corn, or your favorite vegetables to the chicken mixture. Use different types of cheese, or swap the red enchilada sauce for a green one. The possibilities are endless!

Let’s dive into the details and learn how to make these mouthwatering Ground Chicken Enchiladas.

## Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Easy to Make:** This recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for beginner cooks.
* **Flavorful and Satisfying:** The combination of seasoned ground chicken, cheese, and enchilada sauce creates a truly delicious and satisfying meal.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt the recipe to your own tastes and preferences.
* **Family-Friendly:** Kids and adults alike will love these enchiladas.
* **Make-Ahead Option:** Prepare the enchiladas ahead of time and bake them when you’re ready to eat.
* **Budget-Friendly:** Ground chicken is a relatively inexpensive protein, making this a budget-friendly meal option.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to create these amazing Ground Chicken Enchiladas:

* **Ground Chicken:** The star of the show! Use lean ground chicken for a healthier option.
* **Onion:** Adds flavor and aromatics to the chicken filling. Yellow or white onion works well.
* **Bell Pepper:** Contributes color, flavor, and nutrients. Red, green, or yellow bell peppers are all great choices.
* **Garlic:** Essential for adding depth of flavor to the chicken mixture. Freshly minced garlic is recommended.
* **Chili Powder:** Provides a mild heat and smoky flavor. Adjust the amount to your preference.
* **Cumin:** Adds a warm and earthy flavor.
* **Oregano:** A classic Mexican spice that enhances the overall flavor profile.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To season the chicken mixture to perfection.
* **Enchilada Sauce:** Use your favorite store-bought or homemade enchilada sauce. Red sauce is traditional, but green sauce works well too.
* **Corn Tortillas:** Choose your preferred size and type of corn tortillas. Warm them before filling to make them more pliable and prevent them from cracking.
* **Shredded Cheese:** Use your favorite melting cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend. A combination of cheeses adds complexity and flavor.
* **Optional Toppings:** Sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, and green onions are all delicious toppings.

**Detailed Ingredient List:**

* 1 pound ground chicken
* 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
* 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon chili powder
* 1 teaspoon cumin
* 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 2 cups enchilada sauce, divided
* 12 corn tortillas
* 2 cups shredded cheese, divided (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
* Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, green onions

## Equipment You’ll Need

* Large skillet
* 9×13 inch baking dish
* Measuring spoons and cups
* Spatula
* Tongs
* Small bowl for warming tortillas (optional)

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create perfectly delicious Ground Chicken Enchiladas:

**1. Prepare the Chicken Filling:**

* Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground chicken, onion, and bell pepper.
* Cook, breaking up the chicken with a spatula, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are softened. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
* Drain off any excess grease from the skillet.
* Add the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
* Cook for another minute, allowing the spices to bloom and release their flavors.
* Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.

**2. Warm the Tortillas:**

* This step is crucial to prevent the tortillas from cracking when you roll them. There are several ways to warm tortillas:
* **Microwave:** Wrap the tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30-60 seconds, or until they are pliable.
* **Oven:** Wrap the tortillas in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
* **Skillet:** Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Warm each tortilla for a few seconds per side, until pliable.

**3. Assemble the Enchiladas:**

* Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
* Spread about 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
* One at a time, dip a tortilla into the remaining enchilada sauce, coating both sides. This helps to soften the tortilla and add flavor.
* Place the sauced tortilla on a plate. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken filling down the center of the tortilla.
* Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of shredded cheese over the chicken filling.
* Roll up the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas, chicken filling, and cheese.

**4. Bake the Enchiladas:**

* Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the enchiladas in the baking dish.
* Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top.
* Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the enchiladas are heated through.

**5. Garnish and Serve:**

* Remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
* Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, and green onions.
* Serve immediately and enjoy!

**Detailed Step-by-Step Breakdown:**

**Step 1: Preparing the Chicken Filling**

1. **Heat the Skillet:** Place a large skillet on your stovetop and turn the heat to medium. Allow the skillet to heat up for a minute or two before adding your ingredients.
2. **Sauté the Aromatics:** Add the chopped yellow onion and chopped bell pepper to the heated skillet. Cook these vegetables for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften. This step helps to release their flavors and create a base for the chicken filling.
3. **Cook the Ground Chicken:** Add the 1 pound of ground chicken to the skillet. Use a spatula to break up the chicken into smaller pieces. Cook the chicken until it is no longer pink and is fully cooked through. This should take approximately 5-7 minutes. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
4. **Drain Excess Grease:** If there is any excess grease in the skillet after cooking the chicken, carefully drain it off. This step helps to prevent the enchiladas from becoming greasy.
5. **Add Garlic and Spices:** Add the 2 minced cloves of garlic, 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, ½ teaspoon of dried oregano, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine the spices with the chicken and vegetables.
6. **Cook Spices:** Continue to cook the mixture for another minute, stirring constantly. This allows the spices to bloom and release their aromatic oils, enhancing the overall flavor of the filling.
7. **Remove from Heat:** Once the spices are cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and set the chicken filling aside. This allows the flavors to meld together while you prepare the tortillas.

