Name: Easy Easiest Leftover Chicken Enchiladas That Wow Your Tastebuds
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2-3 cups Leftover Chicken (or substitute with leftover beef or pork); 1 can Diced Green Chiles (4 oz, opt for fire-roasted for extra zing); 1 cup Corn (canned or frozen, or replace with black beans); 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (halved); 1 large clove Garlic (minced); 10 Flour Tortillas (or corn tortillas for gluten-free option); 2 cups Mexican-Blend Shredded Cheese (divided); 1 batch Enchilada Sauce (or 15 oz can); 1/4 cup Cilantro (optional)

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I’ll never forget the moment I opened my fridge and was faced with a bounty of leftover chicken, just waiting for a delicious transformation. That’s when the idea for these Easiest Leftover Chicken Enchiladas struck me—a comforting dish that was quick to assemble but packed with flavor! With just a handful of ingredients, I could whip up a meal that would satisfy everyone at the table.

Imagine sinking your fork into layers of savory shredded chicken enveloped in gooey melted cheese, all topped with a zesty enchilada sauce. Each bite is a warm hug, reminding me that not all quick meals have to come from a drive-thru! Whether it’s a busy weeknight, a cozy family dinner, or a fun Friday night gathering, these enchiladas are versatile enough to shine on any occasion. Not only do they rescue those leftovers, but they also bring a sense of joy and comfort to the table. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that promises to become a weeknight staple!

Why are Easiest Leftover Chicken Enchiladas a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: This recipe can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect solution for busy weeknights.
Comforting Flavors: Each bite delivers a delightful mix of savory chicken, melty cheese, and zesty enchilada sauce, creating a warm and satisfying dish.
Customizable: Use your leftover chicken, beef, or pork, adapting it easily to suit your cravings or dietary needs.
Family Friendly: These enchiladas are sure to please everyone at the table, giving you a delicious way to enjoy leftovers.
Make Ahead: Prepare them in advance and bake when you’re ready, offering a time-saving win for your weeknight meals.
Enjoy these Easiest Leftover Chicken Enchiladas with a side of guacamole or your favorite toppings for a complete meal!

Easiest Leftover Chicken Enchiladas Ingredients

For the Filling

Leftover Chicken (2-3 cups) – Provides protein and acts as the main filling; feel free to substitute with leftover beef or pork as a tasty alternative.
Diced Green Chiles (1 can, 4 oz) – Adds a mild, smoky flavor; opt for fire-roasted varieties for an extra zing!
Corn (1 cup) – Contributes sweetness and texture; this can be canned, frozen, or replaced with black beans if needed.
Cherry Tomatoes (1 cup, halved) – Adds freshness and a burst of flavor; essential for the recipe, so don’t leave them out!
Garlic (1 large clove, minced) – Infuses the filling with aromatic depth and delight.

For Assembly

Flour Tortillas (10) – The perfect vessel for your delicious fillings; corn tortillas work well for a gluten-free option!
Mexican-Blend Shredded Cheese (2 cups, divided) – Offers creaminess and enhances flavor; any cheese blend can be used according to your preference.
Enchilada Sauce (1 batch or 15 oz can) – Binds all those scrumptious flavors together; choose homemade for a personal touch or store-bought for convenience.

For Garnishing

Cilantro (1/4 cup, optional) – Add this fresh herb for a burst of flavor and visual appeal; it’s a lovely finishing touch!

This vibrant mix creates the Easiest Leftover Chicken Enchiladas that will quickly become a favorite at your dinner table!

How to Make Easiest Leftover Chicken Enchiladas

Preheat: Set your oven to 375°F. If using homemade enchilada sauce, get it ready now to spread delicious flavor throughout the dish.
Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, diced green chiles, corn, 1 cup of shredded cheese, halved cherry tomatoes, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste, blending the flavors evenly.
Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly spray a 13×9-inch baking pan with nonstick spray, ensuring your enchiladas don’t stick while baking.
Assemble Enchiladas: Take a tortilla and spoon about ¼ cup of the chicken mixture onto its center. Roll it up tightly and place it seam-side down in the baking pan. Repeat for all tortillas.
Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour your enchilada sauce over the assembled tortillas and generously sprinkle the remaining cheese on top for that irresistible melty goodness.
Bake: Cover the pan with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until bubbling. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to allow the cheese to brown slightly.
Serve: Once baked to perfection, take your enchiladas out of the oven and serve them immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired for an extra layer of flavor.

Optional: Add a dollop of sour cream or a side of guacamole for a delightful touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Easiest Leftover Chicken Enchiladas?

Imagine creating a delightful meal that elevates your enchiladas to new heights, combining complimentary flavors and textures.

