Tired of seeing dry, uninspired leftover chicken sitting in your fridge? It is time to transform it into a vibrant, mouthwatering meal your whole family will love. This guide will show you how to unlock the incredible versatility of cooked chicken with an easy-to-follow, crowd-pleasing Creamy Chicken Enchilada recipe. Say goodbye to food waste and hello to flavor-packed dishes like these fantastic leftover chicken recipes!
Why You’ll Love These Leftover Chicken Enchiladas
These creamy chicken enchiladas are truly a game-changer for your weeknight dinner rotation. They offer a perfect solution for busy parents and beginners looking for quick and easy leftover chicken recipes.
- Quick and easy weeknight dinner solution. You can have a delicious meal on the table in under an hour, making weeknights stress-free.
- Rich, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy flavor. Each bite bursts with savory chicken and a blend of gooey cheeses.
- Perfect for repurposing any cooked chicken. Whether it’s rotisserie chicken, baked chicken, or grilled chicken, it all works wonderfully here.
- Highly customizable to your taste preferences. Adjust the spices, add your favorite veggies, or change the cheese to make it uniquely yours.
- A comforting, family-friendly meal. This dish is a guaranteed hit that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table.
Ingredients
This recipe transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal. You will be amazed at how easily these components come together to create one of your favorite leftover chicken recipes.
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie, baked, grilled)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese, divided
- 10-12 corn or flour tortillas (6-inch)
- 1 (10-ounce) can red or green enchilada sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1/2 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional garnishes: Sour cream, fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, diced green onions
Notes & Substitutions
You have many options to tailor this creamy enchilada dish to your pantry and preferences. These simple adjustments ensure you can always whip up delicious leftover chicken recipes.
- Chicken: Any pre-cooked chicken works. Use breast for leaner results or thighs for more flavor.
- Cheese: Feel free to experiment with pepper jack for a kick, or a Mexican cheese blend for extra complexity.
- Sauce: For convenience, use a quality store-bought enchilada sauce. If you have time, homemade sauce elevates the flavor even more.
- Spice: Adjust the amounts of chili powder and cumin to your desired level of heat. A pinch of cayenne pepper also adds a nice kick.
- Creaminess: For an even richer filling, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt along with the cream cheese.
Equipment
Having the right tools makes assembling these enchiladas a breeze. You likely already own most of these kitchen essentials.
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet or saucepan (for warming tortillas)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
- Spatula or mixing spoon
How to Make Leftover Chicken Enchiladas
Turning your cooked chicken into these delightful enchiladas is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these steps to create one of the best leftover chicken recipes you will ever make.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling
In your large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken with the softened cream cheese. Add 1 cup of the shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese to the mixture. Next, stir in the finely diced onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix all these ingredients thoroughly until everything is well combined and the chicken is evenly coated with the creamy, seasoned mixture. This forms the heart of your delicious enchiladas.
Step 2: Warm the Tortillas
Warming your tortillas is a crucial step to prevent tearing during assembly and to make them more pliable. You can do this in a few ways. Briefly warm them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds per stack, wrapped in a damp paper towel. Alternatively, quickly dip each tortilla in a shallow pan of warm enchilada sauce or lightly heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 10-15 seconds per side. This ensures they are flexible and easy to roll.
Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Begin by spreading a thin, even layer of your favorite enchilada sauce on the bottom of your 9×13 inch baking dish. This prevents the tortillas from sticking and adds flavor. Take one warmed tortilla and spoon about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of the prepared chicken filling down the center. Roll the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling, arranging them snugly in a single layer in the dish.
Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese
Once all the enchiladas are rolled and placed in the baking dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas. Make sure to cover them completely to keep them moist and flavorful during baking. Next, generously sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese over the top of the sauce-covered enchiladas. For an extra touch of moisture and flavor, you can optionally add a splash of chicken broth around the edges of the dish before baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the enchiladas are bubbly around the edges and the cheese on top is melted, golden brown, and slightly caramelized. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning. Once baked, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Allow the enchiladas to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the ingredients set, making them easier to cut and serve neatly.
Pro Tips for Perfect Leftover Chicken Recipes
Elevate your cooking with these clever tips designed to make your leftover chicken recipes even better. These small adjustments can make a big difference in flavor and texture.
