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With all the plates we juggle in this life, it’s never a bad time for a party that can cheer things up and spice things up a bit! Good food is such a fun way to travel the world when you feel like having a new experience, but not all of us have the time or extra resources to fly to the sunny sands of Mexico. So… we thought why not bring these exotic flavors to your home for a festive stay? Trying new things in the kitchen can really be a fun adventure, but we think it’s also comforting to know that a recipe contains some proven ingredients that you can count on to deliver a masterstroke every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cheese – who doesn’t love it and how delicious it really gets when it’s melted and sticky? You’ll find delicious golden Mexican cheese on and in these enchiladas, as well as rich cream cheese mixed with hearty chicken seasoned with warm spices and fresh lime juice. It doesn’t take much chicken either – just three grated cups! We also love the way the Latin flavors in this recipe speak to your tongue without being too spicy. The fresh feeling of fresh lime juice really balances the flavors of cumin and chili powder, and the canned green peppers give a sweet but tasty punch that can still stand out in a crowd.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Oven
Ingredients
- 8-10 flour tortillas
- 1 pkg. cream cheese, room temperature, divided [1/2 and 1/2]
- 1-2 cans of green peppers
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups Mexican cheese mixture, grated, divided [1 cup; 1 cup]
- 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon of lime juice
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, garnish, optional
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350º F and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- In a bowl, mix 1/2 cream cheese, chicken, 1 cup cheese, lime juice, cumin and chili powder, and season with salt and pepper, if desired.
- Take 1 tortilla and fill with 2-3 tablespoons of chicken mixture, then place seam side down in baking dish. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
- In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until golden brown.
- Season with salt and pepper and gradually whisk in chicken broth and green chilies. Stir in the remaining half of the cream cheese and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
- Remove from heat and pour green pepper sauce over enchiladas.
- Garnish with remaining cheese.
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 22-25 minutes, or until the cheese and filling are melted and bubbling.
- Optional: broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the enchiladas are lightly browned.
- Remove from oven and let stand and set for 10-12 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, optional.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Don’t overfill the tortillas to prevent them from breaking.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add more chili powder or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
Additional Tips or Variations
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with black beans or roasted vegetables.
- Use corn tortillas instead of flour for a different texture and flavor.
- Add sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Calories: Approximately 350 | Protein: 20g | Fat: 22g | Carbs: 18g | Fiber: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I prepare this dish in advance? Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas a day ahead and keep them in the fridge before baking.
How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Can I freeze the enchiladas? Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Conclusion
This Sour Cream Chicken Enchilada Casserole is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico right to your table. It’s easy to prepare, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! Share your experiences and any creative twists you add to this classic recipe.
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