Chicken Lime Enchiladas Recipes (2024)

HomeRecipe ListMain DishChicken Lime Enchiladas Recipes

Posted by Aimee 31 comments
Published: Jan 08, 2020 Last Updated: Oct 10, 2020

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Chicken enchiladas covered in melty cheese and flavored with zesty lime are begging to be added to your meal plan this week. With tons of flavor and just the right amount of heat, these easy Chicken Enchiladas make everyone happy at dinnertime!

Fore more tex mex flavor, be sure to try my delicious Chicken Enchilada Mac and Cheese recipe!!! Top it with some homemade pico de gallo for a fresh pop of color and flavor.

Chicken Lime Enchiladas Recipes (1)

Why this Chicken Enchilada Recipe is Amazing

I have a thing for cheese. And foods covered in cheese. And foods stuffed with cheese. Basically, if cheese is involved in any way, shape or form, sign me up.

But right now let’s talk about enchiladas.

Specifically, let’s talk enchiladas stuffed with tender chicken and smothered in a creamy cheesy tangy sauce.

Topped with sour cream, jalapenos and fresh tomatoes, Chicken Lime Enchiladas are everything I want in a Mexican inspired meal!

Somewhere between a casserole and a taco, enchiladas make just about everybody happy.

While I love all kinds of enchilada recipes, including Beef Enchiladas and vegetarianButternut Squash Black Bean Enchiladas, I think Chicken Enchiladas might steal the top spot for me.

Just about everyone loves chicken and I’ve yet to meet a dinner guest who’ll turn down a plate of enchiladas. That makes Chicken Enchiladas a surefire hit whether I’m serving them to my own family or to company.

Shredded chicken and cheese rolled in a flour tortilla (you can also use corn tortillas) is already a recipe for a delicious dinner. When you add a creamy spicy sauce and more cheese, these enchiladas become next-level tasty.

Served as a meal on their own or with a side of Cilantro Lime Rice, these Chicken Lime Enchiladas are a hit with kids and adults alike.

Chicken Lime Enchiladas Recipes (2)

Keep it Creamy

The biggest danger with many enchilada recipes is the enchiladas drying out as they bake in the oven. No one wants to chew through a dry tough tortilla when trying to get to the tender cheesy chicken inside!

This recipe solves that potential problem with a creamy enchilada sauce that goes right on top before baking.

This makes a nice change from the typical red chile enchilada sauce that’s every bit as spicy and flavorful.

If you like these creamy chicken enchiladas, you’re also sure to loveChicken Avocado Enchiladas!

Chicken Lime Enchiladas Recipes (3)

Ingredient Notes

Don’t let the long ingredients list fool you. This enchilada recipes is easy enough for a busy weeknight meal, especially if you have leftover cooked chicken on hand.

You’ll need. . .

  • Flour tortillas (burrito sized)
  • Cooked and shredded chicken breasts
  • Monterrey Jack and cheddar cheese
  • Garlic
  • Butter
  • Corn starch
  • Chicken broth
  • Onion powder
  • Garlic powder
  • Cumin
  • Black pepper
  • Jalapeno
  • Lime juice
  • Sour cream
  • Cilantro, lettuce, tomato and avocado salsa (for garnish)

How to Make Chicken Enchiladas

Chicken Lime Enchiladas Recipes (4)
  1. In a small bowl mix shredded chicken with 1 cup of the cheese blend pressed garlic. Fill 6 tortillas equally. Roll the tortillas and lay in a 9×9 square baking dish.
  2. In a small saucepan on medium heat, melt butter completely. Whisk in the corn starch and cook for one minute. Whisk in broth, stirring constantly. Keep stirring until mixture becomes thick. Quickly add onion and garlic powder, cumin, jalapeno, lime juice, salt and pepper. Fold in sour cream and remove from heat.
  3. Pour mixture over enchiladas and top with remaining cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes in a 350 degree oven, uncovered.
  4. Serve with chopped cilantro, lettuce, tomato and diced avocado. Enjoy!

Leftovers keep well covered in the fridge for a couple of days. We like the enchiladas so much that we rarely end up with leftovers!

