Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas with Sautéed Greens
If you’re looking for a comforting dish that bursts with flavor and is easy to prepare, look no further than cheesy chicken enchiladas with sautéed greens. This delightful recipe combines the savory taste of seasoned chicken with creamy cheese and fresh greens, all wrapped in soft tortillas and smothered in enchilada sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this dish is bound to become a favorite!
Why make this recipe?
This recipe is not just delicious; it’s also a great way to incorporate protein and greens into your meal. The combination of cheesy goodness and nutritious sautéed greens makes for a balanced plate. It’s quick to prepare and offers a fantastic blend of flavors that will satisfy both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s versatile, allowing you to use leftover chicken and customize it to your liking!
How to prepare Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas with Sautéed Greens
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken 🍗
- 8 tortillas 🌮
- 2 cups enchilada sauce (red) 🍅
- 2 cups shredded cheese (mozzarella or Mexican blend) 🧀
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced 🌿
- 2 cups sautéed greens (e.g., spinach, kale) 🥬
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with half of the enchilada sauce and half of the shredded cheese. Mix well.
- Take each tortilla and spoon some of the chicken mixture onto the center. Add a handful of sautéed greens and a little more cheese if desired.
- Roll up the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat this for all tortillas.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once out of the oven, sprinkle with sliced green onions for a fresh touch. Enjoy your meal!
How to serve Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas with Sautéed Greens
Serve these cheesy chicken enchiladas hot, straight from the oven! They pair wonderfully with a side of avocado slices 🥑, sour cream, or fresh salsa 🌶️. You can also add a light salad on the side to enhance the meal.
How to store Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas with Sautéed Greens
If you have leftovers, store the enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick meal.
Tips for preparing Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas with Sautéed Greens
- Use store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Feel free to mix different kinds of cheese for added flavor.
- Add beans or corn to the chicken mixture for extra texture and nutrition.
- If you like a little heat, consider adding jalapeños 🌶️ to the filling or using a spicier enchilada sauce.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with black beans or a mix of sautéed vegetables.
- Spicy Enchiladas: Use a spicy enchilada sauce or add diced chili peppers to the filling for an extra kick.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze these enchiladas?
Yes! You can freeze these enchiladas before baking. Just wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
2. What kind of greens can I use?
Feel free to use any greens you like! Spinach, kale, chard, or even finer choices like arugula will work well.
3. How can I make these enchiladas healthier?
To make them healthier, use whole wheat tortillas, low-fat cheese, and add more vegetables. You can also adjust the amount of enchilada sauce to control the sodium content.
Now you’re ready to indulge in some delicious homemade cheesy chicken enchiladas with sautéed greens! Happy cooking! 🎉