Green Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

Discover how to make the best Green Chicken Enchiladas with this easy recipe! Packed with tender shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and mild green chiles, these enchiladas are smothered in a savory homemade green enchilada sauce. Whether you’re craving authentic Mexican flavors or a comforting family dinner, this recipe has you covered. Perfect for meal prep, make-ahead meals, and freezer-friendly options, these green enchiladas are versatile and customizable. Serve them with classic sides like Mexican rice and beans for a complete meal everyone will love. Try this quick and delicious enchilada recipe today!

Ingredients

For the Enchiladas:
8 flour tortillas (8 inches) warmed, or 12-16 corn tortillas (see notes)
1 lb. cooked chicken (about 2 breasts or 2.5 cups shredded or chopped; see recommendations in blog)
1 (7 oz.) can mild green chiles, drained (fire-roasted preferred)
4 oz. cream cheese, at room temperature (see notes)
3-4 cups shredded cheese of choice (recommended blend: Colby Jack & mozzarella)
Salt & pepper to taste (recommended: ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp pepper)
¼ cup diced onion (optional)
For the Green Enchilada Sauce:
1 batch of homemade Salsa Verde (about 2 cups, or a 16 oz. jar of store-bought Salsa Verde)
1 cup chicken broth (reduce to ¼ cup if using store-bought Salsa Verde)
2 tbsp olive oil

Table of Contents

Instructions

Make the Green Enchilada Sauce:

In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the Salsa Verde, stirring frequently, and cook for about 2 minutes. (Note: It may splatter, so stir often and don’t overheat.)
Add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Lower the heat slightly and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove the pan from heat and let the sauce cool while you prepare the enchilada filling.

Prepare the Green Chicken Enchiladas:

In a large bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, green chiles, cream cheese, 1 cup of shredded cheese, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Grease a 9×13 baking dish with oil or non-stick spray. Spread a thin layer of Green Enchilada Sauce over the bottom of the dish.
For each enchilada, fill a warmed tortilla with ⅓-½ cup of the chicken filling, roll it tightly, and place it seam-side down in the baking dish.
Once all tortillas are filled and arranged in the dish, pour the remaining Green Enchilada Sauce over the top.
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the enchiladas.
Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. (If you prefer less browning, cover with foil for the first 20 minutes, then bake uncovered for the final 10-15 minutes.)
Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve alongside your favorite Mexican side dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Green Chicken Enchiladas are savory, comforting, and easy to make, combining tender chicken, melty cheese, and creamy sauce for the ultimate Mexican-inspired meal. They are customizable, making them perfect for family meals or gatherings.

Tips

For extra flavor, use fire-roasted green chiles.
Allow cream cheese to reach room temperature for easier mixing.
Warm tortillas before filling to prevent cracking when rolled.
Cover with foil for part of the baking if you want softer cheese on top.

Variations and Substitutions

Meat: Try shredded pork or beef instead of chicken.
Tortillas: Swap flour tortillas for corn if preferred. Corn tortillas can add more authentic flavor.
Cheese: Substitute with your favorite cheese blend, such as Cheddar or Pepper Jack, for different flavor profiles.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead?
Yes! Prepare the enchiladas up to the point of baking, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Can I freeze these enchiladas?
Yes. Freeze them before baking in an oven-safe dish. Cover tightly, and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Green Chicken Enchiladas with classic sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad. Add a dollop of sour cream, guacamole, or a sprinkle of extra cilantro for extra flavor.

Enjoy!