High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas

If you’re looking for a dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table, you’ve come to the right place! These High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas are truly special. They combine cheesy goodness with zesty flavor while being packed with lean protein, making them a fantastic choice for both busy weeknights and family gatherings. Trust me, once you’ve tried these enchiladas, you’ll want to keep them in your regular meal rotation!

What I love most about this recipe is how it embraces the cozy vibes of comfort food without sacrificing your health goals. They are quick to prepare, offer great leftovers, and will leave your family asking for seconds. Let’s dig into why this recipe is a winner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: These enchiladas are sure to please everyone at the table, from kids to adults.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare them in advance and pop them in the oven when you’re ready for dinner.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices, creamy filling, and melted cheese creates a mouthwatering experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand or can easily find at your local grocery store. Each component plays an important role in creating that creamy and flavorful experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Filling

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 oz reduced-fat cream cheese
• 1 tbsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles

For Assembly

• 6 large whole wheat tortillas
• 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend

For Topping

• 1/3 cup light sour cream (for topping)
• Chopped cilantro (for garnish)

Other Essentials

• 1 cup low sodium chicken broth
• Nonstick cooking spray

Variations

One of the best things about these enchiladas is their flexibility! You can customize them to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are a few fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or even beans for a vegetarian version!
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some sautéed bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you like more heat, add fresh jalapeños or increase the chili powder.
• Cheese swap: Try different cheese blends like pepper jack or cheddar for varied flavors.

How to Make High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick spray. This step ensures that your enchiladas won’t stick and will bake evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Cook the chicken in a skillet over medium heat for about 6–7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Let it cool slightly before shredding it using two forks. Shredding adds texture and helps all those delicious flavors meld together.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, minced garlic, cream cheese, chili powder, and diced green chiles until creamy. This filling is rich and full of flavor—perfect for stuffing those tortillas!

Step 4: Assemble the Enchiladas

Take each tortilla and fill it with the chicken mixture. Roll them up tightly and place them seam-side down in your prepared baking dish. This step keeps everything neatly contained while baking.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, simmer the low sodium chicken broth and any remaining chili powder. Pour this sauce over your assembled enchiladas; it adds moisture and flavor during baking.

Step 6: Bake It Up!

Top with shredded cheese and cover with foil. Bake for 20–25 minutes, removing the foil during the last 5 minutes to get those edges nice and crispy. Your kitchen will smell amazing!

Step 7: Serve It Up

Finish off your High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas with dollops of light sour cream and chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish!

Pro Tips for Making High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas

Making enchiladas doesn’t have to be complicated—just a few helpful tips can elevate your dish!

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker option, consider using shredded rotisserie chicken. This saves time and ensures your enchiladas are flavorful without the extra cooking time.

• Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder based on your preference. Adding more will give it an extra kick, while reducing it will keep it mild for those who prefer less heat.

• Experiment with Cheese Alternatives: If you want to cut down on fat, try using a low-fat cheese blend or even a dairy-free cheese option that melts well. This way, you can enjoy the creaminess without compromising your dietary goals.

• Pre-cook Tortillas: Lightly warming your tortillas in a skillet before filling them makes them more pliable. This prevents cracking and makes assembly much easier!

• Make Ahead: These enchiladas are perfect for meal prep! You can assemble them ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just bake them when you’re ready for a delicious dinner.

How to Serve High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas

Serving up these enchiladas is all about presentation and pairing them with complementary flavors! Here are some ideas to make your meal even more delightful.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: A sprinkle of fresh green onions adds color and a mild onion flavor that balances out the richness of the dish.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices or guacamole provide a refreshing contrast to the spicy enchiladas, enhancing both flavor and texture.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of light sour cream not only adds creaminess but also helps tone down the spice, making every bite enjoyable.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This vibrant salad features corn, lime, cilantro, and spices. It’s sweet, tangy, and complements the savory flavors of enchiladas beautifully.
• Black Bean Salad: Packed with protein and fiber, a black bean salad with tomatoes, corn, and cumin is not only nutritious but also offers a hearty side that pairs perfectly with your enchiladas.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lime juice and fresh cilantro provides a zesty side that’s ideal for soaking up any extra sauce from the enchiladas.
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized brings color and nutrition to your plate while balancing out the richness of the creamy enchiladas.

Enjoy crafting these High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas into a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table!

Make Ahead and Storage

These High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas are perfect for meal prep! You can make them in advance, allowing for easy weeknight dinners or satisfying lunches throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the enchiladas to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the enchiladas cool completely.
• Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Label with the date for reference!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen enchiladas in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the enchiladas in a baking dish, covering with foil.
• Bake for about 25 minutes or until heated through. For extra crispiness, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes.

FAQs

Have questions about these tasty enchiladas? We’ve got you covered!

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken in High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute shredded turkey or even plant-based proteins like lentils or black beans for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on your protein choice.

How can I make High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas spicier?

For those who enjoy a kick, consider adding extra chili powder, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to your filling. Experimenting is part of the fun!

What sides pair well with High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas?

These enchiladas go wonderfully with a fresh salad, guacamole, or some simple Mexican rice. You could also serve them with a side of sautéed veggies for added nutrition.

Can I make High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas without cream cheese?

Yes! If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese. Both options will still maintain that creamy texture while boosting protein content.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas as much as I do! They’re not just delicious; they’re also a fantastic way to stay on track with your fitness goals while indulging in comfort food. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for yourself or a gathering with friends, these enchiladas are sure to impress. Happy cooking!