Chicken Enchiladas

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 55 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1 can (4 oz) chopped green chilies
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 8-10 flour tortillas
• 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, chopped onion, chopped green chilies, sour cream, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Warm the flour tortillas in the microwave for a few seconds or wrap them in foil and heat in the oven for a few minutes to make them pliable.
4. Spoon the chicken mixture into the center of each tortilla and roll it up tightly. Place the rolled enchiladas seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
5. Pour the red enchilada sauce over the enchiladas, making sure they are well coated.
6. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the enchiladas.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
10. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve the delicious Chicken Enchiladas with your favorite sides like guacamole, salsa, and sour cream.
11. Enjoy the authentic flavors of this classic Mexican dish that the whole family will love!

History:

Enchiladas, in general, have a long history in Mexican cuisine, dating back to the ancient Aztec civilization.

The term "enchilada" comes from the Spanish word "enchilar," meaning "to season with chili."

Traditional enchiladas were made by wrapping corn tortillas around small fish, beans, or other fillings and then covering them with a chili pepper sauce.

Over time, the dish evolved, and various regional and international adaptations, like the Chicken Enchiladas, became popular worldwide.

Interesting Facts:

- Enchiladas are a versatile dish, and the fillings can include chicken, beef, cheese, vegetables, and more.

- The red enchilada sauce is typically made with dried red chili peppers, tomatoes, garlic, and other spices.

- The use of shredded chicken and melted cheese makes Chicken Enchiladas a comforting and satisfying meal.

- In Mexico, enchiladas are often served with refried beans, rice, and a side salad for a complete meal.

Note: You can customize the level of spiciness by using mild or spicy enchilada sauce and adjusting the amount of chili powder in the filling.