Introduction
There’s something incredibly comforting about a plate of enchiladas, especially this high-protein version that’s perfect for a healthy dinner or meal prep. The combination of tender shredded chicken, creamy cottage cheese, and tangy Greek yogurt creates a rich and satisfying filling that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Topped with bubbly, melted cheese and drizzled with zesty enchilada sauce, these enchiladas are sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, they’re simple to whip up, making them a go-to recipe for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded low-fat cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 cup enchilada sauce (preferably homemade or low-sodium)
- 8 whole wheat tortillas
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it nice and hot for our cheesy creation.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, and half a cup of the shredded cheese. Add in the garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy.
- Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish, just enough to keep those tortillas from sticking!
- Take a tortilla and scoop about ⅓ cup of the chicken mixture into the center. Roll it up tightly and place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat this step for the remaining tortillas.
- Once all the tortillas are snug in the baking dish, pour the rest of the enchilada sauce over the top, making sure to cover all those beautiful rolls generously.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the enchiladas to create that melty, gooey topping we all love.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the oven for 20 minutes to allow everything to meld together.
- After 20 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and has developed a slightly golden hue.
- Take your enchiladas out of the oven and let them sit for a few minutes. This will help everything set up a bit, making serving easier. Just before digging in, garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor!
Notes or Tips
For a twist, try adding some black beans or corn to the chicken mixture for extra texture and flavor. If you like heat, sprinkle in some diced jalapeños or chili powder. These enchiladas also freeze beautifully; just prepare them up to the baking step, cover tightly, and pop them in the freezer. Bake straight from frozen; you may need to add a bit of extra time!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe showcases some fundamental cooking techniques, such as mixing, rolling, and baking. It’s a great opportunity to practice your rolling skills to ensure each enchilada is tightly sealed, resulting in a deliciously cohesive dish. Additionally, preheating your oven is essential for achieving that perfect bubbly cheese topping, so don’t skip this step. Lastly, layering flavors in the filling and sauce creates a wonderful depth that will have your guests coming back for seconds!
FAQ
Can I use other meats in this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, beef, or even pulled pork would work wonderfully, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Of course! Substitute the chicken with black beans, lentils, or a mix of sautéed vegetables for a hearty, meat-free version.
How can I make the enchiladas spicier?
Add in some diced jalapeños to the filling or use a spicy enchilada sauce for an extra kick.
Conclusion
These high-protein chicken enchiladas are not only a comforting classic, they’re also a nutritious delight that the whole family will adore. With their creamy filling and savory cheese topping, you’ll find every bite simply irresistible. Whether you’re serving them up for dinner or prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking!