Description
These Jalapeño Popper Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas combine tender shredded chicken with creamy cheeses and spicy jalapeños, all wrapped in soft tortillas and baked in a flavorful enchilada sauce. This comforting Mexican-inspired dish delivers a perfect balance of heat and cheesy goodness, making it ideal for a satisfying main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Filling
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2-3 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Assembly
- 8 flour or corn tortillas
- 1 1/2 cups enchilada sauce
- Optional: extra shredded cheese for topping
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the enchiladas from sticking.
- Make the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, finely chopped jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and season with salt and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Warm the tortillas: Slightly warm the flour or corn tortillas to make them pliable and easier to roll without cracking.
- Assemble enchiladas: Spoon a portion of the chicken cheese mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place each seam-side down in the prepared baking dish, arranging them evenly.
- Add sauce and cheese: Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over all the rolled tortillas. If desired, sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle fresh cilantro over the enchiladas before serving. Enjoy with optional sides such as sour cream, guacamole, or salsa.
Notes
- For extra heat, leave some jalapeño seeds in the filling or add a dash of hot sauce.
- You can use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Serve with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for added flavor.
