Chicken Avocado Enchiladas

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Introduction

Chicken Avocado Enchiladas are a mouthwatering twist on the classic enchilada, featuring tender chicken, creamy avocado, and a rich, flavorful enchilada sauce. This dish combines the vibrant flavors of Mexico with fresh ingredients that make it a perfect option for a hearty family meal or a festive gathering. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a weeknight meal, or craving something rich yet healthy, Chicken Avocado Enchiladas will never disappoint. The creamy avocados complement the savory chicken perfectly, making each bite as satisfying as the last.

Perfect for:

  • Family dinners
  • Mexican-themed parties
  • Weeknight meals
  • Healthy comfort food lovers
  • Special occasions like Ramadan (Halal-friendly)

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Avocado Enchiladas Recipe

Here’s why Chicken Avocado Enchiladas will quickly become one of your favorite dishes:

  • Creamy and Savory: The addition of creamy avocado makes these enchiladas rich and smooth, offering a wonderful contrast to the spiced chicken.
  • Flavorful Enchilada Sauce: The homemade enchilada sauce adds a robust, slightly tangy flavor that enhances the chicken and avocado, making each bite unforgettable.
  • Halal-Friendly: This recipe avoids pork, bacon, and alcohol, making it perfect for anyone following a Halal diet.
  • Simple & Customizable: With just a few basic ingredients and easy steps, this dish is perfect for a stress-free dinner. You can even add extras like cheese or veggies to make it your own.
  • Healthy Option: Avocados provide healthy fats and are rich in vitamins, making this dish both satisfying and nutritious.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 40 minutes
  • Servings: 6-8 enchiladas
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Carbs: 25g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients for Chicken Avocado Enchiladas

Here’s what you’ll need to make these tasty Chicken Avocado Enchiladas:

  • For the Enchiladas:
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 1 lb (450g) chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded
    • 2 ripe avocados, mashed
    • 8 small flour tortillas (or corn tortillas for a gluten-free option)
    • 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix, optional)
    • ½ cup chopped cilantro
    • 1 small onion, finely chopped
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
    • 1 teaspoon chili powder
    • 1 teaspoon paprika
    • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the Enchilada Sauce:
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
    • 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
    • 1 ½ cups tomato sauce
    • 1 tablespoon chili powder
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
    • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    • 1 tablespoon lime juice
    • Salt to taste

Ingredient Highlights

  • Chicken: The protein base for these enchiladas, chicken adds a savory and satisfying element. It’s a healthy and lean option, perfect for a balanced meal.
  • Avocado: Avocados add creaminess and healthy fats to the dish, balancing the heat from the enchilada sauce and adding freshness to the flavors.
  • Cheese: While optional, cheese adds richness and depth to the enchiladas. You can use a combination of mozzarella and cheddar for a perfect melt.
  • Homemade Enchilada Sauce: A key part of any enchilada, the homemade sauce here is full of flavor, using simple ingredients like garlic powder, cumin, and chili powder to create a robust, flavorful base for the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Avocado Enchiladas

Follow these easy steps to create the best Chicken Avocado Enchiladas:

Prepare the Enchilada Sauce:

  1. Heat the Oil: In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Once hot, add the flour and whisk continuously to make a roux. Cook for about 1 minute.
  2. Add the Spices: Stir in the chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, and onion powder. Let the spices toast for another minute to release their flavors.
  3. Add the Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and tomato sauce, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, letting the sauce thicken.
  4. Season and Finish: Add lime juice and salt to taste, then remove the sauce from heat and set it aside.

Prepare the Chicken Avocado Filling:

  1. Cook and Shred the Chicken: If you haven’t already, cook the chicken breasts (or thighs) by boiling, grilling, or pan-frying them until fully cooked through. Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks.
  2. Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the mashed avocado, chopped onion, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, paprika, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly mixed.

Assemble the Enchiladas:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prepare the Tortillas: Warm the tortillas slightly in the microwave or on a skillet to make them pliable.
  3. Stuff the Tortillas: Place about 3-4 tablespoons of the chicken and avocado mixture onto the center of each tortilla. If desired, add a handful of shredded cheese on top.
  4. Roll the Enchiladas: Carefully roll up each tortilla tightly, making sure the filling stays inside.

