Sweet and Spicy Homemade Chicken Enchiladas 🌶️🍗

These homemade chicken enchiladas are bursting with flavor and packed with wholesome ingredients. They are perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. The blend of spices in the filling, combined with a zesty homemade enchilada sauce, creates a delicious meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Serve with a side of guacamole and tortilla chips for a true fiesta! 🎉

Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 cup cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack), shredded
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
• 8 small corn tortillas

For the Enchilada Sauce

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt to taste

For Topping

• 1 cup cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack), shredded
• Optional garnishes: sour cream, avocado, cilantro, sliced jalapeños

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the sauce: In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add tomato sauce, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes until slightly thickened.

3. Make the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, half of the shredded cheese, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and cilantro. Mix well.

4. Assemble the enchiladas:

   • Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave to make them pliable.
   • Spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken filling into each tortilla, roll them up, and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.

5. Top with sauce: Pour the enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, making sure to cover them well. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.

6. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve hot: Garnish with sour cream, avocado, fresh cilantro, or jalapeños as desired.

🐔 For extra flavor, marinate the shredded chicken in lime juice and your favorite spices before cooking. This will elevate the taste of your enchiladas!

Variations

• Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with black beans, sautéed peppers, and zucchini for a hearty twist.
• Spicy: Add diced jalapeños to the filling or use a spicy salsa in place of the tomato sauce.
• Creamy: Mix cream cheese with the filling for a richer texture and flavor.
• Cheesy: Layer additional cheese between the tortillas for an extra cheesy experience!

Enjoy your delightful, homemade chicken enchiladas with family and friends! 🌟