Recipe Notes

  • I used burrito sized flour tortillas for this recipe. You could also substitute corn tortillas or fajita sized flour tortillas, but you will need to use more of them.
  • Tip: heat tortillas in the microwave for 10 – 15 seconds for easier rolling! This is especially useful if you use corn tortillas, which tend to break more easily when rolling.
  • I like using leftover chicken breasts from other meals to make this recipe even easier. For a quick weeknight option when you don’t have chicken ready to go, grab a rotisserie chicken from the grocery store!
  • Homemade Taco Seasoning can be subbed for the spices in the recipe, if you like.
  • Feel free to double the recipe and use two baking dishes if you’re feeding a crowd.
  • Try topping the enchiladas with a littleEasy Pico de Gallo recipe orGuacamole as a fun alternative to (or addition to) the other garnishes.
Chicken Lime Enchiladas Recipes (5)

More Mexican inspired dishes

If you’ve ready this blog for any length of time you’ve probably noticed that I don’t shy away from the Mexican flavors.

Along with my chicken enchiladas, I love these Slow Cooker Tequila Chicken Tacos, Stuffed Taco Shells andEasy Crock Pot Pork Carnitas, to name just a few.

Can’t get enough enchiladas? Me either. GiveSlow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Soup a try to warm your belly and soul on a chilly day.

You’ll also enjoySlow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Chili for the perfect comfort food.

Recipe FAQs

What are the best tortillas for enchiladas?

Traditionally, enchiladas are made with corn tortillas. However, my family prefers flour tortillas. Choose the one your family loves best.

Can enchiladas be made ahead of time?

You can bake your enchiladas ahead of time and refrigerate them after they have cooled. Reheat in oven or microwave.

Can you freeze chicken enchiladas?

After assembly, cover and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.

More Easy Dinner Recipes:

  • Ravioli Lasagna
  • Pesto Pasta
  • Pork Carnitas
  • Fish Tacos
  • Crockpot Enchilada

Chicken Lime Enchiladas Recipes (6)

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Chicken Lime Enchiladas

4.75 from 12 votes

By: Aimee

Chicken enchiladas covered in melty cheese and flavored with zesty lime are begging to be added to your meal plan this week. With tons of flavor and just the right amount of heat, these easy Chicken Enchiladas make everyone happy at dinnertime!

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes minutes

Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 6 flour tortillas burrito sized (or 12 small tortillas)
  • 3 chicken breasts cooked and shredded
  • 12 ounce shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic pressed
  • ¼ cup butter
  • 3 Tablespoons corn starch
  • 1 ½ cup chicken broth
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons cumin
  • 1 jalapeno seeded and chopped
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 5 cranks fresh ground black pepper
  • 1 lime juiced
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • cilantro lettuce, tomato and avocado for garnish

Instructions

  • In a small bowl mix shredded chicken with 1 cup of the cheese and the pressed garlic. Fill 6 tortillas equally. Roll the tortillas and lay in a 9×9 square baking dish. You can also do two rows of small tortillas as pictured.

  • In a small saucepan on medium heat, melt butter completely. Whisk in the corn starch and cook for one minute. Whisk in broth, stirring constantly. Keep stirring until mixture becomes thick. Quickly add onion and garlic powder, cumin, jalapeno, lime juice, salt and pepper. Fold in sour cream and remove from heat.

  • Pour mixture over enchiladas and top with remaining cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes in a 350 degree oven, uncovered.

  • Serve with chopped cilantro, lettuce, tomato and diced avocado. Enjoy!

Notes

  • I used burrito sized flour tortillas for this recipe. You could also substitute corn tortillas or fajita sized flour tortillas, but you will need to use more of them.
  • Tip: heat tortillas in the microwave for 10 – 15 seconds for easier rolling! This is especially useful if you use corn tortillas, which tend to break more easily when rolling.
  • I like using leftover chicken breasts from other meals to make this recipe even easier. For a quick weeknight option when you don't have chicken ready to go, grab a rotisserie chicken from the grocery store!
  • Homemade Taco Seasoning can be subbed for the spices in the recipe, if you like.
  • Feel free to double the recipe and use two baking dishes if you're feeding a crowd.
  • Try topping the enchiladas with a littleEasy Pico de Gallo recipe orGuacamole as a fun alternative to (or addition to) the other garnishes.
  • Nutrition

    Calories: 782kcal, Carbohydrates: 50g, Protein: 43g, Fat: 46g, Saturated Fat: 24g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 18g, Trans Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 155mg, Sodium: 1529mg, Fiber: 6g, Sugar: 4g

    Course: Main Dish

    Cuisine: Mexican

    Did you make this recipe?Mention @shugarysweets or tag #shugarysweets!

    These creamy Chicken Lime Enchiladas just might become your new favorite dinner time staple. Give them a try tonight!

    Chicken Lime Enchiladas Recipes (2024)

    FAQs

    What is the secret to good enchiladas? ›

    Pre-fry your tortillas

    Fry each of your tortillas in hot oil before adding in your enchilada filling. This will help keep the tortillas from soaking up too much of your sauce too quickly, which can also cause them to break apart.

