Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
🌶️ Homemade Spicy Chicken Enchiladas – Easy, Cheesy, and Full of Flavor
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Make the best spicy chicken enchiladas at home with this easy recipe! Juicy chicken, bold spices, and melted cheese baked to perfection — a must-try Mexican favorite.
Keywords: spicy chicken enchiladas, homemade enchiladas, easy Mexican dinner, chicken enchilada recipe, cheesy enchiladas
🛒 Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small jalapeño, finely diced (optional for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup canned diced tomatoes (or salsa)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
For the Enchilada Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt to taste
For Assembly:
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (for topping)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream or avocado slices (optional, for serving)
🔥 Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Make the filling:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion and cook 2–3 minutes until soft.
- Stir in garlic, jalapeño, chili powder, cumin, and paprika; cook 1–2 minutes.
- Add shredded chicken and diced tomatoes; mix well.
- Stir in ½ cup cheese and remove from heat.
- Make the sauce:
- Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour for 30 seconds.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth, tomato paste, and seasonings.
- Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
- Assemble the enchiladas:
- Spread ¼ cup of sauce on the baking dish bottom.
- Spoon filling into each tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam-side down.
- Pour remaining sauce on top and sprinkle with cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Garnish with cilantro and serve warm with sour cream or avocado.
🍽️ Serving Tips
- Pair with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh lime salad.
- Adjust spice by adding or removing jalapeños or chili powder.
🧠 Chef’s Tip
For a smoky twist, use chipotle peppers in adobo sauce instead of jalapeños for deeper, richer heat.