Spicy Chipotle Shredded Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
If you’re craving bold, smoky, and spicy Mexican flavors, these Spicy Chipotle Shredded Chicken Enchiladas are the perfect dish! The chipotle sauce adds just the right amount of heat and smokiness, while the cheesy, creamy filling makes every bite rich and satisfying.
I first made this recipe when I wanted something spicier than classic enchiladas but still quick and easy to prepare. The chipotle sauce gives the chicken a deep, smoky heat, and the melty cheese and sour cream help balance out the spice. Whether you’re making dinner for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is a winner!
Let’s get started!
⏱ Recipe Time & Servings
| Preparation Time | Total Cooking Time | Number of Servings |
|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings (8 enchiladas) |
🛒 Ingredients for My Spicy Chipotle Shredded Chicken Enchiladas
- 2 cups shredded chicken (cooked)
- 1 cup chipotle sauce
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
⭐ Pro Tips for Success
- Warm the Tortillas First – Lightly frying the tortillas prevents them from breaking when rolling the enchiladas.
- Use a Good Chipotle Sauce – A homemade chipotle sauce or a quality store-bought version makes all the difference in flavor!
- Don’t Overfill the Tortillas – Keeping the filling balanced helps them roll up tightly without falling apart.
- Bake Until Bubbly – The cheese should be melted and golden brown before removing from the oven.
- Balance the Spice – If you like extra heat, add chopped jalapeños inside. If you prefer it milder, mix some tomato sauce into the chipotle sauce.
🍳 Tools Required
- Large mixing bowl (for chicken mixture)
- Skillet (for softening tortillas)
- Baking dish (for assembling enchiladas)
- Spoon or spatula (for spreading sauce)
🔄 Substitutions and Variations
| Substitution | Original Ingredient | New Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Flour tortillas | Corn tortillas | A softer, milder texture |
| Greek yogurt | Sour cream | A tangier, high-protein option |
| Smoked paprika | Chipotle sauce | A mild smoky flavor |
| Black beans | Shredded chicken | A vegetarian alternative |
| Queso fresco | Shredded cheese | A milder, crumbly cheese option |
⏳ Make-Ahead Tips
- Shred the chicken ahead of time – Store in the fridge for up to 3 days for quick prep.
- Pre-roll the enchiladas – Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight before baking.
- Freeze for later – Assemble, wrap in foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 35 minutes.
🥄 Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Spicy Chipotle Shredded Chicken Enchiladas
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little oil or cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded chicken with 1 cup of chipotle sauce, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon cumin, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir until well coated.
For extra heat, you can add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper!
Step 3: Soften the Tortillas
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Lightly fry each corn tortilla for 30 seconds per side until soft and pliable.
This step helps prevent tortillas from cracking when rolling the enchiladas. If you prefer, you can microwave the tortillas for 20 seconds instead.
Step 4: Assemble the Enchiladas
Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla. Sprinkle with a little shredded cheese, then roll the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the baking dish.
Repeat with the remaining tortillas and chicken mixture until all 8 enchiladas are arranged snugly in the dish.
Step 5: Add the Sauce and Cheese
Pour any remaining chipotle sauce over the top of the enchiladas, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the rest of the shredded cheese over the top.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, drizzle sour cream over the enchiladas and sprinkle with fresh cilantro.
Serve immediately with lime wedges, avocado slices, or extra salsa on the side! 🌮🔥
🍽 Serving Suggestions for Spicy Chipotle Shredded Chicken Enchiladas
| Pairing Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Mexican Rice | A perfect side that absorbs the spicy sauce. |
| Refried Beans | Creamy and hearty, a great complement to the heat. |
| Guacamole | Cool, creamy, and balances the smoky chipotle flavors. |
| Corn Salad | Adds sweetness and freshness to the meal. |
🥡 Leftovers and Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
- Freeze: Wrap enchiladas individually in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
🥦 Nutritional Information and Benefits of This Dish
- High in Protein – The shredded chicken provides a great source of lean protein.
- Rich in Flavor – Chipotle peppers are packed with antioxidants and smoky spice.
- Customizable Heat Level – Adjust the spice by adding or reducing chipotle sauce.
🍷 Suggested Drink That Pairs With The Dish
Best Drink Pairing: Classic Margarita 🍹
Why? The citrus and sweetness of a margarita perfectly balances the smoky spice of the enchiladas. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, try hibiscus agua fresca for a fruity, refreshing contrast!
❤️ Enjoy!
These Spicy Chipotle Shredded Chicken Enchiladas are the perfect mix of smoky, cheesy, and spicy goodness. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a party, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
Try them out and let me know what you think! 🌶️🌮✨
