Enchiladas Verdes
From the moment I first tasted Enchiladas Verdes at a small Mexican restaurant around the corner from my childhood home, I was hooked. The vibrant green sauce, made from fresh tomatillos and cilantro, danced on my taste buds, igniting a love for this comforting dish that has never faded. I remember my mom attempting her own version at home, and while it never quite matched the restaurant’s, the joy and laughter we shared in the kitchen made it special. Enchiladas Verdes became a staple in our family gatherings, where we would compete to see who could roll the perfect tortilla. It’s not just food; it’s a memory, a story, a tradition that binds us together. Now, as I prepare these enchiladas for my own family, I find myself reminiscing about those cherished moments while looking forward to creating new ones.
Recipe Snapshot
25 mins
10 mins
15 mins
Easy
350 kcal
25 g
Keto, Gluten-Free
15 g
Grater, Chef’s Knife, Skillet, Frying Pan, Saucepan
The Charm of This Enchiladas Verdes
1. A Flavor Explosion
The combination of green salsa, fresh cilantro, and a sprinkle of semi-hard cheese creates a harmony of flavors that is both refreshing and satisfying. Each bite is a celebration of vibrant ingredients that dance together perfectly.
2. Comfort Food Redefined
There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of warm Enchiladas Verdes. The soft tortillas, filled with tender chicken and smothered in tangy salsa, make for a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s the kind of dish that brings you back to simpler days.
3. Customizable Delights
Whether you prefer them spicy or mild, Enchiladas Verdes can be adapted to fit your taste. You can add your favorite vegetables, switch up the cheese, or even try different proteins. The possibilities are endless!
4. A Family Affair
Rolling enchiladas can be a fun activity for the whole family. Get everyone involved! It’s a wonderful way to bond, share stories, and create delicious memories while enjoying a tasty meal together.
5. Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive celebration, Enchiladas Verdes fit right in. They’re great for serving a crowd, and everyone loves digging in.
6. Healthier Options
With fresh ingredients and the ability to control what goes into your enchiladas, you can make them healthier without sacrificing flavor. Using whole grain tortillas and plenty of veggies is a great way to keep your meal nutritious.
Enchiladas Verdes Shopping List
The ingredients for Enchiladas Verdes work in harmony to create a truly memorable dish. Each component plays a crucial role, ensuring that every bite is flavorful and satisfying. The star of the show, the green salsa, elevates the dish with its vibrant taste, while the chicken provides protein and substance. Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness, and the cheese brings a rich, creamy element that ties it all together.
- 5 oz cooked chicken, shredded – A tender and savory filling that adds heartiness to each enchilada.
- 4 corn tortillas – The vessel for our flavors, providing a soft and slightly chewy bite.
- 1¼ cups green salsa / salsa verde – The bright and zesty sauce that envelops the enchiladas in flavor.
- ¼ cup grated semi-hard cheese – Adds a creamy texture and rich flavor that melts beautifully.
- 1 tbsp crema / sour cream – A cooling element that balances out the heat of the salsa.
- Slice red onion or pickled red onion – A crunchy component that adds bite and flavor.
- Fresh cilantro – For garnish, adding freshness and color.
Recipe Steps for Enchiladas Verdes
Making Enchiladas Verdes is a delightful process that connects you with the flavors of Mexico. You’ll love how simple it is to create something so delicious and comforting. Let’s dive into the steps that will turn your kitchen into a taco fiesta!
- Start by heating 1 tsp oil in a skillet over medium heat. As the oil warms, you’ll notice it starts to shimmer, preparing for the next step. Now, add the shredded chicken, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well and sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes. Your kitchen will start to fill with mouthwatering aromas!
- While your chicken is cooking, gently warm the corn tortillas. You can microwave them for about 20 seconds, or heat them on a pan until they are soft and pliable. This step is crucial because it makes rolling them so much easier!
- Now, it’s time to assemble your enchiladas. Take a warmed tortilla and add a generous spoonful of the sautéed chicken. Roll it up tightly and place seam-side down in your skillet. Repeat this process with all the tortillas, filling them with that delicious chicken.
