Chicken Enchiladas II

Chicken Enchiladas II Recipe - Authentic Taste of Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken Enchiladas II is a delicious and flavorful Mexican dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. This recipe features tender chicken, melted cheese, and a tangy green sauce that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

History

Enchiladas have been a staple in Mexican cuisine for centuries, with variations of the dish dating back to the Mayan civilization. The dish typically consists of rolled tortillas filled with meat, cheese, beans, or vegetables, and topped with a savory sauce. Chicken Enchiladas II puts a modern twist on this classic recipe by incorporating a zesty green sauce made from tomatillos and green chilies.

Ingredients

3 chicken breasts
0.25 onion (diced)
0.5 tsp chili powder
0.5 tsp cumin
0.5 tsp garlic powder
12 oz (340 g) grated colby or jack cheese
vegetable oil
8 corn tortillas

Green Sauce

10 tomatillos (quartered)
0.5 onion (diced)
0.5 cup mild green chiles or 4.5 oz (128 g) can
3 tbsp vegetable oil
0.5 tsp salt
0.5 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
0.25 tsp cayenne pepper
0.5 cup water

How to prepare

Boil the chicken breasts until they are fully cooked and then cube them.
In a large pan with oil, sauté the chicken, spices, and onions until the onions become clear.
Allow the chicken to cool down and then add the cheese.
In an oiled skillet, cook the tortillas on each side until they become soft (approximately 10 seconds per side on medium-high heat).
Set the tortillas aside, stacking them to prevent drying, until they are cool enough to handle.
Place the chicken mixture in the center of each tortilla and roll them up.
Place the enchiladas in a 9-inch square dish and cover them with the green sauce.
In a saucepan, sauté the onion and garlic until the onions become clear.
Add the tomatillos, green chilies, paprika, and water to the saucepan and bring it to a boil.
Add the remaining ingredients, cover the saucepan, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
Allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes and then pour it into a blender.
Blend the mixture until you achieve your desired texture.
Please note that a finer mixture will cover the enchiladas better and bring out more flavor.
If you desire a hotter and spicier sauce, add hot jalapeños when adding the tomatillos and green chilies.

Variations

Substitute the chicken with beef, pork, or shrimp for a different flavor.
Use red enchilada sauce instead of green sauce for a traditional twist.
Add diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or black beans to the filling for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To save time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of boiling and cubing chicken breasts.

- Make sure to stack the cooked tortillas to prevent them from drying out while you prepare the filling.

- For a spicier sauce, add hot jalapeños to the green sauce mixture.

- To achieve a smoother sauce, blend the green sauce mixture until it reaches your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken Enchiladas II with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, and a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the chicken breasts until fully cooked before cubing them.

- Sauté the chicken, spices, and onions in a pan until the onions become clear.

- Cook the tortillas in a skillet until they become soft before filling and rolling them.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas for a gluten-free option.

- Substitute Monterey Jack cheese with cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

- Use canned green enchilada sauce instead of making the green sauce from scratch.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the green sauce and chicken filling ahead of time and assemble the enchiladas just before baking. Store the components separately in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Chicken Enchiladas II with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, and a dollop of sour cream for a colorful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chicken Enchiladas II with a refreshing margarita or a cold Mexican beer for a delicious and festive meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Chicken Enchiladas II in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chicken Enchiladas II contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chicken Enchiladas II contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chicken Enchiladas II contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Chicken Enchiladas II contains approximately 30 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Chicken Enchiladas II are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and wheat (tortillas).

Summary

Chicken Enchiladas II are a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious choice for a satisfying meal.

Summary

Chicken Enchiladas II are a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. With tender chicken, melted cheese, and a tangy green sauce, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly remember the moment I discovered this recipe for Chicken Enchiladas II. It was during a family gathering at my sister's house many years ago. My sister's mother-in-law, Mrs. Rodriguez, brought a dish that was a hit with everyone at the table. The aroma of the chicken, spices, and cheese filled the air, and I couldn't resist asking her for the recipe.

Mrs. Rodriguez graciously shared her recipe with me, explaining each step in detail and even giving me some tips on how to make the dish even more delicious. I was grateful for her generosity and couldn't wait to try it out at home.

The next day, I gathered all the ingredients I needed to make the Chicken Enchiladas II. I seasoned the chicken with a blend of spices, cooked it to perfection, and shredded it into tender pieces. I then assembled the enchiladas with the chicken, cheese, and a homemade enchilada sauce that I had simmered on the stove.

As I placed the enchiladas in the oven to bake, the tantalizing aroma filled my kitchen, just like it had at my sister's house. I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish and share it with my family.

When the enchiladas came out of the oven, golden brown and bubbling with cheese, I knew I had a new favorite recipe in my collection. The combination of tender chicken, gooey cheese, and flavorful sauce was simply irresistible.

Over the years, I have made Chicken Enchiladas II countless times for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions. Each time, it receives rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I always credit Mrs. Rodriguez for introducing me to this delicious dish and teaching me how to make it just right.

As I reflect on the journey of discovering this recipe, I am reminded of the importance of sharing food and recipes with loved ones. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with my family, friends, and community. It brings people together, creates memories, and nourishes the soul.

I am grateful for the recipes I have learned from various places and people over the years. Each one tells a story, whether it's a cherished family recipe passed down through generations or a new dish shared by a friend. Cooking is a way to honor those who have influenced my culinary journey and to create new traditions for future generations.

In the end, it's not just about the ingredients or the steps in a recipe. It's about the love, memories, and connections that food can bring. And for me, Chicken Enchiladas II will always hold a special place in my heart as a reminder of the joy of cooking and sharing delicious meals with the ones I love.