Cheesy Chicken & Chile Enchiladas with Kraft Natural Cheese: A Flavorful Mexican Classic 🌶️🧀🍗
1. Introduction
If you’re craving a delicious and hearty Mexican dish, look no further than Cheesy Chicken & Chile Enchiladas. This savory recipe combines tender shredded chicken, fiery chiles, and rich Kraft Natural Cheese to create a comforting meal perfect for weeknights or special gatherings. With layers of flavor and a creamy cheese sauce, these enchiladas are sure to become a family favorite. Discover how to make this popular dish with our easy-to-follow recipe and tips to enhance your cooking experience.
2. Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken & Chile Enchiladas
- 4 cups cooked and shredded chicken (preferably rotisserie or grilled)
- 8-10 warm corn or flour tortillas
- 2 cups Kraft Natural Cheese, shredded (or your preferred cheese)
- 3 roasted red chiles, chopped (or canned chiles for convenience)
- 1 cup enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
3. Step-by-step directions for Cheesy Chicken & Chile Enchiladas
Preparation of Ingredients
Before assembling, prepare your ingredients. Roast the chiles if using fresh ones for smoky flavor, or use canned chiles for simplicity. Cook and shred the chicken if not using pre-cooked. Gather all ingredients to streamline the cooking process.
4. Prepare the Filling and Sauce
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until translucent. Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add shredded chicken and chopped chiles, cook for 2-3 minutes. Pour in the enchilada sauce and simmer for 5 minutes to combine flavors. For an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle some Kraft Natural Cheese into the sauce before removing from heat.
5. Assemble the Enchiladas
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish. Warm tortillas slightly to make rolling easier. Spoon a portion of the chicken and chile mixture onto each tortilla, then roll tightly and place seam-side down in the baking dish. Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the assembled enchiladas and sprinkle generously with Kraft Natural Cheese for that irresistible cheesy topping.
6. Baking
Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. For a crispier top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes. Serve hot, topped with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.
7. Storage tips and reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the enchiladas in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For a fresher taste and crispy edges, reheat in an Ninja Air Fryer Pro or oven. Avoid freezing if you prefer a crispy texture since cheese may become rubbery upon thawing.
8. Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Chicken & Chile Enchiladas
These enchiladas are versatile. Serve them alongside Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh side salad. For added zest, drizzle with lime juice or hot sauce. Pair with a cold beverage, such as a refreshing Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker for perfect drinks that complement the smoky, cheesy flavors. Or explore our suggested pairing with spicy salsas and tangy guacamole for a complete Mexican feast.
9. Conclusion
Enjoy the irresistible taste of Cheesy Chicken & Chile Enchiladas by combining tender chicken, flavorful chiles, and melted Kraft Natural Cheese. Whether you’re making it for family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t forget to experiment with different cheeses or extra toppings for personalized perfection. Dive into the rich, cheesy goodness today and elevate your Mexican cooking skills!
FAQs about Cheesy Chicken & Chile Enchiladas
Q: Can I make Cheesy Chicken & Chile Enchiladas vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. Use a flavorful vegetarian enchilada sauce to maintain the rich taste.
Q: What cheese works best for these enchiladas?
Kraft Natural Cheese provides a smooth melt and authentic flavor, but you can also experiment with Monterey Jack, Mexican blend, or queso fresco for varied textures and flavors.
Q: How can I make these enchiladas spicier?
Add extra chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or more roasted chiles to intensify the heat level. Adjust to your spice preference for a fiery delight.
Start your culinary adventure with top-quality kitchen tools like the CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set or the KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer to make prepping your ingredients easier and more efficient. For meal inspiration, explore our other delicious recipes like Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Tacos or Caramel Apple Cider Float for sweet treat ideas to pair with your savory enchiladas.
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Cheesy Chicken & Chile Enchiladas with Kraft Natural Cheese
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
Cheesy Chicken & Chile Enchiladas with Kraft Natural Cheese is a delicious and hearty Mexican classic featuring tender shredded chicken, fiery chiles, and melted Kraft Natural Cheese layered in warm tortillas. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, this flavorful dish combines smoky chiles, savory chicken, and creamy cheese sauce to create a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked and shredded chicken (preferably rotisserie or grilled)
- 8–10 warm corn or flour tortillas
- 2 cups Kraft Natural Cheese, shredded (or your preferred cheese)
- 3 roasted red chiles, chopped (or canned chiles for convenience)
- 1 cup enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
- Warm tortillas slightly to make rolling easier.
- Spoon a portion of the chicken and chile mixture onto each tortilla, then roll tightly and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the assembled enchiladas.
- Sprinkle generously with Kraft Natural Cheese across the top.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Optional: Broil for an additional 2-3 minutes for a crispier top.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, or sour cream as desired.
Notes
- For extra spice, add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce.
- Use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Make ahead and refrigerate before baking; reheat thoroughly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican