Brunilda Schiavone A canned chicken enchilada recipe offers a convenient and flavorful meal option. This recipe utilizes readily available canned chicken, reducing preparation time while maintaining a satisfying culinary experience. The combination of savory chicken, rich enchilada sauce, and melty cheese creates a dish appealing to a wide range of palates. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the ingredients, instructions, nutritional information, and helpful tips for achieving optimal results. Understanding the nuances of this recipe empowers home cooks to create a delicious and satisfying meal efficiently.
The versatility of a canned chicken enchilada recipe is notable. It allows for customization based on dietary needs and preferences. Different types of cheese, vegetables, or spices can be incorporated to personalize the flavor profile. The recipe’s adaptability makes it suitable for both weeknight dinners and gatherings. The convenience of using canned chicken significantly reduces the overall preparation time, making it an ideal choice for busy individuals or families. Mastering this recipe opens up a world of culinary possibilities, encouraging experimentation and creativity in the kitchen.
The core concept hinges on the balance of flavors and textures. The creamy, slightly spicy enchilada sauce complements the savory canned chicken, while the melted cheese adds richness and a satisfying mouthfeel. Proper layering of the ingredients ensures even cooking and a visually appealing presentation. Understanding the interplay of these elements is critical to achieving a delicious and well-balanced dish. The ease and speed of preparation, coupled with the delicious result, make this recipe a kitchen staple.
Ingredients for a Canned Chicken Enchilada Recipe
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced green chilies
- 1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (15-ounce) can enchilada sauce
- 2 (10.75-ounce) cans condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 (15 ounce) cans chicken breast, drained
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 12 corn tortillas
Instructions for a Canned Chicken Enchilada Recipe
- Preheat oven to 350F (175C).
- In a large bowl, combine the drained chicken, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, enchilada sauce, diced green chilies, diced tomatoes and green chilies, chili powder, and cumin. Mix well.
- Pour about 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Fill each tortilla with about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture and roll up tightly.
- Place the filled tortillas seam-down in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the enchiladas.
- Sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the enchiladas are heated through.
Estimated Cooking Time and Servings for this Canned Chicken Enchilada Recipe
This canned chicken enchilada recipe requires approximately 30 minutes of preparation time and 25 minutes of baking time. It yields approximately 6 servings. The precise cooking time may vary slightly depending on your oven. The recipe’s simplicity allows for efficient meal preparation, making it a practical choice for busy schedules. The generous serving size ensures ample portions for family or friends. The recipe’s overall efficiency contributes to its popularity.
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|
| 30 minutes | 25 minutes | 6 |
Nutritional Information for this Canned Chicken Enchilada Recipe
This canned chicken enchilada recipe provides a substantial source of protein from the chicken and cheese. The vegetables contribute vitamins and minerals, enhancing the dish’s nutritional value. The recipe, while delicious, should be considered part of a balanced diet. Individual nutritional needs vary; consulting a nutritionist or dietician is recommended for personalized dietary advice. Understanding the nutritional breakdown allows for informed food choices.
| Nutrient | Amount per serving (approximate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350-400 |
| Protein | 20-25g |
| Fat | 15-20g |
| Carbohydrates | 30-35g |
| Sodium | High (due to canned ingredients) |
Tips for Cooking this Canned Chicken Enchilada Recipe
Optimizing the cooking process results in a more flavorful and visually appealing dish. Attention to detail elevates the overall dining experience. By following these tips, home cooks can consistently create a delicious meal. Consistent results are achievable with careful attention to the instructions and suggested modifications.
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Use high-quality canned ingredients:
Selecting reputable brands ensures better flavor and texture. Look for canned chicken with minimal added ingredients. High-quality ingredients significantly impact the final taste of the dish.
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Don’t overfill the tortillas:
Overfilling can make the enchiladas difficult to roll and may cause them to break during baking. Maintaining a consistent filling amount leads to uniform cooking and even presentation. Proper rolling technique is important for visual appeal and structural integrity.
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Gently heat the tortillas:
Slightly warming the tortillas before filling makes them more pliable and less likely to break. This prevents cracking during the rolling process and produces neater enchiladas. Warming tortillas improves handling and prevents crumbling.
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Add extra vegetables:
Incorporate sauted onions, bell peppers, or corn for added flavor and nutritional value. Customizing the recipe with additional vegetables enhances both the taste and nutritional profile. Adding fresh vegetables enhances the overall culinary experience.
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Use a variety of cheeses:
Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack, for a more complex flavor profile. Blending cheeses creates depth and nuance in flavor and texture. The melted cheese is a key component of the enchilada’s appeal.
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Broil for a crispy topping:
For a crispier cheese topping, broil the enchiladas for the last few minutes of baking. Broiling adds a delightful textural contrast to the creamy interior. Monitor closely to avoid burning.
The ease and speed of preparation are significant advantages. The convenience factor makes this recipe particularly appealing for busy individuals or families. This canned chicken enchilada recipe is a versatile and adaptable choice for various occasions. It offers a simple yet satisfying meal option that can be customized to individual preferences.
The overall flexibility of the recipe makes it suitable for both everyday meals and special occasions. The customizable nature of the recipe allows for creative culinary exploration. The recipe’s simplicity, coupled with its delicious results, makes it a popular choice for home cooks of all skill levels.
Frequently Asked Questions about this Canned Chicken Enchilada Recipe
Addressing common questions ensures a successful cooking experience. Clear answers provide confidence and prevent potential problems. Thorough clarification enhances the user’s understanding and confidence in the recipe.
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Can I use different types of canned chicken?
Yes, you can use other types of canned chicken, such as white chicken or chicken breast. However, the flavor may vary slightly depending on the brand and type of chicken used. The type of canned chicken may subtly affect the taste but generally works well. Its essential to drain the chicken well before adding it to the mixture.
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Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This is a great time-saving strategy for busy schedules. Simply bake as directed when ready to serve. Allow for slightly longer baking time if baking from cold.
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What can I substitute for corn tortillas?
Flour tortillas can be used as a substitute for corn tortillas. The texture will be slightly different, but the flavor will remain similar. Flour tortillas offer a softer texture than corn tortillas. Keep in mind that flour tortillas might not roll as tightly.
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Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, you can freeze leftover enchiladas for future use. Allow them to cool completely, wrap well, then freeze in an airtight container. Freezing extends the shelf life and allows for easy meal preparation later. Remember to thaw completely before reheating.
The versatility and convenience make this canned chicken enchilada recipe a popular choice. This simple yet satisfying dish offers a balance of flavor and ease of preparation. The recipe’s adaptability ensures its suitability for a wide range of tastes and cooking styles.
In conclusion, this canned chicken enchilada recipe presents a practical and delicious meal option, ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Its adaptability and ease of preparation make it a valuable addition to any home cook’s repertoire.