Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas Recipe: Creamy, Cheesy, Irresistible!
When it comes to comfort food, Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas are at the top of the list. These creamy, cheesy enchiladas are packed with flavor, combining tender shredded chicken with a rich, savory sauce that’s nothing short of irresistible. Whether you’re serving family dinner or hosting a gathering, this dish is a guaranteed hit. The best part? It’s easy to make, making it perfect for both weeknights and special occasions. Let’s dive into how you can make these delectable enchiladas at home.
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Ingredients and Their Roles
1. 8-10 flour tortillas: The perfect vehicle for holding all the delicious fillings together. Soft and pliable, they make rolling a breeze.
2. 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, divided: Adds richness and creaminess to both the filling and the sauce, enhancing the dish’s texture.
3. 1-2 (4-ounce) cans of green peppers: Bring a mild kick and tangy flavor, balancing the richness of the cream cheese.
4. 3 cups cooked grated chicken: The star of the filling—moist, tender, and protein-packed. Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
5. 2 cups Mexican cheese, divided: A blend of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and other cheeses melts beautifully, creating a gooey, flavorful topping.
6. 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: The base for the creamy sauce, adding depth and moisture.
7. 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Helps form the roux for the sauce, ensuring a silky texture.
8. 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to create that luscious consistency.
9. 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds a hint of brightness, cutting through the richness.
10. 1 teaspoon cumin: Offers warm, earthy undertones that complement the chicken and green peppers.
11. 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: Adds subtle heat and a touch of smoky flavor.
12. Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
13. Fresh coriander (optional): For a burst of freshness as a garnish.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
1. In a large bowl, combine 1/2 of the cream cheese, the grated chicken, 1 cup of the Mexican cheese, and the green peppers.
2. Mix until the ingredients are evenly distributed. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk continuously to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, ensuring there’s no raw flour taste.
3. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the remaining 1/2 of the cream cheese, lemon juice, cumin, and chili powder. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Lay a flour tortilla flat and spoon 3-4 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the center. Roll tightly and place seam-side down in the prepared dish. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
4. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the enchiladas.
5. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Mexican cheese over the top.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
1. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
3. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander if desired.
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Why This Recipe Is Loved
Creamy and Cheesy: Every bite is a perfect balance of creamy sauce and gooey cheese.
Customizable: Add sautéed veggies or switch up the cheese blend to make it your own.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or game nights.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Enchiladas
Use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing.
Avoid overfilling the tortillas to prevent them from bursting.
For extra flavor, lightly toast the tortillas before filling them.
Double the sauce if you prefer extra sauciness.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair these enchiladas with:
A side of Mexican rice or refried beans for a classic combo.
A crisp green salad with a tangy lime dressing.
Guacamole and salsa for dipping.
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Conclusion
These Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas are a must-try recipe, offering a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors in every bite. Whether you’re new to enchilada-making or a seasoned pro, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. It’s the kind of di
sh that will have your family and guests asking for seconds—and the recipe. So why wait? Bring a little fiesta to your kitchen tonight and savor the goodness!
