Easy Chicken Enchilada Recipe (Cream of Chicken)

This article details a simplified chicken enchilada recipe using cream of chicken soup, offering a convenient and flavorful approach to this classic dish. The recipe prioritizes ease of preparation while maintaining a satisfying taste, making it ideal for busy weeknights or beginner cooks. This method streamlines the traditional process, relying on readily available ingredients for a quick and delicious meal. The result is a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for casual dining or family gatherings. Understanding the process and variations ensures a consistently pleasing outcome, allowing for customization based on individual preferences.

This streamlined chicken enchilada approach offers a significant advantage in terms of time efficiency. The use of cream of chicken soup eliminates the need for complex sauce preparation, reducing the overall cooking time considerably. This recipe is particularly beneficial for those with limited culinary experience, as it simplifies several steps commonly associated with more involved enchilada recipes. The consistent flavor profile achieved through the use of cream of chicken soup makes it a reliable option, producing predictable results every time. This method allows for greater focus on other aspects of meal preparation, like sides or garnishes, making it an efficient choice for larger gatherings. The recipe’s simplicity also permits easy adaptation to individual dietary needs and preferences, such as the addition of vegetables or different types of cheese.

Ingredients for Chicken Enchilada Recipe

• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 corn tortillas
• Cooking spray

Instructions for Chicken Enchilada Recipe

1. Preheat oven to 350F (175C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, green chilies, cheddar cheese, shredded chicken, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
4. Fill each tortilla with about 1/3 cup of the chicken mixture.
5. Roll up the tortillas and place them seam-down in the prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
7. Let cool slightly before serving.

Estimated Time and Servings for Chicken Enchilada Recipe

This simplified chicken enchilada recipe is designed for efficiency. The prep time is minimal, focusing on combining ingredients, and the baking time is relatively short. This makes it ideal for weeknight meals or occasions where a quick and satisfying dish is needed. The precise cooking time might vary slightly depending on oven temperature and the desired level of browning. The recipe’s simplicity allows for easy scaling to accommodate different group sizes. A larger baking dish can be used to increase the number of servings, maintaining the same cooking time and consistent flavor. Remember to adjust baking time if making a larger batch.

Nutritional Information for Chicken Enchilada Recipe

The nutritional content of this chicken enchilada recipe is primarily determined by the ingredients used. The cream of chicken soup contributes to the overall calorie and fat content, while the chicken provides protein. The cheese adds further calories and fat, as well as calcium. The vegetables contribute fiber and vitamins. A precise nutritional analysis would require specific brand information for the canned ingredients and would vary slightly depending on the type and amount of cheese used. For a more accurate breakdown, consult a nutrition calculator using specific product details.

Please note that the following nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used. It is crucial to use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients for precise values. This table serves as a general guideline only.

Tips for Cooking Chicken Enchiladas

Achieving optimal results when making chicken enchiladas involves attention to detail and a few key techniques. Proper preparation of ingredients, such as ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and shredded, contributes to the overall quality of the dish. Careful handling of the tortillas prevents breakage and ensures even cooking. Monitoring the baking process and adjusting the time as needed guarantees a perfectly cooked and bubbly final product. Experimentation with different cheeses or the addition of vegetables can further enhance the flavor profile and nutritional value. Remember to let the enchiladas rest slightly after baking to allow the filling to set and the flavors to meld before serving.

1. Use warmed tortillas:

   Warming the tortillas slightly before filling prevents them from cracking and makes them easier to roll. You can warm them in a microwave or oven briefly.

2. Don’t overfill:

   Overfilling the tortillas makes them difficult to roll and can lead to spills in the baking dish. Aim for a consistent amount of filling in each tortilla for even cooking and presentation.

3. Use a good quality cheese:

   The cheese contributes significantly to the flavor and texture of the enchiladas. Consider using a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.

4. Add extra vegetables:

   Incorporate diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms into the filling for added flavor and nutrition.

5. Top with extra cheese:

   Sprinkling extra cheese over the enchiladas before baking adds a nice, crispy layer on top.

6. Serve with toppings:
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   Garnish your enchiladas with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or chopped cilantro for a more complete dining experience.

The simplicity of this recipe makes it a versatile choice for various occasions. Its ease of preparation is appealing for busy weeknights, while the satisfying flavor and adaptability make it suitable for more formal gatherings. Adjusting the spice level or adding different ingredients can easily tailor the dish to a wider range of palates, creating a customizable and enjoyable culinary experience for everyone involved. The convenience of utilizing readily available ingredients makes this recipe both practical and appealing.

The versatility and efficiency of this method offer significant benefits, making it a valuable addition to any cook’s repertoire. It effectively balances convenience with flavor, providing a satisfying meal without the complexities of more elaborate enchilada recipes. The ability to adjust ingredients and spice levels allows for creativity and personalization, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Frequently Asked Questions about Chicken Enchiladas

This simplified recipe addresses common concerns associated with enchilada preparation. The use of pre-made ingredients reduces complexity, answering many frequently asked questions before they even arise. The straightforward instructions and clear explanations aim to resolve any potential challenges associated with the cooking process. By streamlining the recipe, this version lowers the likelihood of common mistakes often encountered with more complicated approaches. The resulting dish is consistently palatable and dependable, minimizing the need for troubleshooting.

1. Can I use different types of tortillas?

   Yes, you can use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas. However, corn tortillas tend to hold their shape better.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

   Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and bake them when ready. Store the assembled dish, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. How can I make it spicier?

   Add more chili powder, or use a spicier type of chili powder. Consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.

4. What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?

   While cream of chicken soup simplifies the recipe considerably, you can substitute with a homemade chicken sauce or a combination of chicken broth and cream for a similar result, although more preparation will be required.

5. Can I freeze these enchiladas?

   Yes, you can freeze unbaked enchiladas. Assemble them in the baking dish, cover tightly with aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding about 15-20 minutes to the baking time.

The appeal of this chicken enchilada recipe lies in its streamlined approach and consistent results. The time savings provided by using readily available ingredients makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights, and its forgiving nature allows for both beginners and experienced cooks to achieve success. The focus on simplicity doesn’t compromise flavor, instead creating a reliable and delicious meal without the complexities of more traditional recipes.

In conclusion, this recipe offers a satisfying and convenient way to enjoy a classic dish. The use of cream of chicken soup significantly streamlines the process, reducing prep time and effort without sacrificing taste. The resulting dish is a comforting and flavorful option suitable for various occasions and skill levels. The provided tips and frequently asked questions further ensure a positive culinary experience.