    How do you cook real good chicken enchiladas? ›

    Leave Enchiladas wrapped in film and poke holes to ventilate. 3. Place tray in microwave & heat on high for 3 minutes 30 seconds to 4 minutes 30 seconds. Let sit 1 minute.

    Do you put sauce on enchiladas before or after baking? ›

    Step 1: Make 10 minute homemade red enchilada sauce using fridge and pantry staples. Step 2: Sprinkle shredded Mexican blend cheese into the centers of corn tortillas then roll and place inside a casserole dish. Step 3: Cover with red sauce then bake.

    Is it better to cook enchiladas covered or uncovered? ›

    Assemble the remaining enchiladas. Then spread any remaining sauce evenly over the top of the enchiladas, followed by any extra cheese. Bake. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, until the enchiladas are cooked through and the tortillas are slightly crispy on the outside.

    What is the best melting cheese for enchiladas? ›

    Monterey Jack is a mild, creamy cheese that melts easily and adds a smooth texture to the enchiladas.

    What can I add to canned enchilada sauce to make it taste better? ›

    Then when the sauce is almost finished, a quick blend with a blender or immersion blender results in a smooth sauce. Add seasonings - Cumin, chili powder, Mexican oregano, etc. are great ways to punch up the flavor of canned enchilada sauce. You might also consider adding a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.

    Should I cover my enchiladas with foil when I bake them? ›

    Most enchiladas are baked and covered with foil until heated through. Oven temperatures and baking times vary per recipe, but on average they cook in a 350°F oven for about 25 minutes. Sprinkle the cheese on top of the enchiladas after they are heated through.

    Are enchiladas better with corn or flour? ›

    While some recipes use flour tortillas, corn tortillas are traditional — and for good reason — are the better option for enchiladas.

    How do you keep enchiladas from getting mushy? ›

    The most important tip for avoiding soggy enchiladas is to briefly fry your tortillas in hot oil before you fill and roll. This creates a little bit of a barrier so that the tortillas don't soak up too much of the sauce and therefore start to break down.

    Does enchilada sauce go inside or on top? ›

    Roll up tightly and place seam side down in the baking dish. Spoon the enchilada sauce over the tortillas and scatter over the reserved cheese. Grease a large sheet of foil with cooking spray or oil and cover the baking dish, grease side down. Cook in the oven for 15 minutes or until the cheese has fully melted.

    How long do you cook enchiladas at 350 in the oven? ›

    Spoon some meat mixture and cheese into the center of each tortilla, roll them up and arrange them in a 9x13 inch baking dish or oblong pan. Pour the enchilada sauce over the rolled enchiladas and top with any remaining meat or cheese. Bake in the preheated 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 20 to 30 minutes.

    What can I use instead of enchilada sauce? ›

    Tomato sauce is a good way to replace enchilada sauce if you're looking for a milder alternative. It's easy to take a pre-made tomato sauce and spice it and add other ingredients to get closer to a real enchilada sauce.

    What to serve with chicken enchiladas? ›

    Chopped salad, rice pilaf, fresh guacamole, and street corn dip – these all go great with chicken enchiladas! This iconic tortilla dish can be made with slow cooker shredded chicken or leftover rotisserie chicken, a great main course!

    Can you pre make enchiladas or will they get soggy? ›

    If you would like to make a pan of enchiladas in advance, follow the recipe instructions through step 3 (assembling the enchiladas). Wrap the pan tightly with foil. Then you can either refrigerate the enchiladas for up to 3 days, then bake as directed.

    How do you know when enchiladas are done in the oven? ›

    Wrap tortillas tightly around filling, placing seam side down in baking dish. Top enchiladas with enchilada sauce and remaining cheese. Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until hot and cheese is melted. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.

    Do enchiladas taste better with corn or flour tortillas? ›

    While some recipes use flour tortillas, corn tortillas are traditional — and for good reason — are the better option for enchiladas. Corn tortillas have a distinct flavor that plays a key part of the enchilada experience, compared to flour tortillas, which are more like a blank slate.

    How to stop enchiladas from being soggy? ›

    The most important tip for avoiding soggy enchiladas is to briefly fry your tortillas in hot oil before you fill and roll. This creates a little bit of a barrier so that the tortillas don't soak up too much of the sauce and therefore start to break down.

    Why do you dip tortillas in oil for enchiladas? ›

    First, it creates a barrier on the surface of the tortilla that allows the tortilla to absorb some sauce—but avoid completely disintegrating. Second, it adds flavor; the sugar in the tortilla starts to caramelize and the proteins brown. Finally, it adds richness from the oil.

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