Cream cheese chicken enchiladas: 7 reasons to crave them

Name: Cream cheese chicken enchiladas: 7 reasons to crave them
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheese; 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce; 8 flour tortillas; 1/2 cup diced onions; 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp cumin; 1/2 tsp salt

September 14, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these cream cheese chicken enchiladas! They’re like a warm hug on a plate, combining the comforting flavors of traditional enchiladas with an irresistible creamy twist. I remember the first time I made these; the rich cream cheese melts into the chicken filling, creating a luscious texture that just makes each bite feel so indulgent. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try these enchiladas, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make them sooner!

cream cheese chicken enchiladas - detail 1

Ingredients for Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas

2 cups cooked shredded chicken
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheese (your choice, but I love a good cheddar or Monterey Jack!)
1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
8 flour tortillas (the bigger, the better for all that filling!)
1/2 cup diced onions
1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (I like a mix of colors for a pop of vibrancy)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp cumin (this adds such a warm, earthy flavor)
1/2 tsp salt

How to Prepare Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas

Alright, let’s get cooking! Making these cream cheese chicken enchiladas is a breeze, and I promise you’ll love how simple it is. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a deliciously creamy meal on the table in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important to make sure your enchiladas get that lovely, bubbly topping!
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, half of the shredded cheese, diced onions, chopped bell peppers, garlic powder, cumin, and salt. Mix everything together until well combined. It’s okay if the cream cheese is a bit chunky; it’ll melt beautifully in the oven!
Now, spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking—trust me, you don’t want your beautiful enchiladas to cling to the dish!
Take a flour tortilla and fill it generously with the chicken mixture, then roll it up tightly. Place it seam side down in the baking dish. Repeat this for all the tortillas, snuggling them in nicely.
Once all the tortillas are in the dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top, making sure to cover them well. Sprinkle the rest of the shredded cheese on top for that melty goodness!
Finally, pop them in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden. Ooh, I can just smell them now!

And there you go! Just wait a few minutes before digging in so you don’t burn your mouth. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for those busy weeknights!
Creamy, rich flavor that transforms traditional enchiladas into something special.
Satisfying and filling, making it a great choice for family dinners.
All the ingredients come together beautifully, creating a harmonious dish.
Customizable—add your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch!
Leftovers are just as delicious, making for easy meals throughout the week.
Kid-friendly and sure to become a family favorite!

Tips for Success

Before you dive into making these delicious cream cheese chicken enchiladas, here are some of my favorite tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick and easy meal, grab a rotisserie chicken from the store. It saves time and adds incredible flavor!
Experiment with Cheese: While I love cheddar and Monterey Jack, feel free to mix in some pepper jack for a kick or even cream cheese with herbs for an extra creamy filling.
Don’t Skip the Sauce: Spreading a little enchilada sauce on the bottom of the dish prevents sticking and adds flavor. Plus, who doesn’t love a saucy base?
Customize Your Veggies: If you have other veggies on hand, like zucchini or spinach, toss them in! It’s a great way to add nutrition and color.
Adjust the Spice: If you like it spicy, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the filling for an extra kick!
Let Them Rest: Once they come out of the oven, let your enchiladas sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps them hold their shape and makes them easier to serve.
Top It Off: Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or avocado. It adds a lovely freshness that balances the creamy filling!

With these tips, you’ll be on your way to creating the best cream cheese chicken enchiladas ever! Happy cooking!

Variations of Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas

If you’re anything like me, you love experimenting in the kitchen! These cream cheese chicken enchiladas are a fantastic base for all sorts of delicious variations. Here are a few ideas to switch things up and keep your taste buds dancing:

Swap the Protein: Instead of chicken, try using shredded beef or pulled pork for a hearty twist. You can even go vegetarian with black beans or sautéed mushrooms for a meaty texture!
Change Up the Veggies: Feel free to toss in your favorite vegetables! Spinach, zucchini, or corn would add great flavor and nutrients. You could even sneak in some roasted sweet potatoes for a sweet and savory combo.
Spice It Up: Add a kick by incorporating diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder into the filling. For those who love heat, a few drops of hot sauce in the enchilada sauce can do wonders!
Experiment with Sauces: While enchilada sauce is classic, you can also use a creamy green salsa or even a homemade tomato sauce for a different flavor profile. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
Herbed Cream Cheese: Try using flavored cream cheese, like garlic and herb, for an extra layer of taste. It’ll make a simple filling even more exciting!
Cheesy Variations: Mix in different types of cheese, like feta or goat cheese, for a tangy surprise. Or, go wild with a blend of several cheeses for ultimate cheesiness!

With these variations, you can keep your cream cheese chicken enchiladas fresh and exciting every time! Let your creativity shine and have fun with it!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made a big batch of these delicious cream cheese chicken enchiladas, and now you’re wondering how to store the leftovers? No worries, I’ve got you covered! First things first, let them cool down a bit before storing. This helps prevent condensation in the container, which can make them soggy.

Transfer any leftover enchiladas to an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them for a longer period, you can freeze them! Just wrap the enchiladas tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Now, when you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheating is key to keeping that creamy goodness intact. For refrigerated enchiladas, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the enchiladas in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes. This will keep them nice and moist. If they seem a little dry, drizzle a bit of enchilada sauce or water over the top before covering. Trust me, this little trick works wonders!

If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat them in the microwave! Just place one or two on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Just be careful not to overdo it, or you might end up with a rubbery texture!

With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your cream cheese chicken enchiladas just as much the next day as you did fresh out of the oven. Enjoy every bite!

Nutritional Information

Alright, let’s talk about the nutritional values for these yummy cream cheese chicken enchiladas! Keep in mind that these numbers are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying:

Serving Size: 1 enchilada
Calories: 350
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 20g

These enchiladas are not just a treat for your taste buds but also pack a decent amount of protein and flavor. Perfect for a filling meal that keeps you satisfied!

FAQ About Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While I love cream cheese for its smooth texture, you can mix in other cheeses like ricotta or even a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick. Just keep in mind that it might change the flavor profile a bit!

What can I substitute for the chicken?
If you’re looking for a meat-free option, shredded jackfruit or black beans work great! You could also use ground turkey or beef if that’s more your style. The key is to keep that creamy filling!

Can I prepare these enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the enchiladas, cover them with the sauce, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat!

How do I make these enchiladas spicier?
If you like heat, feel free to add diced jalapeños or some cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture. You could also use a spicier enchilada sauce to crank up the flavor!

Can I freeze the enchiladas?
Definitely! Just assemble them, cover tightly, and freeze before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as usual. They’ll taste just as delicious!

What should I serve with cream cheese chicken enchiladas?
I recommend pairing them with a fresh salad, some Mexican rice, or even refried beans. A dollop of sour cream and some guacamole on the side never hurt either!

Why are my enchiladas soggy?
If your enchiladas are soggy, it might be due to too much sauce or overfilling the tortillas. Make sure to spread just enough sauce on the bottom and don’t overstuff them to keep them nice and firm!

For a different take on enchiladas, try this creamy chicken enchilada soup!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.