- Moist Chicken: If your cooked chicken seems a bit dry, rehydrate it slightly by tossing it with a tablespoon of chicken broth or a dash of salsa before mixing with other ingredients.
- Flavor Boost: Always season your shredded chicken generously, even before combining it with other components. This layers the flavor beautifully throughout the dish.
- Crispy Edges: For enchiladas with a little extra texture, lightly pan-fry each tortilla in a bit of oil for about 10 seconds per side before filling and rolling.
- Batch Cooking: This recipe is fantastic for making ahead! Double the batch for easy meal prep during the week or to share with friends.
- Freezing: Unbaked enchiladas freeze beautifully. Assemble them in a foil pan, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking as directed.
Serving Suggestions, Storage, and Variations
These creamy enchiladas are versatile and delicious, making them a cornerstone of great leftover chicken recipes. Here are some ideas to serve, store, and vary your dish.
For a complete and satisfying meal, serve your enchiladas with traditional Mexican sides like fluffy Spanish rice, hearty black beans, or a crisp, fresh green salad. Garnish generously with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and slices of creamy avocado. You can also add some diced green onions or a squeeze of lime juice for brightness.
Store any cooled leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave or place the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, usually about 15-20 minutes.
Variations for Any Leftover Chicken
Beyond enchiladas, cooked chicken is incredibly adaptable for many quick meals.
- Chicken Salad Sandwiches: Mix with mayo, celery, and herbs for a classic, quick lunch option.
- Hearty Soups & Stews: Add shredded chicken to your favorite noodle soup, chili, or a comforting chicken and vegetable stew.
- Quick Quesadillas or Tacos: Combine shredded chicken with cheese and cook in a tortilla, or pile into warm tortillas with your favorite toppings.
- Loaded Baked Potatoes: Top a fluffy baked potato with chicken, cheese, salsa, and a dollop of sour cream for a hearty meal.
- Stir-Fries: Toss cooked chicken into a vibrant vegetable stir-fry with your favorite Asian-inspired sauce for a speedy dinner.
Nutrition Information
Our creamy chicken enchiladas are a fantastic way to utilize leftover chicken recipes in a balanced meal. The lean protein from the chicken supports muscle growth and provides lasting energy. For added fiber and essential vitamins, incorporate more vegetables into the filling, such as bell peppers or corn. You can control the fat content by choosing lower-fat cheese and cream cheese varieties. Opt for whole wheat tortillas to boost your fiber intake, which aids digestion. Remember, portion size significantly impacts the overall calorie count of your meal.
| Nutrient | Amount (Estimated per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450-550 |
| Protein | 30-35g |
| Fat | 25-30g |
| Carbs | 30-35g |
| Fiber | 3-5g |
| Sodium | 800-950mg |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leftover Chicken
Here are some common questions about using cooked chicken, ensuring you get the most out of your leftover chicken recipes.
- Q1: How long is cooked chicken good for in the fridge?
- Answer: According to the USDA, cooked chicken is safe to eat for three to four days when properly refrigerated. Always keep it in an airtight container.
- Q2: Can I freeze cooked chicken for later use?
- Answer: Yes, you absolutely can. Freeze cooked chicken in airtight containers or freezer bags for 2-3 months for best quality.
- Q3: What are some quick dinner ideas with leftover chicken?
- Answer: Besides enchiladas, consider pasta dishes, quick salads, pizzas, wraps, or comforting casseroles for speedy meals.
- Q4: How do I prevent leftover chicken from drying out when reheating?
- Answer: Reheat gently, often covered, and add a splash of broth or sauce to keep the chicken moist and tender.
- Q5: What are the best ways to shred cooked chicken?
- Answer: Use two forks to pull it apart, a stand mixer with a paddle attachment for larger batches, or simply your hands once it is cool enough.
Conclusion
Leftover chicken offers endless culinary possibilities, transforming into countless delicious meals with a little creativity. This creamy enchilada recipe is just one fantastic example, showcasing how easily you can turn simple ingredients into a memorable, comforting dish. By embracing these leftover chicken recipes, you not only reduce food waste but also discover new family favorites. Enjoy the process of transforming everyday ingredients into the highlight of your week!
Delicious Leftover Chicken Recipes: Creamy Enchiladas Edition
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, and your choice of spices.
- Stuff each tortilla with the chicken mixture and arrange them snugly in a 13x9-inch baking dish.
- Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the tortillas and bake until the dish is bubbly and thoroughly heated.