Name: Easy Healthy Chicken Enchiladas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded); 1 tablespoon organic virgin olive oil; 1 medium onion (chopped); 3 garlic cloves (minced); 1/2 can black or kidney beans (drained & rinsed); 1/2 cup corn (drained & rinsed); 1 15oz can natural tomato sauce (no added salt); 1 cup chicken stock (low-sodium); 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 cup low-fat sour cream; 1/2 cup low-fat Mexican cheese blend or non-fat mozzarella; 8 whole grain corn tortillas

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The aroma of sizzling onions and garlic fills the kitchen, whisking you away to a cozy, sunlit room where the air is thick with warmth and the promise of family gatherings. Picture a platter of Easy Healthy Chicken Enchiladas, with their vibrant colors peeking through a blanket of warm cheese, calling everyone to the table. Each bite unveils tender shredded chicken mingling with black beans and sweet corn, all tucked into freshly warmed tortillas. It’s comfort food, made healthier, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Easy Healthy Chicken Enchiladas
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Easy Healthy Chicken Enchiladas

Growing up, chicken enchiladas were a staple in our household. I remember my mom whipping them up on chilly evenings, their spicy aroma wrapping us like a hug. Those evenings filled with laughter, the clinking of forks against plates, and the comfort of shared meals have inspired this recipe. As we lean into the cooler seasons and the holidays approach, there’s no better time to gather with loved ones and enjoy something delicious. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s make some exciting Easy Healthy Chicken Enchiladas that will make your kitchen the heart of your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Prep and cook these enchiladas in just about 30–35 minutes!
Irresistible Flavor: A blend of smoky, savory, and slightly sweet notes create an unforgettable taste experience.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The colorful fillings and melted cheese are sure to wow your guests.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, potlucks, or even Sunday brunch.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily modify for gluten-free lovers or those watching their dairy intake.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded): You can use rotisserie chicken for an extra flavor and time saver. Feel free to substitute with turkey or a plant-based protein like lentils for a vegetarian option.
1 tablespoon organic virgin olive oil: This adds healthy fats and flavor. For a different twist, avocado oil or coconut oil can also be used.
1 medium onion (chopped): Onions bring sweetness and depth. You can swap with shallots or green onions if preferred.
3 garlic cloves (minced): Fresh garlic enhances the overall flavor profile. Garlic powder can be a substitute if fresh isn’t available.
1/2 can black or kidney beans (drained & rinsed): These provide protein and fiber. Chickpeas could work well too if you want something different.
1/2 cup corn (drained & rinsed): Sweet corn adds brightness; feel free to use frozen corn for convenience.
1 15oz can natural tomato sauce (no added salt): Look for low-sodium versions for overall health. Homemade sauce adds a personal touch.
1 cup chicken stock (low-sodium): This keeps the dish flavorful without too much sodium. Vegetable stock can work as a vegetarian alternative.
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: This herb contributes an earthy flavor. Basil or oregano can also be lovely choices.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Smoky and slightly sweet, it brings warmth. Regular paprika provides a milder flavor if needed.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A simple seasoning to balance the dish. Adjust to taste.
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Earthy notes make it classic; you can also try Italian seasoning for a twist.
1/2 teaspoon chili powder: A little spice to awaken the taste buds—feel free to dial it back if you prefer less heat or use a smoked version for an extra kick.
1/2 cup low-fat sour cream: This creamy addition makes the fillings rich; yogurt is a great substitute if you’re looking for a lighter option.
1/2 cup low-fat Mexican cheese blend or non-fat mozzarella: Low-fat cheese offers creaminess without too many calories. Consider dairy-free cheese alternatives for a non-dairy version.
8 whole grain corn tortillas: These rising stars hold your delicious filling; whole wheat or spinach tortillas will add extra nutrition.

How to Make Easy Healthy Chicken Enchiladas

Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a baking dish with a few drops of olive oil to prevent sticking and promote browning. This helps create a delightful golden crust on top when you bake your enchiladas!

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. It’s the moment you’ll smell that inviting aroma filling your kitchen. Add the minced garlic and stir for an additional minute, just until it’s golden and aromatic.

Add the Saucy Ingredients: Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken stock. Give everything a good stir to combine. As the mixture warms, you’ll notice the vibrant colors blending beautifully. Then, sprinkle in the beans, corn, shredded chicken, thyme, chili powder, oregano, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Let this simmer for about 5–10 minutes until it thickens and everything is well mixed.

Strain for Perfection: Carefully strain the sauce to separate chunky bits from the sauce. By doing this, you will have a smooth base that allows the flavors to shine while keeping it saucy but not too heavy. Set the chunky ingredients aside; they’ll be going back into the tortillas.

Warm the Tortillas: Heat the corn tortillas in your microwave for 30 seconds or on a hot skillet for about a minute each side until they’re warm and flexible. This step is crucial; it prevents the tortillas from cracking when you roll them! Once they’ve heated up, you’re ready to assemble.

Assemble and Roll: Spread a dollop of sour cream evenly over each warm tortilla. Next, spoon in your filling mixture—around a large spoonful should do well. Top it with a sprinkle of cheese. Carefully roll the tortilla, making sure the filling stays snugly inside, and place the seam side down in the greased baking dish.

Pour and Bake: Once all are assembled, pour the remaining sauce over the tortillas, drenching them in that rich, comforting mix. Sprinkle any leftover cheese on top, ensuring every roll is covered in melty goodness. Cover the dish tightly with foil and pop it in the oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly.

Storing & Reheating

To store your delicious enchiladas, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re going to freeze, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Just know that freezing may slightly alter the texture, so a quick sprinkle of extra cheese before baking can refresh that cheesy goodness!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid the common mistake of overcooking the onions; aim for translucent but not browned to maintain sweetness.
Ensure your chicken is finely shredded for even filling distribution—two forks do wonders for this task.
Timing is essential; prep all your ingredients ahead of time for smoother assembly and cooking.
If you want a crispy topping, broil your enchiladas for the last 2–3 minutes of baking—but keep an eye on them!
Flavor enhancement is key! Consider adding jalapeños for a spicy kick or fresh cilantro for freshness.

The heart of these Easy Healthy Chicken Enchiladas is that they bring people together over food that not only nourishes but delights. With the combination of vibrant ingredients and simple preparation, they’re your ticket to a wonderful meal that’s both comforting and wholesome. Feel free to play around with the ingredients and make them your own!

Recipe FAQs

Can I make these enchiladas in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the enchiladas a day ahead. Just store them in the fridge before baking. This makes mealtime a breeze when you’re ready to cook!

What can I substitute for the tortillas?

If you’re looking for alternatives, try using lettuce wraps for a low-carb option or whole wheat tortillas for extra fiber. You can also opt for gluten-free tortillas to cater to dietary needs.

How can I make these vegetarian?

Simply swap the shredded chicken for more beans or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. You can enhance the savory flavor by adding some quinoa or brown rice.

Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?

Yes, canned chicken is a convenient option! Just make sure to drain and rinse it well to reduce sodium content. It saves you time without sacrificing too much flavor!