Authentic Enchiladas Verdes bring the rich and tangy flavors of Mexico straight to your table. With layers of warm tortillas filled with shredded chicken and smothered in a vibrant green tomatillo sauce, they’re the perfect comfort food to enjoy with family or friends. This dish is perfect for those who crave a little spice, a lot of flavor, and the satisfaction of a homemade meal. Whether you serve it with a side of rice, beans, or a fresh salad, these enchiladas are sure to impress.
The combination of tender chicken, cheesy goodness, and the zesty green sauce is an unbeatable trio. This is a dish you’ll return to time and time again, whether for Taco Tuesday or any night you’re in the mood for something bold and flavorful.
Full Recipe:
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12 corn tortillas
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2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
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1 tablespoon vegetable oil
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1/2 cup onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 cups tomatillos, husked and chopped
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1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 cup chicken broth
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1 cup sour cream (for topping)
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1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterrey Jack)
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat and sauté onions and garlic for 2-3 minutes, until softened.
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Add chopped tomatillos, cilantro, salt, and chicken broth to the skillet. Cook for 10-15 minutes until the tomatillos break down into a sauce-like consistency.
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While the sauce cooks, warm tortillas on a dry skillet or comal for 30 seconds on each side.
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Once the sauce is ready, pour it into a blender and blend until smooth.
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In a baking dish, layer tortillas with shredded chicken and pour green sauce over each layer. Repeat until all tortillas are used.
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Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream on top.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 375 kcal | Servings: 4-6 servings
Authentic Enchiladas Verdes: A Taste of Mexico in Every Bite
Enchiladas Verdes, or green enchiladas, are a staple in Mexican cuisine, known for their bold, zesty flavor and comforting nature. Made with corn tortillas, tender chicken, and a tangy tomatillo-based green sauce, these enchiladas deliver a symphony of textures and tastes that will transport you to the heart of Mexico. This recipe takes the authentic route, offering the same flavors that have been cherished for generations.
The Rich History Behind Enchiladas Verdes
Enchiladas, in general, have a long history in Mexican culture, dating back centuries. They were originally created as a way to use up leftover tortillas, with various toppings and sauces layered on top. Enchiladas Verdes specifically refer to those that are paired with a vibrant green sauce made from tomatillos and green chilies, which are essential to creating the dish’s unique tangy and spicy flavor.
Tomatillos, a key ingredient in the green sauce, are small, round green fruits that have a papery husk. They’re slightly tart when raw but become soft and mild when cooked. They’re often used in Mexican cuisine, not only for their flavor but also for their ability to add depth to salsas and sauces. The beauty of Enchiladas Verdes lies in the balance of flavors—the sharpness of the tomatillos, the smokiness of roasted chilies, and the richness of melted cheese and chicken wrapped in soft tortillas.
The Perfect Sauce: The Heart of Enchiladas Verdes
What really sets Enchiladas Verdes apart is the green sauce. This vibrant concoction is the lifeblood of the dish and the secret to its authentic flavor. The base of the sauce is made from tomatillos, which are roasted or boiled to bring out their natural sweetness and depth. Green chilies, often serrano or jalapeño peppers, are added to the sauce for a spicy kick. Garlic, onion, and cilantro round out the sauce’s flavor profile, offering sweetness, earthiness, and freshness.
The key to a perfect Enchilada Verde sauce lies in the balance of these ingredients. While it’s easy to make the sauce too spicy, it’s important to remember that the dish is meant to have a rich, mellow heat—not overwhelming. Roasting the tomatillos and peppers also helps develop a deeper, more complex flavor. Once the sauce is prepared, it can be blended smooth, leaving behind a slightly chunky texture that clings to the tortillas, creating layers of flavor in every bite.
Tortillas and Chicken: A Match Made in Heaven
Corn tortillas are traditional when it comes to making enchiladas. Their slightly chewy texture and subtle corn flavor pair perfectly with the rich, savory ingredients. When you prepare Enchiladas Verdes, it’s important to warm the tortillas before rolling them to prevent them from breaking. Some cooks even lightly fry the tortillas in oil to make them more pliable and to add a hint of crispiness. This step not only prevents the tortillas from becoming soggy but also adds another layer of flavor to the dish.
For the filling, tender chicken is often used, though you can also use other proteins like beef or even a vegetarian option such as beans or cheese. Shredded rotisserie chicken works beautifully, but you can also use fresh cooked chicken breasts or thighs. The shredded chicken soaks up the flavors of the sauce, becoming even more flavorful as it melds with the green sauce.
The Importance of Baking
Once the tortillas are filled and rolled with the chicken, they are arranged in a baking dish, smothered with the prepared green sauce, and topped with cheese. The dish is then baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tortillas have absorbed the flavors of the sauce. Baking helps the flavors marry together, ensuring each bite is a satisfying combination of soft tortillas, savory chicken, tangy sauce, and melted cheese.
Baking the enchiladas also ensures that the tortillas don’t get soggy while allowing the sauce to penetrate the layers. The top layer of cheese gets golden and slightly crispy, adding a rich, indulgent finish to the dish. The result is a comforting, hearty meal that is warm and satisfying.
Serving Suggestions: How to Enjoy Enchiladas Verdes
Enchiladas Verdes are versatile when it comes to serving options. While the dish on its own is filling and flavorful, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Rice is a classic accompaniment, whether it’s a fluffy Mexican-style rice or a cilantro-lime variation. Beans, whether black, pinto, or refried, are another great option to balance the richness of the enchiladas.
For a lighter touch, you can serve the enchiladas with a simple side salad or guacamole. The freshness of the salad or creamy guacamole contrasts beautifully with the spicy, savory enchiladas. If you prefer more heat, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro can help cool things down.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Enchiladas Verdes are the ultimate comfort food, offering a complex blend of spicy, tangy, and creamy flavors that will leave you coming back for more. The green sauce, with its perfect balance of acidity and spice, elevates the dish and makes each bite irresistible. Whether you’re a fan of Mexican food or just looking for a new dish to try, Enchiladas Verdes are a must-try.
This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re preparing a family dinner, hosting a gathering, or simply craving something comforting on a quiet evening. It’s easy to make, and the ingredients are simple yet full of flavor. Plus, it can be made in advance and reheated, making it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
Conclusion: A Flavorful Mexican Delight
Authentic Enchiladas Verdes are a delicious and satisfying way to experience the flavors of Mexico. With their tangy green sauce, savory chicken, and melted cheese, they make for the perfect meal any time of year. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself to a comforting dish, these enchiladas are sure to please.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can adjust the level of spice, add different fillings, or even switch up the toppings to suit your tastes. Enchiladas Verdes are truly a dish that can be enjoyed by everyone, from beginners to seasoned cooks.
