When it comes to super tasty Mexican food, chicken enchiladas are a favorite in my casa.
The Pioneer Woman’s take on this traditional dish never fails (even when I use rotisserie chicken to save a little cooking time).
I always top the enchiladas with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for extra brightness.
One trick I’ve learned is to warm the tortillas over a stovetop burner before assembling This really helps prevent them from breaking.
How to Make Pioneer Woman Chicken Enchiladas
Ingredients
- 12 Corn Tortillas
- 3 Tbsp Canola Oil (divided)
- 1 Large Onion (diced)
- 1 Jalapeño (seeded and finely diced)
- 2 1/2 cups Chicken (cooked, shredded)
- 3 cans Whole Green Chiles (diced, 4 oz each)
- 1 cup Sour Cream
- 2 cups Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Chili Powder
- Salt (to taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F.
This gets your oven ready for baking the enchiladas to perfection!
Step 2:
Heat 2 tablespoons of canola oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Softly fry each tortilla for about 20 seconds per side, then drain them on paper towels.
Step 3:
In another skillet, use the remaining tablespoon of canola oil to sauté the diced onion and jalapeño for about 1 minute.
Your kitchen will smell amazing already!
Step 4:
Sprinkle cumin, chili powder, and salt over the chicken, then mix the seasoned chicken with the sour cream, chiles, and half of the cheese.
This blend forms the delicious filling.
Step 5:
Place a portion of the filling inside each tortilla, roll them up, and arrange in a baking dish.
Sprinkle the top with the remaining cheese.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Spicy Variations
If you want a spicier dish, add more jalapeños or include a dash of hot sauce to the filling!
This adds a little kick to each bite.
Cheese Choices
Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties, such as Monterey Jack or a spicy pepper jack, for varying flavor profiles.
Cheese lovers rejoice with these options!
Rotisserie Shortcut
Consider using a store-bought rotisserie chicken for the filling if you’re short on time.
This effectively reduces the preparation time needed.
Tortilla Tips
Warming the tortillas on a stovetop burner instead of frying them adds a mild char and keeps them soft.
This method also minimizes added oil.
Serving Style
Serve these enchiladas with a side of fresh avocado or a dollop of guacamole for extra flavor.
This complements the dish wonderfully.
What to Serve with Pioneer Woman Chicken Enchiladas
Mexican Rice
You can’t go wrong with Mexican rice as a side dish for your chicken enchiladas.
Its fluffy texture and rich flavors of tomatoes, garlic, and spices create a perfect balance.
Cooking this rice is a straightforward process, and it really highlights that authentic Mexican dining experience.
Refried Beans
Refried beans are a classic pairing with chicken enchiladas, adding a creamy and savory touch to your dish.
These beans can be made easily from canned or freshly cooked pinto beans, flavored with spices like cumin and chili powder.
Don’t forget to smash them to the desired consistency for that authentic feel.
Grilled Street Corn
Grilled street corn is a delicious and slightly unexpected side that works wonderfully with chicken enchiladas.
Season the corn with chili powder, lime, and cotija cheese for a bold, tangy taste.
This dish is a welcome surprise and adds a lovely contrast with its charred flavor and creamy toppings.
Pineapple Salsa
Pineapple salsa is a fresh and fruity option that pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of the enchiladas.
The sweetness of the pineapple, combined with crunchy bell peppers and jalapeños, brings a refreshing twist.
Serve it cold for a vibrant and colorful addition to your meal.
Taco Soup
Taco soup is an exciting and satisfying choice, providing a warm and hearty complement to your enchiladas.
This soup, full of beans, ground beef, and spices, is perfect for dipping or enjoying on the side.
It’s a great way to mix familiar flavors with a little bit of soup variety.
Variations and Substitutions
You can make chicken enchiladas your own by trying different cheeses.
Cheese Choices:
Use Monterey Jack for a gentle flavor or switch to pepper jack for a spicier kick.
A blend of cheddar and mozzarella adds a tasty, gooey texture.
Switching up the type of tortillas can bring a new twist to your enchiladas.
Choosing Tortillas:
If you prefer, use corn tortillas instead of flour for more traditional taste.
Spinach or whole wheat tortillas add a nutritious flair.
Consider using plant-based options for a different take.
Customize the filling to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Filling Alternatives:
For something different, replace chicken with shredded beef or pork.
Add black beans or roasted veggies for a vegetarian option.
Mix in cream cheese with the chicken for a richer flavor experience.
How to Store Leftover Pioneer Woman Chicken Enchiladas
Refrigeration Tips
Make sure to place your leftover chicken enchiladas in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Store them towards the middle of your fridge to maintain a consistent temperature.
Always check for any signs of spoilage, like unusual odors or mold, before eating.
Freezing Suggestions
If you need to keep them for a longer period, freezing is a great option.
Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Label each package with the date so you can keep track of how long they’ve been stored.
Thawing Advice
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, move your enchiladas to the fridge the night before to let them thaw slowly.
Thawing gradually in the fridge helps maintain the texture and flavor.
Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using the Wrong Type of Tortillas
It’s so tempting to grab flour tortillas, but corn tortillas add that authentic flavor to your enchiladas.
Corn tortillas bring a unique taste and texture to your dish that flour tortillas just can’t match.
Overloading with Sauce
Putting too much sauce can make your enchiladas soggy, which is never fun.
Try adding just enough sauce so they hold their delicious shape while baking.
Stuffing the Tortillas Too Full
It’s easy to get carried away filling them, but overstuffing can cause them to tear.
Keep the filling light so the tortillas roll nicely and stay intact.
Pioneer Woman Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
- 12 Corn Tortillas
- 3 Tbsp Canola Oil divided
- 1 Large Onion diced
- 1 Jalapeño seeded and finely diced
- 2 1/2 cups Chicken cooked, shredded
- 3 cans Whole Green Chiles diced, 4 oz each
- 1 cup Sour Cream
- 2 cups Cheddar Cheese shredded
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Chili Powder
- Salt to taste
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- This gets your oven ready for baking the enchiladas to perfection!
- Heat 2 tablespoons of canola oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Softly fry each tortilla for about 20 seconds per side, then drain them on paper towels.
- In another skillet, use the remaining tablespoon of canola oil to sauté the diced onion and jalapeño for about 1 minute.
- Your kitchen will smell amazing already!
- Sprinkle cumin, chili powder, and salt over the chicken, then mix the seasoned chicken with the sour cream, chiles, and half of the cheese.
- This blend forms the delicious filling.
- Place a portion of the filling inside each tortilla, roll them up, and arrange in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle the top with the remaining cheese.
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