Kid-Friendly Enchiladas Canned Chicken For Fun Family Dinners
When it comes to family dinners, finding a meal that pleases both kids and adults can be a challenge. That’s where these Kid-Friendly Enchiladas with Canned Chicken come in! They are not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrients. The best part? They take advantage of canned chicken for a quick, hassle-free dinner option. Perfect for busy weeknights, these enchiladas are sure to become a favorite in your household.
In this recipe, you’ll learn how to make delicious enchiladas that are kid-approved and fun to eat. With a creamy filling, zesty sauce, and customizable toppings, each bite is a delightful experience. Plus, they are a great way to sneak in some vegetables! Let’s get started on this delightful dish that promises to bring the family together around the dinner table.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 cans (12.5 oz each) of canned chicken, drained and shredded
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 can (10 oz) of enchilada sauce
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 1/2 cup of sour cream
- 1 cup of black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup of corn, canned or frozen
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Avocado slices for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the canned chicken, black beans, corn, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until well combined and heated through, about 5 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses and the sour cream, mixing until everything is well incorporated.
- Spread half of the enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- To assemble the enchiladas, take one tortilla and place a generous scoop of the chicken mixture in the center. Roll it up tightly and place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Once all enchiladas are placed in the baking dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the sauce.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with avocado slices on the side, if desired.
Why Use Canned Chicken?
Using canned chicken in this recipe not only saves time but also simplifies the cooking process. Canned chicken is fully cooked, making it a convenient option for busy families. It’s a versatile ingredient that can be used in various recipes, but it shines in these enchiladas.
Canned chicken is also cost-effective, allowing you to create delicious meals without breaking the bank. Plus, it has a long shelf life, making it a great pantry staple for those last-minute dinner plans.
Customization Ideas
One of the best things about enchiladas is how customizable they are! Here are some ideas to make this dish your own:
- Vegetables: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the filling for extra nutrients.
- Spice Level: If your family enjoys a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of chili powder to the filling.
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or queso blanco for a milder flavor.
- Toppings: Let your kids choose their favorite toppings like diced tomatoes, olives, or lettuce for a fun and interactive meal.
Serving Suggestions
These Kid-Friendly Enchiladas with Canned Chicken can be served with a variety of side dishes to complete your family dinner. Here are some ideas:
- Mexican Rice: A side of fluffy Mexican rice pairs wonderfully with enchiladas.
- Guacamole: Homemade or store-bought guacamole adds a creamy element to the meal.
- Fresh Salad: A light salad with lime dressing can balance the richness of the enchiladas.
- Chips and Salsa: Offer tortilla chips with salsa for a crunchy side.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the enchiladas in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned chicken?
Yes, you can use shredded cooked chicken instead of canned chicken. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the filling.
2. Can these enchiladas be frozen?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled but unbaked enchiladas. Just cover them tightly with foil and freeze. When ready to bake, cook directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
3. Are these enchiladas gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas and ensure that your canned chicken and enchilada sauce are gluten-free.
4. How can I make these enchiladas vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and replace it with black beans or sautéed vegetables. You can also add some refried beans for extra protein.
These Kid-Friendly Enchiladas with Canned Chicken are not only a breeze to make but also a surefire hit with the whole family. With their savory filling and cheesy goodness, they bring a taste of Mexico to your dinner table. Enjoy this delightful meal and create wonderful family memories around the table!
