Budget-Friendly Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

Name: Budget-Friendly Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); 1 cup enchilada sauce; 8 corn tortillas; 1/2 cup diced onion; 1/2 cup sour cream (optional); Chopped cilantro; Sliced jalapeños; Additional cheese

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

This Budget-Friendly Chicken Enchiladas Recipe is a delicious and economical way to enjoy a classic Mexican dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep!

Created by

Margaret Hill

Last updated on 2025-12-30T01:19:17.002Z

This recipe for budget-friendly chicken enchiladas brings together tender chicken, zesty sauce, and gooey cheese all wrapped in soft tortillas. Enjoy the rich flavors without breaking the bank!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Affordable ingredients that won't strain your wallet
Hearty and filling, perfect for family dinners
Versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite toppings

      

A Flavorful Twist on Tradition

Enchiladas are a beloved staple in Mexican cuisine, celebrated for their versatility and rich flavors. This budget-friendly version keeps the essence of traditional enchiladas while utilizing affordable ingredients, making it perfect for families and those on a tight budget. The combination of shredded chicken, cheese, and enchilada sauce wrapped in soft corn tortillas creates a comforting meal that everyone will love.

By using cooked shredded chicken, you can cut down on preparation time, making this dish ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, the option to customize with various toppings allows each family member to enjoy a personalized plate. Whether you’re a fan of spicy jalapeños or prefer a cooling dollop of sour cream, these enchiladas are sure to satisfy various taste preferences.

Meal Prep Made Easy

This chicken enchiladas recipe is not just delicious; it's also an excellent option for meal prep. You can prepare a large batch and store them in the fridge or freezer for quick meals throughout the week. Simply assemble the enchiladas, cover them tightly with foil, and freeze before baking. When you're ready to enjoy them, just pop them in the oven without thawing, adjusting the baking time as needed.

Additionally, the leftovers can be easily reheated in the microwave or oven, making them a convenient choice for lunch or dinner. With this recipe, you not only save time but also reduce food waste, ensuring that every meal is both economical and satisfying.

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken enchiladas offer a balanced meal option packed with protein and essential nutrients. The shredded chicken provides a hearty source of lean protein, which is crucial for muscle repair and overall health. Coupled with the vitamins and minerals found in onions and cilantro, this dish not only delights the palate but also nourishes the body.

Moreover, by choosing whole grain or corn tortillas, you can increase fiber intake, promoting better digestion and sustained energy levels. This recipe allows you to enjoy a delicious comfort food without compromising nutritional value, making it a smart choice for health-conscious eaters.

Ingredients

For the Enchiladas

2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
1 cup enchilada sauce
8 corn tortillas
1/2 cup diced onion
1/2 cup sour cream (optional)

For Topping

Chopped cilantro
Sliced jalapeños
Additional cheese

Feel free to add any other toppings you love, such as avocado or lettuce!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, half of the cheese, diced onion, and half of the enchilada sauce.

Assemble the Enchiladas

Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet for a few seconds on each side. Spoon the chicken mixture into each tortilla, roll them up, and place them seam-side down in a baking dish.

Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Serve

Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with sour cream, cilantro, and jalapeños as desired.

Enjoy your delicious homemade enchiladas!

Tips for Perfect Enchiladas

To ensure your enchiladas come out perfectly, it’s essential to warm your corn tortillas before assembling. This step makes them pliable and easier to roll without tearing. You can warm them in a skillet for a few seconds on each side or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave them for about 30 seconds.

Another tip is to consider using a mix of cheeses for added flavor. While cheddar is a classic choice, a Mexican cheese blend can enhance the overall taste of your enchiladas. Don't be afraid to experiment with your favorite varieties!

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, cover them with foil to prevent drying out and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes.

For longer storage, consider freezing the assembled but unbaked enchiladas. You can also freeze individual portions for a quick meal on busy days. Just remember to label your containers with the date to keep track of freshness!

Customization Ideas

One of the best aspects of this chicken enchiladas recipe is its adaptability. You can easily swap out the shredded chicken for shredded beef, pork, or even a vegetarian option like black beans or roasted vegetables. This flexibility allows you to cater to different dietary preferences and create new flavor profiles.

Toppings are another area to get creative. Besides the classic sour cream and cilantro, consider adding avocado slices, diced tomatoes, or a sprinkle of lime juice for a fresh twist. The possibilities are endless, making this dish not only budget-friendly but also fun and exciting!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?

Yes, you can use flour tortillas, but corn tortillas are traditional for enchiladas.

→ How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add diced green chilies or use a spicier enchilada sauce.

→ Can I freeze these enchiladas?

Absolutely! Assemble them, cover tightly, and freeze before baking. When ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding a bit of extra time.

→ What can I serve with enchiladas?

Serve with rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.