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Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas

Here’s a detailed recipe for Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas:

Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas

Ingredients:

  • 5 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 (16 oz) jar prepared salsa
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
  • 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
  • 4 green onions, thinly sliced, divided
  • 8 (8-inch) flour tortillas

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325ºF (165ºC). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
    • In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.
    • Stir in 1/2 cup of the salsa, 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded pepper jack cheese, chili powder, and cumin until well combined.
  3. Prepare the Chicken Filling:
    • Add the shredded chicken, thawed corn kernels, and half of the sliced green onions to the cream cheese mixture. Stir well to combine everything evenly.
  4. Assemble the Enchiladas:
    • Spread 1/2 cup of salsa evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
    • Place about 1/2 cup of the chicken mixture down the center of each tortilla. Roll up the tortilla and place it seam side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling, arranging them snugly in the dish.
  5. Bake the Enchiladas:
    • Pour the remaining salsa over the top of the enchiladas, spreading it evenly.
    • Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and pepper jack cheese over the top.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the enchiladas are heated through.
  6. Serve:
    • Remove from the oven and sprinkle with the remaining sliced green onions.
    • Serve the enchiladas warm, garnished with additional sour cream, salsa, avocado slices, or any other desired toppings.

Tips for Making Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas:

  • Tortilla Softening: To make rolling easier, you can warm the tortillas slightly in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel for about 20-30 seconds.
  • Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of chili powder and pepper jack cheese to your desired level of spiciness.
  • Add Beans: For extra texture and protein, you can add a can of drained and rinsed black beans to the filling mixture.
  • Make Ahead: You can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from chilled.
  • Freezing Instructions: These enchiladas freeze well. Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Enjoy your Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas with their creamy, cheesy goodness and flavorful filling!

Here are some tips to make your Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas even more delightful:

  1. Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality salsa, cheeses, and fresh chicken for the best flavor.
  2. Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the chili powder and cumin; these spices add depth and warmth to the dish.
  3. Add Fresh Herbs: Consider adding chopped cilantro or fresh parsley to the filling for a burst of freshness.
  4. Customize the Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheese combinations like Monterey Jack, Mexican blend, or even a bit of cream cheese for added creaminess.
  5. Roast Your Own Salsa: If time permits, roast fresh tomatoes, onions, and peppers to make your own salsa for a fresher taste.
  6. Enhance the Chicken: Season the chicken with additional spices or marinate it in lime juice and garlic before shredding for extra flavor.
  7. Add Heat: For spicy enthusiasts, incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the filling mixture.
  8. Balance Creaminess: Adjust the amount of sour cream and cream cheese to achieve your preferred level of creaminess.
  9. Saute the Corn: Quickly sauté the thawed corn kernels in a bit of butter or olive oil with a pinch of salt and pepper before adding to the filling for caramelized flavor.
  10. Warm Tortillas Properly: Warm the tortillas before filling to make them more pliable and easier to roll without tearing.
  11. Layer in Flavors: Spread a thin layer of salsa on the bottom of the baking dish before adding the enchiladas to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
  12. Top with Fresh Avocado: Serve the enchiladas with slices of fresh avocado or a side of guacamole for added creaminess and freshness.
  13. Drizzle with Lime Juice: Before serving, squeeze fresh lime juice over the enchiladas for a bright citrusy flavor.
  14. Garnish Creatively: Sprinkle chopped green onions, cilantro, or diced tomatoes over the top of the enchiladas just before serving for a colorful presentation.
  15. Serve with Mexican Rice: Pair the enchiladas with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans for a complete meal.
  16. Make it Spicy with Chipotle: Add a chopped chipotle pepper in adobo sauce to the filling mixture for a smoky, spicy kick.
  17. Add a Layer of Refried Beans: Spread a thin layer of refried beans on each tortilla before adding the chicken mixture for extra flavor and texture.
  18. Mix in Diced Green Chiles: Stir in a small can of diced green chiles for a mild, tangy flavor throughout the filling.
  19. Experiment with Tortilla Varieties: Try using whole wheat or corn tortillas for a different texture and flavor profile.
  20. Let the Flavors Meld: After baking, let the enchiladas rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

These tips should help you elevate your Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas to a new level of deliciousness! Enjoy making and serving this flavorful dish.

