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 shredded cooked chicken; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce; 8 small flour tortillas; 1/2 cup chopped onion; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; Sliced jalapeños (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Enjoy a flavorful and affordable meal with these delicious chicken enchiladas, perfect for any weeknight dinner.

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2025-12-28T19:40:09.518Z

This budget-friendly chicken enchiladas recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with flavors that will satisfy your entire family. Using simple ingredients, you can create a comforting dish that's perfect for busy weeknights.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
Flavorful filling that everyone will enjoy
Perfect for meal prep or leftovers

      

A Delicious Weeknight Option

When it comes to weeknight dinners, simplicity is key. These budget-friendly chicken enchiladas deliver on flavor while requiring minimal effort. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that will please the whole family. Whether you’re coming home late from work or juggling kids’ activities, this recipe is your go-to solution for a quick and delicious dinner.

The versatility of chicken enchiladas means you can easily customize the filling to suit your family's tastes. Feel free to swap in other proteins like ground beef or black beans, or load them up with extra veggies for a healthier twist. This adaptability makes them perfect for any occasion, from a busy weeknight to a casual gathering with friends.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you're looking to save time during the week, these chicken enchiladas are an excellent choice for meal prepping. You can assemble them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for a few days or freeze them for later. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat, and you’ll have a home-cooked meal ready in no time.

Additionally, the leftovers from this dish taste just as great the next day. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick lunch or dinner. This makes chicken enchiladas not just a meal, but a convenient solution that keeps on giving throughout the week.

Elevate Your Enchiladas

While this recipe is already delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to elevate your enchiladas. Consider adding toppings like avocado slices, diced tomatoes, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice to add a burst of flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for added spice or goat cheese for a tangy twist.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, don't hesitate to enhance your enchiladas with spicy salsa or hot sauce. This not only elevates the taste but also allows each family member to customize their plate according to their spice tolerance. The possibilities for making this dish your own are endless!

Ingredients

For the Enchiladas

2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
8 small flour tortillas
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

For Topping

1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Sliced jalapeños (optional)

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before you start assembling the enchiladas.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, half of the cheese, chopped onion, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Assemble the Enchiladas

Spread a small amount of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture in each tortilla, roll them up, and place seam-side down in the dish.

Add Sauce and Cheese

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

Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly.

Serve

Let cool for a few minutes, then serve topped with sour cream, cilantro, and jalapeños if desired.

Enjoy your delicious and budget-friendly chicken enchiladas!

Tips for Success

To ensure your enchiladas roll up easily, warm the tortillas for a few seconds in the microwave or on a skillet before filling them. This will make them more pliable and prevent tearing. Additionally, don’t overfill the tortillas; about 1/4 cup of filling works perfectly to keep them manageable.

When it comes to the sauce, you can use store-bought enchilada sauce for convenience or make your own for a personalized touch. A homemade sauce allows you to control the spice levels and flavors, making your enchiladas even more delightful.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your chicken enchiladas with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans for a complete meal. The hearty sides complement the enchiladas beautifully and add even more flavor to your plate. You can also pair them with a fresh salad topped with lime vinaigrette for a refreshing crunch.

For a fun twist, consider serving your enchiladas with nachos or quesadillas on the side. This creates a festive atmosphere perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers. Everyone loves a good spread, and these additions will surely impress your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time saver.

→ Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas and store them in the fridge before baking.

→ What can I substitute for flour tortillas?

You can use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.