If you’re in the mood for a comforting, flavorful meal that combines rich, creamy goodness with bold spices, Cream Cheese Enchiladas are the perfect dish. These enchiladas offer a unique twist on the traditional Mexican favorite, blending the warmth of seasoned chicken or beef, the indulgence of cream cheese, and the zest of enchilada sauce, all wrapped up in soft tortillas. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting a gathering, this dish is sure to impress.
The cream cheese in this recipe is the key to creating a smooth, rich filling that complements the spiced chicken and tangy enchilada sauce. The result? A dish that’s both hearty and comforting, yet light enough to make you want seconds. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious masterpiece.
Why You’ll Love Cream Cheese Enchiladas
- Rich and creamy with a delightful tang
- Customizable to suit your taste—add veggies, beef, or chicken
- A crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make
- Perfect balance of spice and richness
- Great for meal prep or feeding a hungry crowd
These enchiladas are the ultimate comfort food that delivers flavor in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a few simple, yet flavor-packed ingredients that come together in the most magical way.
For the Enchiladas:
- 10–12 flour tortillas (soft, medium-sized)
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (or beef, if preferred)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce (green or red, based on preference)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sliced jalapeños for heat
- Sour cream or guacamole for extra creaminess
How to Make Cream Cheese Enchiladas
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is fully incorporated and the mixture is creamy and smooth. If the cream cheese is too firm, you can microwave it for 20–30 seconds to soften it further.
Step 2: Prepare the Tortillas
Warm the flour tortillas in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to make them more pliable. This will prevent them from cracking when rolling. You can also heat them individually on a skillet if you prefer a slightly crispier texture.
Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Then, spoon about 2 tablespoons of the cream cheese chicken mixture onto each tortilla. Roll it up tightly and place it seam-side down in the baking dish.
Once all the tortillas are in the dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top, making sure each enchilada is coated. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese blend) evenly over the top.
Step 4: Bake the Enchiladas
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the enchiladas are baked, remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, and sliced jalapeños for extra flavor and a pop of color.
Serving Suggestions
These creamy enchiladas pair perfectly with a variety of side dishes, creating a complete meal that everyone will love:
- Mexican rice or Spanish rice
- Refried beans or black beans for added protein
- Crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette
- Corn on the cob or grilled veggies for a fresh touch
- Chips and salsa on the side for that classic Mexican dining experience
Tips for the Best Cream Cheese Enchiladas
- Use soft tortillas: Flour tortillas are the best option for this recipe as they are soft and pliable, perfect for rolling without cracking.
- Cook your chicken in advance: You can easily use leftover rotisserie chicken or cook chicken breasts and shred them for this recipe.
- Adjust the spice level: If you like it spicy, add some jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the filling or sauce.
- Make-ahead option: You can assemble the enchiladas in advance, cover them, and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve!
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Version: Use black beans, corn, and bell peppers instead of meat for a hearty, vegetarian filling.
- Beef Enchiladas: Substitute the chicken with ground beef or shredded beef for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese Lovers: Add extra layers of cheese inside the tortillas for a more indulgent version.
- Green Enchiladas: Use green enchilada sauce for a tangier, more zesty flavor profile.
Storage and Leftovers
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or in the microwave for a quicker option.
- Freezing: You can freeze the assembled but unbaked enchiladas for up to 2 months. Just bake them from frozen, adding an extra 10–15 minutes to the baking time.
A Comforting Meal You’ll Make Again and Again
Cream Cheese Enchiladas are the perfect balance of comfort and flavor, with a creamy filling that takes traditional enchiladas to the next level. They’re easy to make, incredibly versatile, and sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, these enchiladas will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation.
For a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish, you can’t go wrong with this heavenly combination of enchilada sauce, cream cheese, and tender chicken. Ready to give them a try? Your taste buds are in for a treat!
