Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Your Next Meal

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that combines creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors, look no further than Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas. This recipe is a perfect blend of tender shredded chicken, creamy cream cheese, tangy sour cream, and zesty green chilies, all wrapped in soft tortillas and smothered in rich red enchilada sauce. Topped with gooey melted cheese, these enchiladas are a guaranteed hit for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep.

In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas, including step-by-step instructions, tips for success, and ideas for serving. Plus, we’ll share some helpful notes on how to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Let’s dive in!

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Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

1. Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and green chilies creates a rich and tangy filling that’s irresistible.
2. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks.
3. Versatile: You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your own. Plus, you can customize the spice level and toppings to suit your taste.
4. Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, these enchiladas are sure to impress.

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Ingredients for Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

For the Enchilada Filling:

• 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the onions and garlic.
• ½ cup chopped yellow or white onion: Adds a sweet and savory flavor.
• 3 fresh garlic cloves, chopped: For a punch of aromatic goodness.
• ½ fresh jalapeno, chopped (optional): Adds a hint of heat.
• 2 ½ cups cooked, shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates a creamy and rich filling.
• 4 oz sour cream: Adds tanginess and creaminess.
• 4 oz can chopped green chilies: Provides a mild, zesty flavor.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the overall taste.

For Assembling the Enchiladas:

• 10-12 flour tortillas or yellow corn tortillas: Soft taco size works best.
• 20 oz red enchilada sauce: Store-bought or homemade.
• 8 oz block cheese, shredded: Use Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, Pepper Jack, or Cheddar.

For Serving:

• Toppings: Avocado, cilantro, and green onions.
• Side Dishes: Shredded lettuce with pico de gallo, refried beans, or Mexican rice.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your enchiladas bake evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onions, garlic, and jalapenos (if using) in olive oil for about 5 minutes until softened.
2. In a large bowl, combine the sautéed onion mixture, shredded chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, green chilies, and salt. Mix well until the cream cheese and sour cream are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas

1. Lightly spray a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray or coat it with a little oil. Pour about 5 oz (½ cup) of enchilada sauce into the bottom of the dish to coat it.
2. Place about 3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture down the center of each tortilla. Sprinkle with a little shredded cheese, then roll the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the baking dish.
3. Repeat until all the filling is used or the dish is full.

Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese

1. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled enchiladas, ensuring they’re fully covered.
2. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake

1. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Let Cool and Serve

Allow the enchiladas to cool for about 15 minutes before serving. Garnish with avocado, cilantro, and green onions, and serve with your favorite sides.

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The History and Popularity of Enchiladas

Enchiladas have a rich history that dates back to ancient Mesoamerican civilizations. The word “enchilada” comes from the Spanish word “enchilar,” which means “to season with chili.” However, the concept of wrapping food in tortillas predates the Spanish conquest of the Americas. The Aztecs are believed to have been the first to create a dish similar to modern enchiladas, using corn tortillas to wrap around fish or other fillings. Over time, the dish evolved, incorporating ingredients introduced by Spanish colonizers, such as cheese, meat, and various spices.

Today, enchiladas are a staple in Mexican cuisine and have gained immense popularity worldwide. Their versatility is one of the reasons for their widespread appeal. Enchiladas can be filled with a variety of ingredients, including beans, cheese, vegetables, and meats like chicken, beef, or pork. They are typically smothered in a flavorful sauce, such as red or green enchilada sauce, and topped with melted cheese. The dish is then baked to perfection, resulting in a comforting and satisfying meal.

The Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas recipe is a modern twist on this classic dish. By adding cream cheese and sour cream to the filling, this version offers a creamy and indulgent flavor profile that sets it apart from traditional recipes. The combination of tender shredded chicken, zesty green chilies, and rich cream cheese creates a filling that is both flavorful and comforting. Topped with red enchilada sauce and gooey melted cheese, these enchiladas are a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

Enchiladas are also incredibly versatile, making them perfect for customization. Whether you prefer a spicier version with extra jalapenos or a milder version with less heat, you can easily adjust the recipe to suit your taste. Additionally, enchiladas can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient option for busy weeknights or entertaining.

