How to Make Chicken Enchilada Quick and Easy

Introduction

Mexican cuisine, a culinary tradition steeped in history and culture, offers a vibrant fusion of flavors that has captivated food lovers worldwide. Among the myriad of dishes that this cuisine boasts, one stands out for its popularity and deliciousness – the Chicken Enchilada. This dish, a delightful combination of tender chicken, hearty tortillas, and a tangy sauce, all baked to perfection, is a testament to the ingenuity and flavor profile of Mexican cooking.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup of shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar)
• 8 corn tortillas
• 1 can of enchilada sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a pan over medium heat, cook the chicken breasts until they’re no longer pink in the middle. Remove from the pan and let cool. After it has cooled down, use two forks to shred the chicken.
3. In the same pan, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
4. Mix the shredded chicken, cooked onion, and garlic together in a bowl. Add salt and pepper to taste.
5. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat to make them more pliable.
6. Spoon the chicken mixture onto each tortilla, roll them up, and place them seam-side down in a baking dish.
7. Pour the enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, making sure they’re completely covered. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Variations

There are many variations of enchiladas, including Enchiladas Suizas (Swiss Enchiladas), which are topped with a creamy white sauce, and Enchiladas Verdes (Green Enchiladas), which use a green tomatillo sauce. Each variation offers a unique flavor profile, allowing you to explore the diverse tastes of Mexican cuisine.

Fun Facts

• The term “enchilada” originates from the Spanish term “enchilar”, which signifies “to flavor with chili”.
• Enchiladas originated in Mexico, where they were known as “chillapitzalli”, which is Nahuatl for “chili flute”.
• Origin: The Chicken Enchilada, as we know it today, is an evolution of ancient dishes from Mexico. Originally, people in the Valley of Mexico would eat corn tortillas wrapped around small fish.
• Variations: There are many variations of enchiladas, including Enchiladas Suizas (Swiss Enchiladas), which are topped with a creamy white sauce, and Enchiladas Verdes (Green Enchiladas), which use a green tomatillo sauce.
• Refried beans play a crucial role in enhancing the filling of our enchiladas, allowing us to create large and satisfying portions without relying heavily on chicken. These beans work behind the scenes, binding everything together and adding a delightful juiciness to the dish.
• Enchilada Sauce: The enchilada sauce is thickened with flour and flavored with chicken broth and enchilada spices. A simple 5-minute mix and boil job. And light-years better than store-bought.
• Chicken Filling: We coat the chicken in homemade Enchilada Spice Mix and then sear it to lock in maximum flavor. The smell when it hits the pan is incredibly good.
• Assembly and Baking: It’s best to cool the filling slightly so it thickens a bit, making it easier to roll.
• Popularity: Chicken enchiladas are one of the most popular Mexican dishes and are often made for weeknight dinners due to their ease of preparation.
• Authentic Ingredients: If you’re looking to go super authentic and use real Mexican cheeses, a blend of Oaxaca or Asadero is recommended.

Health Benefits

1. Protein: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Moreover, it promotes a sensation of fullness and fulfillment within you.
2. Fiber: If you use whole grain tortillas, you can increase the fiber content of the dish. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help to prevent heart disease, diabetes, weight gain and some types of cancer.
3. Calcium: The cheese in Chicken Enchiladas provides a good source of calcium, which is necessary for healthy bones and teeth.
4. Vitamins and Minerals: Onions and garlic provide essential vitamins and minerals. These foods are packed with vitamin C, B vitamins, potassium, and iron.
5. Antioxidants: The spices and herbs used in the enchilada sauce, such as chili powder and oregano, contain antioxidants that can help to protect your cells from damage.
6. Healthy Fats: If you add avocados or guacamole to your Chicken Enchiladas, you’ll get a dose of healthy fats, which are good for heart health.