Description
Creamy Mexican Chicken Enchiladas bring zesty comfort straight from southern kitchens, blending rich cheese sauce with tender chicken. Spicy, melted layers promise a delightful culinary journey you’ll savor with each delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Cheese Sauce Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (do not use the bags!)
Instructions
- Craft a robust spice blend by combining chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, crushed red pepper flakes, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small mixing container. Thoroughly massage the seasoning mixture across the entire surface of chicken breasts, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
- Preheat a grill pan to medium-high heat, creating an ideal searing environment around 400°F. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, monitoring internal temperature until it reaches 165°F. Verify doneness using a meat thermometer by checking the thickest portion. Remove chicken and allow it to rest momentarily.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter completely. Incorporate flour and cook for approximately one minute until mixture becomes bubbly. Gradually introduce milk while continuously whisking to prevent luminal formation. Maintain constant stirring until sauce thickens, which typically requires 3-5 minutes.
- Once sauce reaches desired consistency, gradually incorporate shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted. Introduce paprika, cayenne, and a subtle salt seasoning. Taste and adjust flavor profile as needed, aiming for a smooth, mildly spicy cheese sauce with optimal pouring consistency.
- Slice chicken and generously drizzle the prepared cheese sauce overtop. Offer additional sauce on the side for those desiring extra cheesy indulgence.
Notes
- Combine all dry spices beforehand to ensure even distribution and maximum flavor penetration into the chicken.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee perfectly cooked chicken without drying out the meat, aiming for the ideal 165°F internal temperature.
- Whisk continuously when adding milk and cheese to prevent lumps and achieve a silky, creamy texture.
- Swap regular milk with almond or oat milk for a lactose-free version, and use gluten-free flour to make the recipe suitable for different dietary needs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 11 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg