Name: Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: 3 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or leftover) 2 cups red enchilada sauce 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese 8 medium corn or flour tortillas 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon ground cumin 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Golden, gooey, and packed with flavor—these Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas are the ultimate comfort food that brings a fiesta to your dinner table. Wrapped in soft tortillas and drenched in a savory red enchilada sauce, each bite delivers juicy chicken, melted cheese, and just the right hint of spice. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when hosting friends, this dish is satisfying without being overly complicated.

This version of enchiladas is all about rich flavor and creamy texture. Using rotisserie chicken keeps it easy, while layering in sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses ensures every bite is decadently melty. Whether you’re new to making enchiladas or a seasoned pro, this recipe will earn a permanent spot in your meal rotation.

What Kind of Tortillas Work Best for Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas?

Corn tortillas give the dish a more traditional texture and flavor, but they can crack when rolling. To prevent this, lightly warm the corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave to make them pliable. Flour tortillas are easier to roll and stay soft but tend to soak up more sauce. If you’re looking for ease and structure, flour tortillas are your go-to. For authentic taste and a bit of texture, stick with corn.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas

Shredded Cooked Chicken – This is the star of the filling. Rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken keeps things simple and flavorful.

Red Enchilada Sauce – Use your favorite canned version or make your own from scratch for a deeper flavor. This coats the tortillas and adds signature warmth and spice.

Cheddar Cheese – Sharp cheddar brings a bold, tangy richness that stands out against the sauce.

Monterey Jack Cheese – Creamy and mild, this cheese melts beautifully, balancing the cheddar with a smooth texture.

Tortillas – Either corn or flour depending on your preference. Corn gives more chew, flour offers a softer roll.

Chopped Onion – Adds a subtle bite and aromatic flavor to the chicken filling.

Garlic Powder – Enhances the savory flavor in the filling.

Ground Cumin – A must-have for a warm, earthy undertone.

Fresh Cilantro (optional) – Sprinkled on top for color and a fresh herbal note.

How To Make the Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas

Step 1: Prep the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, half of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, chopped onion, garlic powder, and ground cumin. Mix everything until well combined. This flavorful mixture will be the heart of your enchiladas.

Step 2: Warm the Tortillas

To make the tortillas more pliable and prevent cracking, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for about 30 seconds. Alternatively, warm them one by one in a dry skillet for a few seconds per side.

Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas

Spoon the chicken and cheese mixture evenly into each tortilla. Roll tightly and place seam-side down in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Line them up side by side until the dish is full.

Step 4: Add the Sauce and Cheese

Pour the red enchilada sauce generously over the rolled tortillas, making sure each one is well coated. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the top to create that irresistible cheesy crust.

Step 5: Bake to Melty Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the enchiladas uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden around the edges.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. Top with fresh chopped cilantro if desired, and serve hot with your favorite sides like Spanish rice, guacamole, or a crisp salad.

How to Serve and Store Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas

These enchiladas are best served straight from the oven when the cheese is hot and bubbly. Pair them with a dollop of sour cream, a spoonful of guacamole, or a light side salad with citrus dressing to balance the richness. Spanish rice and refried beans also make classic companions.

Leftovers? No problem. Store any uneaten enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes or microwave in 1-minute bursts until warmed through. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months—just wrap tightly in foil and store in a freezer-safe bag.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of chicken works best?

Shredded rotisserie chicken is ideal for flavor and convenience, but you can also use grilled, baked, or even poached chicken breasts.

Can I use green enchilada sauce instead?

Yes! Green enchilada sauce will give you a tangier, brighter flavor. It pairs beautifully with chicken and Monterey Jack cheese.

Are these enchiladas spicy?

The spice level depends on the enchilada sauce you choose. Use mild sauce for less heat, or spicy versions for a kick. You can also add chopped jalapeños to the filling if you like it hot.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the enchiladas a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Add sauce and cheese right before baking.

What toppings go well with these?

Fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, avocado, jalapeño slices, sour cream, or a drizzle of lime crema all make fantastic additions.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Sure! Swap the chicken for black beans, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted veggies. The cheesy goodness still shines.

Want More Dinner Ideas with a Cheesy Twist?

If these Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas hit the spot, you’re going to love these other crave-worthy dishes:

• Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce for a hearty pasta bake.
• Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo if you’re craving a rich, spicy skillet dinner.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli for the ultimate weeknight comfort meal.
• French Onion Chicken Bake brings the warmth of a soup into a cheesy main course.
• Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole for a budget-friendly baked pasta you’ll want on repeat.

These recipes are all about big flavor, creamy sauces, and gooey cheese—just like our enchiladas.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can always have it handy for taco nights, potlucks, or whenever a cheesy craving hits.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with corn or flour tortillas? Did you spice it up with jalapeños or keep it mild?

I love seeing your creations and hearing how you made this dish your own. Ask questions, swap tips—let’s help each other make dinner even better.

You can also follow along for more easy meals and cheesy ideas over on my Pinterest @hallarecipes!