Sizzling Skillet Creamy Chipotle Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

Creamy chipotle chicken enchiladas spark excitement in my kitchen whenever I’m craving something bold and comforting.

Smoky peppers blend perfectly with tender shredded chicken, creating a mouthwatering fusion of flavors.

My grandmother’s Mexican roots inspired this recipe, teaching me how traditional ingredients can become something extraordinary.

Spices dance across each bite, promising a culinary adventure that feels both familiar and surprising.

Melted cheese blankets soft tortillas, while chipotle’s subtle heat builds a complex taste profile.

Weeknight dinners deserve something special, and these enchiladas deliver maximum satisfaction with minimal effort.

Come cook with me and discover how simple ingredients can create an unforgettable meal.

Creamy Chipotle Chicken Enchiladas Made in One Skillet

• Simplify Dinner Prep: Create a delicious meal in one skillet, reducing dishes and cooking time while delivering maximum flavor with minimal effort.
• Customize Your Comfort: Easily adapt the recipe by swapping chicken for other proteins or adjusting spice levels to suit family preferences and dietary needs.
• Transform Leftovers Magically: Convert extra chicken and pantry ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal that feels fresh and exciting, making weeknight cooking a breeze.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor Explosion: Combine smoky chipotle, creamy sauce, and melted cheese to craft an irresistible dish that will have everyone asking for seconds and praising your culinary skills.

Ingredients to Gather for Creamy Chipotle Chicken Enchiladas

• Chicken: A versatile protein that absorbs the rich, smoky flavors of the chipotle sauce.

• Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the overall dish.
• Paprika, Garlic Powder, Salt: Provide a classic seasoning base that complements the chicken.
• Chipotle, Green Chilies: Deliver a spicy and slightly smoky kick to the enchiladas.

• Enchilada Sauce: Creates the foundational flavor profile of the dish.
• Water: Helps to thin and distribute the sauce evenly.
• Cream, Greek Yogurt: Adds richness and creates a creamy, smooth texture.
• Cilantro: Brings a fresh, herbal note to balance the spicy and creamy elements.

• Tortillas: Serve as the vessel for the chicken and sauce.
• Cheese: Provides a melty, gooey topping that adds richness.

• Lime Juice, Avocado, Extra Greek Yogurt, Fresh Cilantro: Offer additional freshness and customize the final presentation.

Stepwise Instructions for Creamy Chipotle Chicken Enchiladas

Step 1: Ignite the Oven

Crank up your oven to a toasty 400F, preparing it for the delicious magic about to unfold.

Step 2: Sizzle the Protein Base

• Chicken
• Onion
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Salt

Combine these ingredients, creating a flavor-packed foundation for your enchiladas.

Step 3: Introduce Spicy Companions

• Chipotle peppers
• Diced green chilies

Pour in enchilada sauce and a splash of water, bringing everything to a lively boil.

Step 4: Simmer and Soften

Reduce the heat to a gentle medium-low.

Cover the skillet and let the chicken cook thoroughly for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to mingle and dance.

Step 5: Transform the Protein

Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the sauce.

• Cream
• Yogurt

Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce thickens beautifully. Sprinkle fresh cilantro for a burst of brightness.

Step 6: Create the Enchilada Layer

Carefully arrange tortillas over the saucy chicken mixture. Generously sprinkle cheese on top, creating a golden, melty blanket.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the skillet into the preheated oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes until the cheese transforms into a bubbly, irresistible golden crown.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

• Lime juice
• Avocado slices
• Greek yogurt
• Chopped cilantro

Enjoy this fiesta of flavors straight from the skillet!

Tips That Make Creamy Chipotle Chicken Enchiladas Shine

• Select boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for tender, juicy meat that absorbs flavors perfectly.
• Modify chipotle pepper amount to control heat intensity, making the dish milder or spicier based on personal preference.
• Swap cream and yogurt with coconut milk or cashew cream for a lactose-free version that maintains creamy texture.
• Shred chicken in advance and store in the refrigerator to reduce cooking time when assembling enchiladas.
• Prepare entire dish, cool completely, and freeze for up to 3 months – perfect for make-ahead meals and busy weeknights.