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 Tips for Perfecting Your Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas

Making Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas is relatively straightforward, but a few tips and tricks can help you achieve the best results. Here are some expert suggestions to ensure your enchiladas turn out perfectly every time:

1. Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese mixes more easily with the other ingredients, creating a smoother and more cohesive filling. If your cream cheese is too cold, it can result in a lumpy mixture.
2. Shred Your Own Cheese: While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, shredding your own cheese from a block ensures a fresher and creamier melt. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect its texture when melted.
3. Warm Your Tortillas: Whether you’re using flour or corn tortillas, warming them before assembling the enchiladas is crucial. For corn tortillas, this step is especially important to prevent cracking. You can warm them in the microwave wrapped in damp paper towels or lightly fry them in a skillet.
4. Don’t Overfill the Tortillas: While it might be tempting to add more filling, overfilling can make it difficult to roll the tortillas neatly. Aim for about 3 tablespoons of filling per tortilla.
5. Use a Good Quality Enchilada Sauce: The sauce is a key component of the dish, so opt for a high-quality store-bought sauce or make your own using a trusted recipe. A flavorful sauce can elevate the entire dish.
6. Let the Enchiladas Rest Before Serving: Allowing the enchiladas to cool for about 15 minutes after baking helps them set and makes them easier to serve. This also gives the flavors time to meld together.

By following these tips, you can create Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas that are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, these enchiladas are sure to impress.

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 Customizing Your Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas

One of the best things about Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas is how easy they are to customize. Whether you want to adjust the spice level, switch up the filling, or experiment with different toppings, this recipe is highly adaptable. Here are some ideas to help you make this dish your own:

1. Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, you can omit the jalapeno or reduce the amount of green chilies. On the other hand, if you love heat, consider adding diced serrano peppers or using a spicier enchilada sauce.
2. Switch Up the Protein: While shredded chicken is the star of this recipe, you can easily substitute it with other proteins. Ground beef, shredded pork, or even black beans (for a vegetarian option) work well in this dish.
3. Experiment with Cheese: The type of cheese you use can significantly impact the flavor of your enchiladas. Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, and Cheddar are popular choices, but you can also try Pepper Jack for a spicy kick or a blend of cheeses for added complexity.
4. Add Vegetables: Incorporate additional vegetables into the filling for extra nutrition and flavor. Diced bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini are great options.
5. Try Different Sauces: While red enchilada sauce is traditional, you can experiment with other sauces, such as green enchilada sauce or a creamy poblano sauce, for a unique twist.
6. Top It Your Way: The toppings you choose can add texture and freshness to the dish. Avocado, cilantro, green onions, and sour cream are classic choices, but you can also try pickled red onions, sliced radishes, or a drizzle of crema.

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Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 5 servings):

• Calories: 764 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 47g
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 50g
• Saturated Fat: 25g
• Cholesterol: 142mg
• Sodium: 2195mg
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 14g

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Serving Suggestions

Pair your Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas with these delicious sides:

• Instant Pot Mexican Rice: A flavorful and easy side dish.
• 15-Minute Refried Beans: Quick and satisfying.
• Shredded Lettuce with Pico de Gallo: Adds a fresh and crunchy contrast.
• Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: Perfect for dipping.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Corn Tortillas Instead of Flour Tortillas?

Yes, you can use corn tortillas. Just be sure to warm them first to prevent cracking.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Assemble the enchiladas without the sauce and cheese, cover, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Add the sauce and cheese before baking.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Can I Freeze Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas?

Yes! Assemble the enchiladas without baking, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.

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Final Thoughts

Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas are a delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With their creamy filling, zesty sauce, and gooey cheese topping, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Plus, this recipe is easy to customize and make ahead, making it a great option for busy weeknights or entertaining.