Budget-Friendly Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

Name: Budget-Friendly Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce; 8 flour tortillas; 1/2 cup diced onions; 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

This Budget-Friendly Chicken Enchiladas Recipe is a delicious and economical way to enjoy a classic Mexican dish. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, these enchiladas will become a family favorite.

Created by

Piper Andrews

Last updated on 2025-12-28T17:37:09.867Z

This Budget-Friendly Chicken Enchiladas Recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without breaking the bank. Using simple ingredients, you can create a dish that is both filling and flavorful.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Incredibly affordable and filling
Packed with tender chicken and zesty flavors
Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd

      

What Makes These Enchiladas Special

These Budget-Friendly Chicken Enchiladas stand out not only for their affordability but also for their rich, satisfying flavors. The combination of tender chicken, zesty enchilada sauce, and melted cheese creates a mouthwatering experience. Each bite is a delightful explosion of taste, making them a perfect choice for family dinners or casual gatherings.

The recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize the filling according to your preferences. Whether you want to add black beans for extra protein or throw in some corn for sweetness, the options are plentiful. This flexibility means you can enjoy a different twist on the classic enchilada every time you make them!

Perfect for Any Occasion

These enchiladas are not just a budget-friendly option; they are also ideal for meal prep! You can make a large batch and store them in the fridge or freezer for quick weeknight dinners. Simply reheat, and you have a delicious homemade meal ready to go, saving you time and effort during busy days.

Additionally, this dish is great for entertaining. When hosting a gathering, these enchiladas can easily feed a crowd. Just serve them with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh salad, and you’ll have a complete meal that will impress your guests without breaking the bank.

Ingredients

For the Enchiladas

2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
8 flour tortillas
1/2 cup diced onions
1/2 cup chopped bell peppers

Feel free to customize the ingredients by adding your favorite veggies or beans!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, half of the cheese, diced onions, and bell peppers. Mix well.

Assemble the Enchiladas

Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Take a tortilla, fill it with the chicken mixture, roll it up, and place it seam-side down in the dish. Repeat until all tortillas are filled.

Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious chicken enchiladas!

These enchiladas are great with a side of rice or a fresh salad!

Tips for the Best Chicken Enchiladas

To ensure your enchiladas are packed with flavor, consider marinating your chicken in spices before cooking it. A simple mixture of lime juice, cumin, and garlic powder can elevate the filling significantly. Additionally, using rotisserie chicken can save you time while still delivering delicious results.

Don't forget the importance of quality tortillas. Soft flour tortillas are recommended for rolling, but you can also opt for corn tortillas for a more traditional taste. Just be sure to warm them slightly before filling to prevent tearing.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your chicken enchiladas with a refreshing side of guacamole or salsa for an added burst of flavor. A dollop of sour cream can also complement the spiciness of the sauce, providing a creamy contrast that balances the dish beautifully. For a healthier option, serve them with a side of sautéed vegetables or a crisp green salad.

If you want to add some heat, consider serving these enchiladas with sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce. This little touch can take the dish to the next level, perfect for spice lovers!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?

Yes, canned chicken is a great time-saver and can be used in place of shredded cooked chicken.

→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Substitute the chicken with black beans or a mix of your favorite vegetables.

→ Can I freeze the enchiladas?

Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled enchiladas before baking. Just cover tightly and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What toppings go well with chicken enchiladas?

Sour cream, guacamole, diced tomatoes, and fresh cilantro make excellent toppings.