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A close-up shot showcasing delicious, cheesy Chicken Enchiladas, perfect for dinner.

Easy Chicken Enchiladas Meal Prep

These Easy Chicken Enchiladas are perfect for meal prepping a healthy and delicious lunch or dinner. Featuring a flavorful chicken and black bean filling wrapped in tortillas and smothered in enchilada sauce and cheese, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
  • 10-12 corn tortillas
  • 2 cups red enchilada sauce store-bought or homemade
  • 2 cups shredded cheese Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a blend

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Two forks
  • Chopping board
  • knife
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Oven
  • Microwave or dry skillet (optional, for warming tortillas)

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sear chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, until cooked through. Let cool slightly, then shred with two forks.
  2. Make the Filling: In the same skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more. Stir in black beans, diced tomatoes and green chilies, and corn. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in shredded chicken and cilantro.
  3. Assemble the Enchiladas: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Pour a thin layer of enchilada sauce into the bottom of the dish.
  4. Warm the Tortillas: Slightly warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave (wrapped in a damp paper towel) to make them more pliable. This prevents tearing.
  5. Fill and Roll: Dip each tortilla in the enchilada sauce, coating both sides. Place a generous amount of chicken filling in the center of each tortilla. Roll up tightly and place seam-down in the prepared baking dish.
  6. Top and Bake: Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the enchiladas. Sprinkle with shredded cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly, and the sauce is heated through.
  7. Serve: Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra cilantro, sour cream, or avocado, if desired.

Notes

To prevent soggy enchiladas, ensure the chicken filling is not too moist. Pre-cooking the filling and draining excess liquid helps. You can doctor up store-bought enchilada sauce with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and lime juice for a homemade taste. These enchiladas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.