Bake the Chicken Avocado Enchiladas:

  1. Arrange in Baking Dish: Pour a small amount of enchilada sauce at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the rolled-up enchiladas seam side down in the dish.
  2. Top with Sauce: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top of the enchiladas, covering them completely.
  3. Add Cheese: Sprinkle additional cheese over the top if desired, for a gooey finish.
  4. Bake: Bake the enchiladas for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the enchiladas are heated through.

Serve and Enjoy:

  1. Cool and Serve: Once done, let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or extra avocado slices for added creaminess.

How to Serve Chicken Avocado Enchiladas

These Chicken Avocado Enchiladas can be served in a variety of ways to enhance the flavor and presentation:

  • With Rice and Beans: Serve your enchiladas with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete meal.
  • With Fresh Salsa: A fresh tomato or mango salsa pairs perfectly with these enchiladas, providing a cool contrast to the warm, spiced filling.
  • With Guacamole and Chips: For an extra indulgence, serve your enchiladas with a side of homemade guacamole and tortilla chips.
  • With Mexican Street Corn: Serve these enchiladas alongside Elote, or Mexican street corn, for a flavorful, traditional side dish.
  • As a Meal Prep Option: These enchiladas make for excellent meal prep. Simply store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Additional Tips for Chicken Avocado Enchiladas

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Chicken Avocado Enchiladas come out perfectly every time:

  • Do Not Overstuff the Tortillas: Be careful not to overfill the tortillas. This can make them difficult to roll and may cause them to fall apart during baking.
  • Use Fresh Tortillas: If possible, opt for freshly made tortillas for the best texture and flavor.
  • Adjust Spice Levels: You can adjust the spice levels by adding more or less chili powder or even including fresh chili peppers in the filling for extra heat.
  • Make Ahead: These enchiladas can be made ahead of time. Simply assemble them, cover, and refrigerate for up to a day before baking. This is perfect for busy nights or when preparing for a party.
  • Garnish for Extra Flavor: Top the finished enchiladas with freshly chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and even a drizzle of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added richness.

Recipe Variations for Chicken Avocado Enchiladas

There are many ways to customize your Chicken Avocado Enchiladas. Here are a few variations to try:

  • Vegetarian Enchiladas: Swap the chicken for black beans, grilled vegetables, or roasted sweet potatoes for a hearty vegetarian version.
  • Spicy Chicken Avocado Enchiladas: Add jalapeños or chipotle peppers to the filling for a smoky, spicy kick.
  • Cheesy Chicken Avocado Enchiladas: Add a generous amount of cheese into the chicken and avocado filling for a cheesy interior, or sprinkle more cheese on top before baking.
  • Green Chicken Enchiladas: Use green enchilada sauce (made from tomatillos and green chilies) instead of the red sauce for a tangy and zesty version.
  • BBQ Chicken Enchiladas: Mix the shredded chicken with barbecue sauce for a sweet and smoky flavor combination.

Freezing and Storage for Chicken Avocado Enchiladas

  • Freezing: You can freeze these enchiladas for up to 3 months. To do so, assemble the enchiladas and cover them tightly with plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, simply remove the foil, add the sauce, and bake as directed (you may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes of baking time).
  • Storage: Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes.

Special Equipment for Chicken Avocado Enchiladas

Here are some helpful tools you may need:

  • 9×13-inch Baking Dish: A standard size for holding all of the rolled-up enchiladas comfortably.
  • Sharp Knife: For cutting the chicken and slicing the avocados and other vegetables.
  • Mixing Bowls: For combining the chicken, avocado, spices, and sauce.
  • Whisk: To ensure the enchilada sauce is smooth and well-combined.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
  • Tortilla Warmer: A tortilla warmer is ideal for keeping your tortillas soft and pliable as you assemble the enchiladas.