Flavorful Variations to Change Up Your Enchiladas

• Seafood Fiesta: Replace chicken with shrimp or white fish for a coastal-inspired version. Mix in bell peppers and use Mexican blend cheese for extra flavor.
• Vegetarian Verde: Swap chicken with black beans, roasted corn, and diced zucchini. Add spinach for extra nutrients and use plant-based cheese alternative.
• Spicy Green Chile: Increase green chiles and add jalapeños for a hotter profile. Include pepper jack cheese and extra chipotle powder for bold heat lovers.
• Southwest Beef Remix: Substitute chicken with ground beef or shredded beef. Mix in cumin and chili powder for a robust southwestern-style enchilada experience.

Pairing Suggestions to Complete the Meal Experience

• Pair Zesty Mexican Lager: Choose a crisp, light Mexican beer like Corona or Modelo Especial to cut through the creamy, spicy enchiladas and refresh your palate.
• Complement with Fresh Citrus Margarita: Mix tequila, fresh lime juice, and a touch of agave for a bright, tangy cocktail that balances the dish's rich, smoky flavors.
• Serve with Cool Avocado Salsa: Chop fresh avocados, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice to create a cooling side that adds brightness and texture to the creamy enchiladas.
• Enhance with Southwestern Slaw: Toss shredded cabbage, carrots, and jalapeños with lime vinaigrette for a crunchy, zesty side that contrasts the enchiladas' creamy consistency.

Storing Tips to Keep Enchiladas Delicious

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool the enchiladas completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Wrap individual portions or the entire dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Place a label with the date for easy tracking.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Preheat oven to 350F. Cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Remove foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp the cheese.

FAQs

• Is chipotle very spicy?

Chipotle adds a smoky, medium heat level that’s flavorful without being overwhelming. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce the amount or use mild green chilies.

• Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Shredded beef, pork, or even turkey work great as alternatives to chicken in this enchilada recipe.

• Do I need a special type of skillet?

An oven-safe skillet is crucial for this recipe. Cast iron or a heavy-bottomed stainless steel skillet works best to go from stovetop to oven seamlessly.

• How can I make this dish healthier?

Use Greek yogurt instead of cream, choose low-fat cheese, and add extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to boost nutrition.

Skillet Creamy Chipotle Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

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4.8 from 35 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty skillet creamy chipotle chicken enchiladas bring Mexican comfort straight to dinner tables with rich, smoky flavors. Cheese-covered and packed with zesty spices, these enchiladas promise a delicious journey you’ll savor until the last delightful bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Proteins:

• 1 lb (454 g) boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 6 corn or flour tortillas
• 1½ cups (340 g) shredded Mexican cheese

Spices and Seasonings:

• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2–3 tablespoons chopped chipotle in adobo

Vegetables and Sauce:

• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 1 can (12 ounces/340 g) red enchilada sauce
• 1 can (4 ounces/113 g) diced green chilies
• 1 cup (240 ml) cream
• ½ cup (30 g) cilantro, chopped

Serving Options:

• Limes
• Avocado
• Yogurt

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Instructions

1. Heat oven to 400F, preparing a skillet for a vibrant Mexican-inspired dish.
2. Combine raw chicken, diced onions, paprika, garlic powder, and salt in a large oven-safe skillet.
3. Introduce chipotle peppers and green chilies into the skillet, then pour enchilada sauce and water to create a rich cooking liquid.
4. Bring mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, covering and simmering for 10-15 minutes until chicken is thoroughly cooked.
5. Using two forks, carefully shred chicken directly within the sauce, creating tender, flavorful pieces.
6. Stir in cream and yogurt, allowing the sauce to thicken and develop a luxurious consistency over 5 minutes.
7. Sprinkle fresh cilantro into the mixture, infusing aromatic herbs throughout the chicken.
8. Layer soft tortillas evenly across the skillet, completely covering the chicken mixture.
9. Generously distribute cheese over the tortillas, ensuring complete coverage.
10. Transfer skillet to preheated oven, baking for 10-15 minutes until cheese melts and turns golden and bubbly.
11. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh lime juice, sliced avocado, additional yogurt, and cilantro leaves before serving.

Notes

• Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for consistent, tender meat that absorbs flavors beautifully.
• Adjust chipotle pepper quantity based on heat tolerance, starting with less and gradually increasing for personalized spice level.
• Replace dairy with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version that maintains rich, creamy texture.
• Swap corn tortillas with low-carb alternatives like cauliflower tortillas for a keto-friendly adaptation that keeps the enchilada essence intact.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 450 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 750 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 35 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg