Picture this: a cozy evening, the sun setting, and the aroma of spicy, baked chicken enchiladas wafting through the air. This High Protein Chicken Enchiladas recipe is not only a delight to your taste buds but also a standout solution for anyone looking to elevate their dinner game. With a hearty filling of tender shredded chicken, nutritious black beans, and sweet corn, all wrapped snugly in warm whole wheat tortillas, every bite delivers a comforting punch of flavor.
I stumbled upon this incredible recipe during a busy week when fast food just wouldn’t cut it anymore. The vibrant spices of cumin and chili powder come alive as you bake these cheesy beauties to golden perfection. This isn’t just an easy dinner; it’s a wholesome family meal that brings everyone together around the table. Whether it’s a weeknight supper or a special gathering, these enchiladas promise to be both nutritious and crowd-pleasing. So, grab your apron, and let’s create a feast that will make your kitchen the heart of your home once more!
Why Are High Protein Chicken Enchiladas So Amazing?
Simple preparation: With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
Nutritious and satisfying: Packed with protein and fiber, these enchiladas keep you feeling full and energized while being incredibly wholesome.
Family favorite: The rich, cheesy goodness wrapped in whole wheat tortillas appeals to both kids and adults, making it a meal everyone will love.
Versatile option: Customize the filling with your favorite veggies or beans for a unique spin each time you make it.
Flavorful experience: The combination of spices adds depth and warmth, turning a simple dinner into a gourmet experience that feels special.
For simple and delicious sour cream to serve alongside, you’ll elevate your enchiladas even more!
High Protein Chicken Enchiladas Ingredients
Curious about what makes these enchiladas shine? Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delightful, nutritious meal your family will adore!
For the Filling
- Cooked shredded chicken – The protein-packed base of your enchiladas; feel free to use store-bought rotisserie for convenience.
- Black beans (rinsed and drained) – Adds fiber and heartiness; rinsing reduces excess sodium.
- Corn (frozen or canned) – Provides a natural sweetness; whole kernel corn adds a hearty crunch.
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend) – Melts beautifully to create a deliciously golden topping.
For the Sauce
- Enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade) – Essential for flavor and moisture, ensuring your enchiladas stay tender and delicious!
For the Wrap
- Whole wheat tortillas – These add fiber and a wholesome touch; warming them before use makes them easier to roll.
For Seasoning
- Cumin – Brings an earthy depth to the dish.
- Chili powder – A touch of smoky heat elevates the flavor profile.
- Garlic powder – Adds a subtle warmth that complements the other spices.
- Salt & pepper – Basic seasoning to balance and enhance all flavors.
For Garnishing
- Fresh cilantro (optional garnish) – Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness.
- Sour cream (optional for serving) – Provides a creamy, cooling contrast to the spicy enchiladas.
With these ingredients, you’ll be all set to whip up incredibly tasty High Protein Chicken Enchiladas that will become a staple in your household!
How to Make High Protein Chicken Enchiladas
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your enchiladas bake evenly and become wonderfully bubbly and golden on top.
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Mix all your filling ingredients: shredded chicken, black beans, corn, half the shredded cheese, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until well-combined. This aromatic mixture will be the heart of your enchiladas!
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Warm the whole wheat tortillas briefly in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This step is crucial! It makes them pliable, preventing cracking when you roll them.
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Spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture into the center of each tortilla; then, roll them tightly and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish. This way, the filling stays snugly inside for each delicious bite.
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Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas, ensuring they are completely covered. This not only adds flavor but keeps the enchiladas moist as they bake.
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Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the sauced tortillas. This will create a beautiful, melty, and golden layer that everyone loves!
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Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. The anticipation will be worth it!
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Cool your enchiladas for 10–15 minutes before serving. This brief pause allows the flavors to meld and the filling to set slightly, making it easier to slice.
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Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, adding a delightful layer of freshness to each serving!
Optional: Serve with a dollop of sour cream for a creamy contrast to the spiced enchiladas.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These High Protein Chicken Enchiladas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the enchiladas and refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance, making your busy weeknights a breeze. Simply follow the steps to prepare the filling and roll each tortilla before placing them in a greased baking dish, then cover with enchilada sauce and cheese. To ensure they stay fresh, wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, remove the wrap and pop them in the preheated oven, baking for 30–35 minutes until bubbly and golden. This method allows you to enjoy delicious, home-cooked enchiladas without the last-minute rush!
What to Serve with High Protein Chicken Enchiladas?
Imagine creating a wonderful meal that boasts both flavor and nutrition, perfectly complementing each delicious bite of your enchiladas.