- In the same skillet, heat 1 tbsp oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, gently place the rolled enchiladas seam-side down. Let them brown for about 2 to 3 minutes until they develop a lovely golden crust. This step adds an incredible texture to your enchiladas!
- Next, pour the green salsa over the enchiladas, covering them generously. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 7 minutes. The enchiladas will soak in all that flavor, becoming irresistibly tasty.
- Once the enchiladas are ready, it’s time to plate them. Carefully spoon extra green salsa on top, and finish with a sprinkle of cheese, a dollop of crema, and a handful of fresh cilantro. Serve hot, and watch everyone’s faces light up as they dig in!
Things Worth Knowing
- Don’t skip the skillet: Browning your enchiladas before adding the salsa creates a delicious texture that keeps them from getting soggy.
- Warm tortillas: Ensure your tortillas are warmed just enough to be pliable. If they’re too hot, they may rip when you roll them.
- Zero waste: Using leftover chicken is a fantastic way to make this dish quicker and reduce waste.
- Always finish with crema: It cools the heat from the salsa and adds a creamy element that balances the dish perfectly.
Change It Up
If you’re feeling adventurous, Enchiladas Verdes can be easily customized to fit your personal taste. Here are some ideas to switch things up and make the recipe uniquely yours:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: These enchiladas freeze beautifully. Just wrap tightly in foil and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
- Variations: Swap out the chicken for shredded vegetables or beans for a delightful vegetarian option.
- Serving suggestions: Pair with a side of black beans or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the chicken mixture for an extra kick!
- Cheese choices: Experiment with different cheeses, like mozzarella or queso fresco, to change the flavor profile.
What to Serve With Enchiladas Verdes
When it comes to serving Enchiladas Verdes, you have plenty of delicious options to complement the meal. Here are some ideas:
- Mexican Rice: A side of fluffy Mexican rice pairs perfectly with the flavorful enchiladas, soaking up the salsa.
- Refried Beans: Creamy, refried beans add richness and protein, making your meal heartier and satisfying.
- Guacamole: A dollop of fresh guacamole enhances the flavor profile and adds a creamy texture.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with lime vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich enchiladas.
- Sour Cream: Offer additional crema or sour cream on the side for those who like a cooler topping.
- Occasions: Enchiladas Verdes are perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even festive occasions like Cinco de Mayo.
FAQ
Conclusion
In conclusion, Enchiladas Verdes are a delightful dish that brings together flavors and memories in a single bite. The combination of vibrant green salsa and tender fillings creates an irresistible meal that is perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try making these enchiladas at home; they are not only delicious but also a fun way to gather family and friends in the kitchen. You’ll find that the joy of cooking and sharing this dish will leave you with lasting memories!
Enchiladas Verdes
Equipment
- Grater
- Chef's Knife
- Skillet
- Frying Pan
- Saucepan
Ingredients
- 5 oz cooked chicken shredded
- 4 corn tortillas
- 1.25 cups green salsa salsa verde
- 0.25 cup grated semi-hard cheese
- 1 tbsp crema sour cream
- 1 sliced red onion or pickled red onion
- 1 fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Heat 1 tsp oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Remove from heat.
- Warm tortillas until soft and pliable. Microwave for 20 seconds or heat them on a pan.
- Add a spoonful of chicken to each tortilla and roll them tightly.
- In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp oil. Place enchiladas seam-side down and brown on both sides. Leave them in the skillet.
- Pour green salsa over enchiladas. Cover, reduce heat, and let simmer for 7 minutes.
- Plate the enchiladas, spoon extra salsa on top, and finish with cheese, crema, and your favorite garnishes. Serve hot.
Notes
- Tip 1: Warm your tortillas just until soft—too hot and they’ll rip when you roll. A damp paper towel in the microwave? Lifesaver.
- Tip 2: Don’t skip the skillet. That golden crust? Total game-changer. It adds texture and keeps them from getting soggy.
- Tip 3: Got leftover chicken from another night? Perfect excuse to make enchiladas. Zero waste, full flavor.
- Tip 4: Always finish with crema. It cools down the heat and makes everything feel dreamy.
