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 cooked shredded chicken; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); 1 cup enchilada sauce; 8 small flour or corn tortillas; 1/2 cup diced onion; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Additional cheese for sprinkling; Sour cream (optional); Chopped cilantro (optional)

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 make, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.

Created by

Elara Whitfield

Last updated on 2025-12-28T21:01:12.641Z

This Budget-Friendly Chicken Enchiladas Recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a great way to use up leftover chicken. The enchiladas are filled with a savory chicken mixture, rolled in tortillas, and topped with a zesty sauce. Perfect for feeding a family or hosting a casual gathering!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Affordable ingredients that won’t break the bank
Flavorful and satisfying, perfect for any night
Quick preparation means you can enjoy it in no time

      

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Budget-Friendly Chicken Enchiladas are not just a weeknight dinner solution; they're also ideal for gatherings, potlucks, and family celebrations. The vibrant flavors and comforting textures make them a crowd-pleaser, ensuring that everyone will leave the table satisfied. Plus, you can easily scale the recipe up or down, depending on your needs.

Whether you're hosting a casual get-together or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these enchiladas fit the bill. Their versatility means you can serve them with a variety of sides, from Mexican rice to a fresh garden salad, creating a complete meal that looks as good as it tastes.

Customizable to Your Taste

One of the greatest things about these chicken enchiladas is their adaptability. Feel free to swap out the shredded chicken for ground beef, turkey, or even beans for a vegetarian option. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for an extra kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor.

Additionally, customize the level of heat by choosing a spicier enchilada sauce or adding diced jalapeños to the filling. This recipe is your canvas, allowing you to create a dish that reflects your personal taste preferences while still being budget-friendly.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! These enchiladas store beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply cover the baking dish with foil or transfer them to an airtight container to keep them fresh. When you're ready to enjoy them again, just reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the enchiladas before baking. Just prepare and assemble them, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you're craving a quick meal, simply bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Ingredients

For the Enchiladas

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

For Topping

Additional cheese for sprinkling
Sour cream (optional)
Chopped cilantro (optional)

Make sure to prepare your ingredients ahead of time for a smoother cooking experience!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken, 1 cup of cheese, diced onion, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Assemble the Enchiladas

Place a portion of the chicken mixture in each tortilla, roll them up, and place them seam-side down in a greased baking dish.

Add Sauce and Bake

Pour the enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, sprinkle with additional cheese, and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly.

Serve

Top with sour cream and chopped cilantro if desired, and enjoy your delicious meal!

Let the enchiladas sit for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Tips for Success

To ensure your enchiladas are perfectly rolled and filled, warm the tortillas slightly before assembly. This makes them more pliable and reduces the chance of tearing. You can do this by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving them for about 30 seconds.

Always taste your filling before rolling! Adjust the seasoning as needed to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor. If you prefer a creamier enchilada, consider mixing a bit of sour cream into your filling for added richness.

Pairing Suggestions

These chicken enchiladas pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a classic touch, serve them with Spanish rice and refried beans. A simple avocado salad or corn salsa can add a refreshing contrast to the dish's richness.

For drinks, consider serving a light Mexican beer, a refreshing margarita, or even a non-alcoholic agua fresca to complement the flavors beautifully. The right pairings can elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds delicious flavor!

→ How can I make these enchiladas spicier?

Add chopped jalapeños or use a spicier enchilada sauce.

→ Can I freeze enchiladas for later?

Absolutely! Assemble the enchiladas and freeze them before baking. Just add extra cooking time when baking from frozen.

→ What sides pair well with chicken enchiladas?

Mexican rice, beans, or a fresh salad complement this dish wonderfully.