- Mexican Rice: A fluffy side that absorbs the rich enchilada sauce, enhancing your dining experience with every spoonful.
- Fresh Guacamole: Creamy and luscious, it adds a refreshing contrast to the spiciness of the enchiladas, making each bite even more enjoyable.
- Classic Green Salad: A crisp mix of lettuce, tomatoes, and avocados drizzled with zesty lime vinaigrette balances out the hearty nature of the enchiladas beautifully.
- Sweet Corn on the Cob: The natural sweetness of corn pairs harmoniously, offering a satisfying crunch that complements the tender tortillas.
- Black Bean Soup: A warm and savory option that echoes the flavors of the enchiladas, adding a comforting touch to your meal.
- Sour Cream: This classic accompaniment provides a creamy, cooling effect that balances the spices wonderfully while adding lusciousness.
- Chips and Salsa: A crunchy starter or side that introduces a festive vibe, perfect for getting everyone ready to dig into the main dish!
Every option contributes to a delightful and wholesome dining experience, transforming your dinner table into a feast full of warmth and flavor!
Expert Tips for High Protein Chicken Enchiladas
- Tortilla Warm-Up: Warm tortillas just enough to prevent cracking while rolling; overheating will make them soggy, compromising the texture.
- Generous Sauce Layer: Use a generous layer of enchilada sauce to keep your high protein chicken enchiladas moist and flavorful during baking.
- Cooling Time: Allow the enchiladas to cool for 10–15 minutes before serving; this helps the filling set, making for easier slicing and serving.
- Cheese Inside & Out: Mix half the cheese into the filling for rich creaminess; save the rest for the top to achieve a deliciously golden crust.
- Homemade Sauce Flavor: For a truly flavorful experience, consider making your own enchilada sauce using roasted tomatoes, chili powder, garlic, and cumin.
Storage Tips for High Protein Chicken Enchiladas
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your high protein chicken enchiladas fresh and ready to enjoy!
Freezer: Freeze assembled enchiladas before baking by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They can last up to 3 months; just thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. Alternatively, microwave until heated through, ensuring they remain tender.
Make-Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate enchiladas up to 24 hours before baking. This makes for an easy dinner option without sacrificing flavor!
High Protein Chicken Enchiladas Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to make these enchiladas your own with creative twists that suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
- Turkey Swap: Replace shredded chicken with cooked turkey for a lighter version that’s just as delicious.
- Corn Tortillas: Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free alternative; just warm them to avoid breakage.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or green chilies to the filling for a delightful spicy surprise in every bite.
- Bean Options: Substitute black beans for pinto or kidney beans, bringing a new texture and flavor profile to your enchiladas.
- Veggie Boost: Mix in sautéed onions or bell peppers for extra nutrients and a delicious flavor boost, adding color and crunch.
- Creamy Touch: Top your finished enchiladas with avocado slices or fresh diced tomatoes for a refreshing garnish that brightens each bite.
- Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheese blends, like pepper jack for a spicy twist or mozzarella for a gooey texture.
- Herb Infusion: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like oregano or thyme to the filling for an aromatic twist that enhances the overall flavor.
Embrace the joy of cooking and sprinkle in your unique flavors!
High Protein Chicken Enchiladas Recipe FAQs
What kind of shredded chicken should I use?
Absolutely! You can use either pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience or homemade shredded chicken if you have time. Just ensure the chicken is moist and flavorful, as this serves as the protein base of your enchiladas.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Very! You can store your high protein chicken enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let them cool completely before covering, as this helps preserve their texture.
Can I freeze these enchiladas for later?
Absolutely! To freeze, assemble your enchiladas but don’t bake them yet. Wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed!
What should I do if the tortillas crack while rolling?
If your tortillas are cracking, it’s often because they’re not warm enough. Warm them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to make them pliable before rolling. You might also consider using fresh tortillas since they tend to be more flexible!
Are these enchiladas suitable for people with dairy allergies?
For sure! You can easily customize this recipe to be dairy-free by substituting the cheese with a dairy-free alternative or omitting it entirely. Just make sure to check the ingredients of your enchilada sauce to ensure it’s also dairy-free. Enjoy your delicious, high protein chicken enchiladas without worry!
High Protein Chicken Enchiladas: Easy, Flavorful Family Dinner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix all filling ingredients in a large bowl until well-combined.
- Warm the whole wheat tortillas briefly in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
- Spoon chicken mixture into the center of each tortilla, roll tightly and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, ensuring they are completely covered.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
- Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
- Cool enchiladas for 10-15 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.