Here are some tips to make your Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas even more delightful:

  1. Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality salsa, cheeses, and fresh chicken for the best flavor.
  2. Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the chili powder and cumin; these spices add depth and warmth to the dish.
  3. Add Fresh Herbs: Consider adding chopped cilantro or fresh parsley to the filling for a burst of freshness.
  4. Customize the Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheese combinations like Monterey Jack, Mexican blend, or even a bit of cream cheese for added creaminess.
  5. Roast Your Own Salsa: If time permits, roast fresh tomatoes, onions, and peppers to make your own salsa for a fresher taste.
  6. Enhance the Chicken: Season the chicken with additional spices or marinate it in lime juice and garlic before shredding for extra flavor.
  7. Add Heat: For spicy enthusiasts, incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the filling mixture.
  8. Balance Creaminess: Adjust the amount of sour cream and cream cheese to achieve your preferred level of creaminess.
  9. Saute the Corn: Quickly sauté the thawed corn kernels in a bit of butter or olive oil with a pinch of salt and pepper before adding to the filling for caramelized flavor.
  10. Warm Tortillas Properly: Warm the tortillas before filling to make them more pliable and easier to roll without tearing.
  11. Layer in Flavors: Spread a thin layer of salsa on the bottom of the baking dish before adding the enchiladas to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
  12. Top with Fresh Avocado: Serve the enchiladas with slices of fresh avocado or a side of guacamole for added creaminess and freshness.
  13. Drizzle with Lime Juice: Before serving, squeeze fresh lime juice over the enchiladas for a bright citrusy flavor.
  14. Garnish Creatively: Sprinkle chopped green onions, cilantro, or diced tomatoes over the top of the enchiladas just before serving for a colorful presentation.
  15. Serve with Mexican Rice: Pair the enchiladas with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans for a complete meal.
  16. Make it Spicy with Chipotle: Add a chopped chipotle pepper in adobo sauce to the filling mixture for a smoky, spicy kick.
  17. Add a Layer of Refried Beans: Spread a thin layer of refried beans on each tortilla before adding the chicken mixture for extra flavor and texture.
  18. Mix in Diced Green Chiles: Stir in a small can of diced green chiles for a mild, tangy flavor throughout the filling.
  19. Experiment with Tortilla Varieties: Try using whole wheat or corn tortillas for a different texture and flavor profile.
  20. Let the Flavors Meld: After baking, let the enchiladas rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

These tips should help you elevate your Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas to a new level of deliciousness! Enjoy making and serving this flavorful dish.

Here are 40 popular questions and answers related to Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas:

