Brunilda Schiavone Green chicken enchiladas recipes offer a vibrant and flavorful alternative to traditional Mexican cuisine. This dish combines the richness of chicken with a zesty green sauce, all enveloped in warm tortillas. The preparation involves several steps, from cooking the chicken and making the sauce to assembling and baking the enchiladas. The result is a satisfying and customizable meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Detailed instructions and helpful tips ensure success even for novice cooks.
The appeal of these recipes lies in their adaptability. The green sauce can be adjusted to suit individual spice preferences, ranging from mild to fiery. Furthermore, the filling can be modified to include other ingredients, such as beans, vegetables, or cheese, offering endless possibilities for culinary exploration. Understanding the basic techniques involved allows for the creation of diverse and delicious variations. The use of readily available ingredients makes this dish accessible to a wide range of home cooks.
Mastering green chicken enchiladas recipes allows one to create a complex and flavorful meal with relative ease. The process enhances cooking skills, and the outcome provides a satisfying culinary achievement. This dishs versatility makes it a cornerstone of Mexican-inspired home cooking.
Ingredients for Green Chicken Enchiladas
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 (4 ounce) can chopped green chilies
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup enchilada sauce (green or red)
Instructions for Green Chicken Enchiladas
- Cook chicken: Boil or bake chicken breasts until cooked through. Shred chicken.
- Prepare sauce: Saut onion and garlic in olive oil until softened. Add tomatoes, green chilies, chicken broth, cilantro, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes.
- Assemble enchiladas: Preheat oven to 375F (190C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Dip each tortilla in the sauce, fill with shredded chicken and cheese, and roll up. Place seam-down in the baking dish.
- Bake: Pour remaining sauce over enchiladas and sprinkle with extra cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra cilantro, if desired.
Estimated Time and Yield for Green Chicken Enchiladas
The preparation of green chicken enchiladas requires careful attention to detail to achieve optimal flavor and texture. The cooking time, including preparation and baking, is approximately 1 hour. This recipe yields 6-8 servings, making it suitable for a family dinner or a small gathering. The following table summarizes the time and yield information:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 30 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour |
| Yields | 6-8 servings |
Nutritional Information for Green Chicken Enchiladas
Green chicken enchiladas provide a good source of protein from the chicken, as well as carbohydrates from the tortillas. The vegetables in the sauce contribute vitamins and minerals, while the cheese adds calcium. However, the overall calorie and fat content depend on the specific ingredients used and portion size. A balanced approach to serving size is recommended to enjoy this dish as part of a healthy diet.
Note: The nutritional information below is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For precise nutritional data, consult a nutrition calculator using your exact ingredients.
| Nutrient | Amount per serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350-400 |
| Protein | 25-30g |
| Fat | 15-20g |
| Carbohydrates | 30-35g |
Tips for Cooking Green Chicken Enchiladas
Achieving perfect green chicken enchiladas involves a blend of technique and attention to detail. Proper preparation of the chicken and sauce is crucial, and the assembly process requires a gentle touch to prevent breakage. Baking time should be adjusted to ensure the cheese is melted and bubbly without overcooking the tortillas. These tips will lead to a consistently delicious outcome.
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Use high-quality ingredients:
The flavor of these enchiladas is directly related to the quality of ingredients used. Opt for fresh, flavorful chicken and high-quality cheeses for a richer taste.
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Don’t overcook the chicken:
Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Ensure the chicken is cooked through but still moist before shredding.
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Adjust the spice level:
The amount of green chilies used can be adjusted to create a mild, medium, or spicy enchilada. Start with less and add more to taste.
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Warm the tortillas:
Warming the tortillas slightly before filling helps prevent them from breaking and makes them more pliable.
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Don’t overfill the enchiladas:
Overfilling will make the enchiladas difficult to roll and may cause them to burst during baking.
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Bake until bubbly:
The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the sauce should be heated through. Adjust baking time as needed based on your oven.
The versatility of green chicken enchiladas allows for creative adjustments. Experiment with different cheeses, add beans or other vegetables to the filling, or try using different types of tortillas. These modifications will lead to unique flavor combinations and culinary exploration.
The success of any dish, including green chicken enchiladas, rests on the quality of ingredients and careful execution of steps. By paying attention to detail and utilizing the provided tips, a delicious and memorable meal can be achieved.
Frequently Asked Questions about Green Chicken Enchiladas
This section addresses some common questions regarding the preparation and enjoyment of this flavorful dish, providing helpful guidance for both novice and experienced cooks.
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Can I use leftover cooked chicken?
Absolutely! Using leftover cooked chicken is a great way to save time. Make sure it’s properly reheated before shredding and adding it to the enchiladas.
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Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator, covered, until ready to bake. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
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What kind of cheese is best?
Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a Mexican blend are all great options. Choose a cheese that melts well.
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Can I freeze these?
Yes, you can freeze assembled (unbaked) enchiladas. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
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What if my tortillas break?
Don’t worry! If a tortilla breaks, simply patch it with another piece of tortilla or use it as it is; the sauce will help hold it together during baking.
Understanding the nuances of this recipe, from ingredient selection to cooking technique, empowers home cooks to create a truly exceptional meal. The simple steps involved, coupled with the delicious results, make green chicken enchiladas a worthwhile culinary pursuit.
In conclusion, mastering the art of making green chicken enchiladas opens up a world of flavor and culinary possibilities. By following these instructions and tips, anyone can confidently create this satisfying and delicious dish.