FAQ Section for Chicken Avocado Enchiladas

  1. Can I use store-bought enchilada sauce? Yes, you can use store-bought enchilada sauce if you’re short on time. However, making your own sauce will enhance the flavor.
  2. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas? Yes, corn tortillas work well and are gluten-free. Just make sure to warm them first to prevent them from cracking.
  3. How can I make the enchiladas spicier? To increase the heat, add jalapeños to the filling or use hot chili powder in the sauce.
  4. Can I make these enchiladas vegetarian? Yes, simply substitute the chicken with black beans, grilled vegetables, or tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.
  5. How do I know when the enchiladas are done? The enchiladas are done when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden, and the sauce is hot and thickened.
Print

Chicken Avocado Enchiladas

Print Recipe

  • Author: Jessica
  • Prep Time: 20minutes
  • Cook Time: 40minutes
  • Total Time: 1hour

Ingredients

Scale


  • For the Enchiladas:


    • 2 tablespoons olive oil


    • 1 lb (450g) chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded


    • 2 ripe avocados, mashed


    • 8 small flour tortillas (or corn tortillas for a gluten-free option)


    • 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix, optional)


    • ½ cup chopped cilantro


    • 1 small onion, finely chopped


    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder


    • 1 teaspoon ground cumin


    • 1 teaspoon chili powder


    • 1 teaspoon paprika


    • Salt and pepper to taste




  • For the Enchilada Sauce:


    • 2 tablespoons olive oil


    • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour


    • 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)


    • 1 ½ cups tomato sauce


    • 1 tablespoon chili powder


    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder


    • 1 teaspoon ground cumin


    • 1 teaspoon onion powder


    • 1 tablespoon lime juice


    • Salt to taste





Ingredient Highlights


  • Chicken: The protein base for these enchiladas, chicken adds a savory and satisfying element. It’s a healthy and lean option, perfect for a balanced meal.


  • Avocado: Avocados add creaminess and healthy fats to the dish, balancing the heat from the enchilada sauce and adding freshness to the flavors.


  • Cheese: While optional, cheese adds richness and depth to the enchiladas. You can use a combination of mozzarella and cheddar for a perfect melt.


  • Homemade Enchilada Sauce: A key part of any enchilada, the homemade sauce here is full of flavor, using simple ingredients like garlic powder, cumin, and chili powder to create a robust, flavorful base for the dish.


Instructions

Prepare the Enchilada Sauce:

  1. Heat the Oil: In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Once hot, add the flour and whisk continuously to make a roux. Cook for about 1 minute.

  2. Add the Spices: Stir in the chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, and onion powder. Let the spices toast for another minute to release their flavors.

  3. Add the Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and tomato sauce, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, letting the sauce thicken.

  4. Season and Finish: Add lime juice and salt to taste, then remove the sauce from heat and set it aside.

Prepare the Chicken Avocado Filling:

  1. Cook and Shred the Chicken: If you haven’t already, cook the chicken breasts (or thighs) by boiling, grilling, or pan-frying them until fully cooked through. Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks.

  2. Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the mashed avocado, chopped onion, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, paprika, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly mixed.

Assemble the Enchiladas:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Prepare the Tortillas: Warm the tortillas slightly in the microwave or on a skillet to make them pliable.

  3. Stuff the Tortillas: Place about 3-4 tablespoons of the chicken and avocado mixture onto the center of each tortilla. If desired, add a handful of shredded cheese on top.

  4. Roll the Enchiladas: Carefully roll up each tortilla tightly, making sure the filling stays inside.

Bake the Chicken Avocado Enchiladas:

  1. Arrange in Baking Dish: Pour a small amount of enchilada sauce at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the rolled-up enchiladas seam side down in the dish.

  2. Top with Sauce: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top of the enchiladas, covering them completely.

  3. Add Cheese: Sprinkle additional cheese over the top if desired, for a gooey finish.

  4. Bake: Bake the enchiladas for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the enchiladas are heated through.

Serve and Enjoy:

 

  1. Cool and Serve: Once done, let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or extra avocado slices for added creaminess.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 400
  • Fat: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Protein: 20g

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Conclusion of Chicken Avocado Enchiladas Recipe

Chicken Avocado Enchiladas are a perfect combination of flavors, offering a creamy, savory, and slightly spicy dish that is sure to satisfy everyone’s appetite. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a special celebration, or preparing for a busy week, these enchiladas are an easy and delicious choice. With their Halal-friendly ingredients, rich flavors, and customizable options, they’ll quickly become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy the process of making and sharing this irresistible dish!