Cream Cheese Enchiladas are a creamy and flavorful twist on traditional enchiladas. Filled with a rich mixture of cream cheese, shredded chicken, and Mexican cheese, and topped with a smooth and savory sauce, these enchiladas are perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal. They're great for family dinners, gatherings, or whenever you're in the mood for a delicious Mexican-inspired dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
- 8 (6-inch) corn tortillas
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Optional: ½ teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro as garnish
- Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sliced olives, sliced jalapeños, chopped green onions
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cooked chicken, and 1 cup of shredded Mexican cheese.
If desired, add ½ teaspoon of chili powder for a bit of heat.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, and add 1 tablespoon of lime juice. Mix well.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
Whisk in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute until the mixture is lightly browned.
Gradually pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
Add the diced green chiles to the sauce.
Cook and stir until the sauce is thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Warm the corn tortillas in a microwave or on a skillet to make them more pliable.
Spoon a generous amount of the chicken and cream cheese mixture down the center of each tortilla.
Roll up the tortillas and place them seam side down in the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: Bake the Enchiladas
Pour the prepared sauce over the enchiladas, ensuring they are completely covered.
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded Mexican cheese over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Garnish the enchiladas with fresh cilantro.
If desired, add additional toppings like diced tomatoes, sliced olives, sliced jalapeños, and chopped green onions.
Serve hot.
Serving Suggestions:
Enjoy these Cream Cheese Enchiladas with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad. They pair well with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for added flavor.
Tips:
- Shredded Chicken: You can use leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or cook and shred chicken breasts or thighs specifically for this recipe.
- Cheese Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different types of Mexican cheese blends or use a combination of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese.
- Tortilla Options: If you prefer, you can use flour tortillas instead of corn.
Prep Time:
- Preparation Time: Approximately 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 per serving (varies based on the size and specific ingredients used)
- Protein: 20-25g per serving
- Sodium: Varies based on the ingredients used
Conclusion
Cream Cheese Enchiladas offer a delightful and comforting twist on a classic Mexican dish. The combination of creamy filling, savory sauce, and melted cheese creates a delicious meal that's sure to satisfy. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, these enchiladas are an excellent choice for a hearty and flavorful meal.
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