**Step 2: Warming the Tortillas**

1. **Choose Your Method:** Warming the corn tortillas is a critical step to prevent them from cracking when you roll them. You can choose one of the following methods:
* **Microwave Method:** Wrap the 12 corn tortillas in a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, or until the tortillas are pliable. Be careful not to overheat them, as they can become tough.
* **Oven Method:** Wrap the tortillas in aluminum foil. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the tortillas for 10-15 minutes, or until they are warm and pliable.
* **Skillet Method:** Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Warm each tortilla individually for a few seconds on each side, until it becomes pliable. This method requires a bit more attention, but it’s quick and effective.

**Step 3: Assembling the Enchiladas**

1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when you’re ready to bake the enchiladas.
2. **Prepare the Baking Dish:** Spread about ½ cup of enchilada sauce evenly in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. This layer of sauce will prevent the enchiladas from sticking and add flavor to the bottom.
3. **Sauce the Tortillas:** One at a time, dip each warmed tortilla into the remaining enchilada sauce, coating both sides. This step not only softens the tortillas but also infuses them with the delicious flavor of the enchilada sauce.
4. **Fill the Tortillas:** Place a sauced tortilla on a plate. Spoon about ¼ cup of the chicken filling down the center of the tortilla. Be careful not to overfill the tortilla, as this can make it difficult to roll.
5. **Add Cheese:** Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of shredded cheese over the chicken filling in each tortilla. The cheese will melt and create a gooey, flavorful center.
6. **Roll the Enchiladas:** Roll up the tortilla tightly, starting from one end and continuing until you have a complete roll. Place the rolled enchilada seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. This prevents the enchiladas from unrolling during baking.
7. **Repeat the Process:** Repeat steps 3-6 with the remaining tortillas, chicken filling, and cheese until all enchiladas are assembled in the baking dish.

**Step 4: Baking the Enchiladas**

1. **Pour Remaining Sauce:** Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the enchiladas in the baking dish. Ensure that all enchiladas are covered with sauce to keep them moist during baking.
2. **Sprinkle with Cheese:** Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of shredded cheese evenly over the top of the enchiladas. This creates a cheesy, bubbly topping that is visually appealing and adds extra flavor.
3. **Bake:** Bake the enchiladas in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the enchiladas are heated through. The enchiladas should be golden brown and the sauce should be simmering.

**Step 5: Garnishing and Serving**

1. **Cool Slightly:** Remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. This allows the cheese to set a bit and prevents the enchiladas from being too hot to handle.
2. **Garnish:** Garnish the enchiladas with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, and green onions. These toppings add flavor, texture, and visual appeal to the dish.
3. **Serve:** Serve the Ground Chicken Enchiladas immediately. They are best enjoyed fresh and hot.

## Tips and Variations

* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken filling for extra heat.
* **Add vegetables:** Mix in chopped black beans, corn, zucchini, or spinach to the chicken filling for added nutrients and flavor.
* **Use different cheese:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack, Oaxaca, or queso fresco.
* **Make it vegetarian:** Substitute the ground chicken with cooked lentils or crumbled tofu.
* **Use different tortillas:** Try using flour tortillas for a softer texture.
* **Make it ahead:** Assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake them just before serving.
* **Freeze it:** Assemble the enchiladas and freeze them unbaked. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
* **Creamy Enchiladas:** Stir in cream cheese or sour cream to the chicken filling for creamier enchiladas.
* **Green Enchiladas:** Use green enchilada sauce (salsa verde) instead of red sauce.

## Serving Suggestions

These Ground Chicken Enchiladas are delicious on their own, but they’re even better when served with some complementary side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:

* **Mexican Rice:** A classic side dish that pairs perfectly with enchiladas.
* **Refried Beans:** Another classic Mexican side dish that adds protein and fiber to the meal.
* **Guacamole and Chips:** A great appetizer or side dish to enjoy while the enchiladas are baking.
* **Salsa and Sour Cream:** Essential toppings for enchiladas.
* **Mexican Salad:** A refreshing salad with lettuce, tomatoes, corn, black beans, and a zesty dressing.
* **Elote (Mexican Street Corn):** A flavorful and grilled corn on the cob with mayonnaise, cheese, and chili powder.

## Nutritional Information (approximate)

Nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. However, here is an approximate breakdown per serving (1 enchilada):

* Calories: 350-450
* Protein: 25-35g
* Fat: 15-25g
* Carbohydrates: 25-35g
* Fiber: 5-7g

## Ground Chicken Enchiladas Recipe Card

**Yields:** 12 enchiladas
**Prep Time:** 20 minutes
**Cook Time:** 25 minutes

**Ingredients:**

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground chicken, onion, and bell pepper. Cook until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are softened. Drain any excess grease.
3. Add garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for 1 minute.
4. Warm tortillas using your preferred method (microwave, oven, or skillet).
5. Spread 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Dip each tortilla in the remaining enchilada sauce, coating both sides.
7. Place the sauced tortilla on a plate. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken filling down the center of the tortilla. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of shredded cheese.
8. Roll up the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas, chicken filling, and cheese.
9. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the enchiladas in the baking dish.
10. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top.
11. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the enchiladas are heated through.
12. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with your favorite toppings and serve immediately.

Enjoy these delicious and easy Ground Chicken Enchiladas! They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion.

Tags: Recipes