Guacamole: A creamy, rich dip that adds a fresh contrast, enhancing the savory flavors of your enchiladas.
Mexican Street Corn Salad: Sweet, juicy corn tossed with lime and cilantro will bring a refreshing brightness to your plate, making each bite a fiesta!
Refried Beans: Creamy and hearty, these beans add protein and richness while rounding out the meal perfectly.
Spanish Rice: The mildly seasoned rice serves as a fluffy base that works beautifully with the zesty enchiladas, soaking up their delicious sauce.
Fresh Pico de Gallo: A salsa of diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro provides a burst of color and freshness, adding vibrancy to your table.
Sour Cream: A dollop of this tangy treat adds a cooling effect that complements the spicy notes of the enchiladas and rounds out the dish.
Chips and Salsa: These crunchy companions create a perfect appetizer, offering a satisfying crunch that warms up your palate before diving into the main course.
Cilantro Lime Rice: The zesty kick from lime and fragrant cilantro makes this rice a bright addition, enhancing the overall Mexican flavor profile.

How to Store and Freeze Easiest Leftover Chicken Enchiladas

Fridge: Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for quick meals!

Freezer: Freeze baked enchiladas in a tightly sealed container for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap them well to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating: Reheat individual enchiladas in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes until warm. Enjoy the flavors of your easiest leftover chicken enchiladas again!

Make-Ahead: Prepare enchiladas and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking for a fuss-free dinner!

Easiest Leftover Chicken Enchiladas Variations

Customize your enchiladas to suit your taste buds and pantry staples with these delightful twists!

Beefy Swap: Replace leftover chicken with shredded beef for a heartier flavor that still packs a punch.
Pork Perfection: Use leftover pork instead of chicken for a savory twist that’ll delight any meat lover.
Veggie Delight: Incorporate sautéed bell peppers and onions for added nutrition and sweetness that complements the dish beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Exchange green chiles for diced jalapeños; this tweak elevates the heat level, perfect for spice enthusiasts.
Black Beans Boost: Add a cup of black beans in place of corn for a fiber-rich option that adds a nutty flavor.
Cheesy Goodness: Experiment with different cheese blends, like pepper jack or sharp cheddar, to amp up the flavor profile delightfully.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for an aromatic lift that brightens every bite, creating a fragrant experience.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute flour tortillas with corn tortillas to cater to gluten-sensitive diners, keeping all that delicious flavor intact!

Expert Tips for Easiest Leftover Chicken Enchiladas

Prep Ahead: Make the enchiladas in advance and store them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking for ultimate time savings.
Balance Ingredients: Avoid overloading your enchiladas with corn, as it can overpower the other flavors; aim for a well-balanced filling.
Mix Well: Ensure that you thoroughly combine the filling ingredients; this allows the flavors of the Easiest Leftover Chicken Enchiladas to distribute evenly throughout each bite.
Choose Tortilla Wisely: Opt for flour tortillas for a softer texture, or go with corn tortillas for a gluten-free option that still holds up well.
Spice it Up: For an extra kick, consider swapping the green chiles for jalapeños—this adds a delicious heat to the dish!

Make Ahead Options

These Easiest Leftover Chicken Enchiladas are perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the enchiladas and refrigerate them, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld nicely, enhancing the dish. If you prefer to prep even further ahead, feel free to freeze the unbaked enchiladas, stored in an airtight container, for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake from frozen or after a night in the fridge—just increase the baking time by an extra 10-15 minutes, until heated through. This way, you can savor homemade enchiladas without the hassle on a busy night!

Easiest Leftover Chicken Enchiladas Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Opt for chicken that’s been fully cooked and shredded for the best flavor and texture. Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonderfully, as its seasoning adds depth. If using plain cooked chicken, consider seasoning with spices to enhance the taste.

How should I store leftover enchiladas?
Easily! Store your leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps them delicious and ready for easy reheat meals. Just make sure they cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup!

Can I freeze Easiest Leftover Chicken Enchiladas?
Yes, you can! Simply freeze the baked enchiladas in a tightly sealed container for up to 3 months. For best results, wrap them in plastic wrap before placing them in the container to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight, and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes.

What can I do if my enchiladas are too dry?
Very! If your enchiladas come out dry, next time, consider adding a bit more enchilada sauce before baking. Additionally, cover them with foil during the first half of baking to retain moisture. If already baked, reheating with a splash of sauce can rejuvenate them perfectly.

Are these enchiladas suitable for kids or anyone with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! These Easiest Leftover Chicken Enchiladas are quite versatile. You can use gluten-free corn tortillas for a gluten-sensitive option or even swap out ingredients to cater to dietary needs, such as using black beans instead of corn for a vegetarian adaptation. Just ensure there are no allergens for your guests.

Is it okay to prepare the enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes, indeed! You can assemble the enchiladas, cover them tightly with foil, and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This way, all the flavors will meld beautifully together, making your dinner stress-free and delicious!