Healthy Chicken Enchiladas with Homemade Sauce Recipe

It was a cozy Sunday afternoon, the kind that begs for something comforting yet wholesome. As I peered into my refrigerator, the leftover cooked chicken from last night’s dinner beckoned to be transformed into something vibrant and flavorful. That’s when the idea of Healthy Chicken Enchiladas with Homemade Sauce clicked in my mind—perfectly seasoned, gooey, and oh-so-satisfying. Enchiladas have always held a special place in my heart; they remind me of family gatherings, laughter, and the warm embrace of a home-cooked meal.

This particular recipe combines tender shredded chicken, fresh veggies, and a homemade sauce that packs a punch of flavor while keeping the health factor intact. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or gathering around the table with loved ones, these enchiladas will surely steal the show!

Recipe Timing

• Prep Duration: 20 minutes
• Active Cooking: 25 minutes
• Total Duration: 45 minutes
• Portion Size: Serves 4-6
• Complexity: Simple

Nutritional Recipe

• Calories per portion: Approximately 310 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Carbs: 35g
• Fats: 10g
• Fiber: 7g
• Sugars: 3g
• Sodium: 480mg

Why You’ll Love This Healthy Chicken Enchiladas with Homemade Sauce Recipe

These enchiladas are more than just delicious; they are a balanced meal packed with lean protein, fiber, and vibrant flavors. The homemade sauce adds a touch of love (and a whole lot of taste) that you just can’t replicate with store-bought options. Plus, the whole wheat tortillas give you a wholesome twist, making every bite not just satisfying but nourishing too!

The Complete Cooking Journey

Cooking should be a joyful experience, and making these enchiladas is just that—from the fragrant aroma of sautéing garlic to the bubbling cheese golden in the oven. Not only will your kitchen smell divine, but you’ll also have a colorful dish perfect for any occasion. My family savors every bite, and I guarantee yours will too!

Ingredients:

• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 Tbsp garlic, minced
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 1 cup low sodium chicken broth
• 2 Tbsp adobo sauce (from canned chipotle peppers)
• 1 Tbsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/4 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 small yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (about 2 breasts)
• 1/2 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup black beans
• 1/2 cup enchilada sauce you just made
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 tsp cumin
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 8 (7-inch) whole wheat flour tortillas
• 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese
• Fresh cilantro and other favorite toppings, to garnish

Method:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F to prepare for baking the enchiladas.

Step 2: Make the Homemade Sauce

Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat and sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add tomato sauce, chicken broth, adobo sauce, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to low and simmer for 5 to 10 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until softened (about 2 minutes). Add shredded chicken, corn, black beans, 1/2 cup of the enchilada sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and chopped cilantro. Stir well and cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.

Step 4: Assemble the Enchiladas

Lightly coat a 13×9-inch casserole dish with nonstick spray and spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom. Spoon about 1/3 cup of the chicken filling onto each whole wheat tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam-side up in the casserole dish side by side until the dish is full.

Step 5: Bake and Enjoy

Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with shredded Mexican cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbly. Garnish with fresh cilantro and your favorite toppings before serving.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

These enchiladas are absolutely delightful on their own, but they’re even better when paired with a fresh avocado salad or a cooling cucumber salsa. To elevate your meal further, serve with a side of refried beans or a zesty corn salad for that quintessential Mexican feast experience.

Storage & Leftovers Guide

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare because they’re so tasty!), you can store the enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply bake them in the oven at 350 degrees F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips

• Make ahead: You can prepare the enchiladas up to the baking stage, cover them tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
• Mix and match: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or spinach, to the chicken filling for added nutrition and flavor!
• Adjust the heat: If you love spice, consider adding more adobo sauce or diced jalapeños.

Flavor Variations & Adaptations

• Swap the chicken for black beans or lentils for a delicious vegetarian version.
• Try different proteins like turkey or shrimp for a fun twist.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, like pepper jack for a kick!

Reader Questions & Solutions

• How can I make the sauce less spicy? Reduce the amount of adobo sauce and chili powder in the recipe.
• Can I freeze the enchiladas? Yes! They freeze well before baking. Just cover tightly and store for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen, but add a little extra time.
• What if I don’t have whole wheat tortillas? Regular flour or corn tortillas can be used, but consider the nutritional factor.
• How can I ensure the tortillas don’t crack while rolling? Lightly heat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before filling to make them more pliable.
• Can I use canned beans instead of dried? Absolutely! Rinse and drain canned beans before using them to reduce sodium content.

Wrapping Up

There you have it—your very own Healthy Chicken Enchiladas with Homemade Sauce! This recipe not only celebrates vibrant flavors but also speaks to the heart of home cooking. Remember, cooking is a journey of discovery, and there’s no better time to start than now. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and dive into this deliciously wholesome adventure. Happy cooking!

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