  1. What are Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas?
    • Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas are a delicious Tex-Mex dish made with shredded chicken, cream cheese, salsa, and a blend of cheeses, rolled in tortillas and baked until bubbly.
  2. How do you make Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas?
    • To make Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas, you mix shredded chicken with a cream cheese mixture, roll it in tortillas, place them in a baking dish with salsa, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly.
  3. Can I use rotisserie chicken for Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas?
    • Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works well and adds flavor to Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas.
  4. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
    • Yes, you can use corn tortillas if you prefer. Warm them slightly before rolling to prevent them from breaking.
  5. How do I prevent the tortillas from getting soggy?
    • Spread a thin layer of salsa on the bottom of the baking dish before placing the enchiladas in it to help prevent sogginess.
  6. Can Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas be made ahead of time?
    • Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from chilled.
  7. How long do Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas last in the fridge?
    • Leftover Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
  8. Can Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas be frozen?
    • Yes, you can freeze Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
  9. How do you reheat Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas?
    • Reheat Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions until hot.
  10. What can I serve with Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas?
    • Serve with rice, beans, guacamole, sour cream, salsa, or a side salad for a complete meal.
  11. How do you shred chicken for Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas?
    • Cook chicken breasts or thighs and shred them using two forks or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment.
  12. Can I make Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas spicy?
    • Yes, add diced jalapeños, green chiles, or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture for added heat.
  13. How can I make Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas vegetarian?
    • Substitute the chicken with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini, or use tofu as a protein alternative.
  14. What type of salsa should I use?
    • Any prepared salsa you enjoy will work well, whether it’s mild, medium, or spicy.
  15. Can I add black beans to Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas?
    • Yes, drained and rinsed black beans can be added to the chicken mixture for extra protein and texture.
  16. How can I make Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas healthier?
    • Use low-fat cream cheese, reduced-fat cheese, and whole wheat tortillas for a healthier version.
  17. Can I use different cheeses in Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas?
    • Yes, experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, Mexican blend, or Cotija cheese for different flavors.
  18. How can I make Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas creamy?
    • Increase the amount of sour cream or cream cheese in the filling mixture for added creaminess.
  19. What do I do if my tortillas crack when rolling?
    • Warm the tortillas slightly in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel to make them more pliable.
  20. Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
    • Yes, shredded leftover turkey can be used as a substitute for chicken.
  21. Can I make Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas in a slow cooker?
    • Yes, assemble the enchiladas in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until heated through.
  22. How do I prevent the cheese from burning on top?
    • Cover the baking dish with foil during the first part of baking, then uncover for the last few minutes to melt the cheese.
  23. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
    • Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream in the cream cheese mixture.
  24. Can I use different seasonings in Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas?
    • Yes, customize the seasonings to your taste by adding garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika.
  25. Can I make Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas with red enchilada sauce?
    • Yes, you can substitute red enchilada sauce for the salsa for a different flavor profile.
  26. What size tortillas should I use for Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas?
    • Use 8-inch flour tortillas for this recipe, which are standard for enchiladas.
  27. How do I know when Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas are done baking?
    • The enchiladas are done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are lightly golden brown.
  28. Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas?
    • Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works well and saves time in preparation.
  29. How do I make Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas gluten-free?
    • Use gluten-free flour tortillas or corn tortillas, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
  30. Can I make Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas without cream cheese?
    • Cream cheese adds creaminess and flavor to the dish, but you can omit it if desired or use a dairy-free alternative.
  31. Can I make Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas with leftover shredded pork?
    • Yes, leftover shredded pork can be used as a substitute for chicken in this recipe.
  32. Can I add spinach to Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas?
    • Yes, sautéed spinach can be added to the chicken mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
  33. How do I prevent the tortillas from sticking to the baking dish?
    • Spray the baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or lightly grease it with oil before assembling the enchiladas.
  34. Can I use different vegetables in Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas?
    • Yes, diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes can be added to the filling for extra flavor and texture.
  35. How do I make Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas with green sauce?
    • Substitute green enchilada sauce or salsa verde for the red salsa for a different flavor profile.
  36. How do I make Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas with no dairy?
    • Use dairy-free alternatives for cream cheese, sour cream, and cheese in the recipe.
  37. Can I make Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas with ground chicken?
    • Yes, cooked ground chicken can be used instead of shredded chicken in this recipe.
  38. Can I make Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas with flour tortillas?
    • Yes, flour tortillas are typically used for this recipe. Corn tortillas can also be used if preferred.
  39. Can I add olives to Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas?
    • Yes, sliced black olives can be added to the enchiladas for extra flavor.
  40. Can I use homemade salsa in Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas?
    • Yes, homemade salsa can be used if preferred. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.

These questions cover a variety of aspects of making Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas, offering guidance on ingredients, substitutions, preparation, and serving suggestions.