High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas

If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort and nutrition, these High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas are just the ticket! This recipe has been a favorite in my home for years, and it never fails to impress both family and friends. With creamy cheese, spicy chili flavor, and tender chicken, these enchiladas are perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Plus, they’re so delicious that you’ll be excited about leftovers!

The best part? These enchiladas fit right into your fitness goals without sacrificing flavor. You get a healthy dose of protein while enjoying a meal that feels indulgent. Let’s dive into why this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a 20-minute prep time, you can have dinner on the table in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cheesy enchiladas—this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make Ahead: Prepare these ahead of time for stress-free meals throughout the week.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of spices and creamy filling makes every bite a delight.
• Healthy Twist: Packed with lean protein and wholesome ingredients, this dish supports your healthy lifestyle.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for these High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas are simple and wholesome. You probably have many of them on hand already! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Filling

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 oz reduced-fat cream cheese
• 1 tbsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles

For Assembly

• 6 large whole wheat tortillas
• 1 cup low sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend

Toppings

• 1/3 cup light sour cream (for topping)
• Chopped cilantro (for garnish)
• Nonstick cooking spray

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with different ingredients based on what you have or prefer. Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick alternative.
• Add veggies: Include sautéed bell peppers or spinach in the filling for extra nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick!
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese and use vegan cheese.

How to Make High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick spray. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken breasts for about 6–7 minutes per side until they are fully cooked through. This step ensures your chicken is juicy and tender; letting it cool slightly before shredding helps keep it moist.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, minced garlic, cream cheese, chili powder, and diced green chiles. Mix until creamy and well combined. This filling is where all the magic happens—it’s packed with flavor and gives your enchiladas that delicious creamy texture!

Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas

Take each tortilla and spoon an ample amount of the chicken mixture into it. Roll them up tightly and place them seam-side down in your prepared baking dish. Assembling them this way prevents spills during baking and keeps everything neatly packed inside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, simmer the low sodium chicken broth along with any extra chili powder you’d like to add. Pour this flavorful sauce over your enchiladas before baking—this adds moisture during cooking and enhances their overall flavor.

Step 5: Bake

Top your assembled enchiladas with shredded Mexican cheese blend and cover with foil. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20–25 minutes. In the last 5 minutes of baking, remove the foil to allow those edges to crisp up beautifully.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked to perfection, finish off with dollops of light sour cream and sprinkle chopped cilantro on top before serving. Enjoy every bite of these comforting High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas—they’re sure to become a beloved meal in your household!

Pro Tips for Making High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas

Making these enchiladas is a breeze, but a few tips can take your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and produce enhance the overall flavor and texture of the enchiladas, making them taste homemade and vibrant.

• Don’t overfill the tortillas: While it’s tempting to stuff them, overfilling can cause torn tortillas or difficulty in rolling. Aim for just the right amount to ensure they hold together beautifully.

• Let the chicken cool before shredding: Allowing your chicken to cool slightly makes shredding easier and helps retain its moisture, leading to juicier enchiladas.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to customize the chili powder or add other spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a unique flavor profile that suits your palate.

• Make it ahead of time: These enchiladas can be assembled in advance and stored in the fridge before baking. This makes them a perfect option for busy weeknights!

How to Serve High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas

Presentation is key when serving these delightful enchiladas! Here are some ideas on how to elevate your dish for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Adding a sprinkle of fresh green onions not only adds color but also brings a mild onion flavor that complements the dish perfectly.

• Sliced jalapeños: For those who love extra heat, fresh sliced jalapeños make a spicy garnish that kicks up the flavor profile.

• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado adds richness and balances out the spiciness, providing a delicious contrast in texture.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This refreshing salad combines corn, lime juice, cilantro, and spices for a bright side that pairs wonderfully with enchiladas.

• Black Beans: Seasoned black beans are a classic choice that adds protein and fiber while complementing the flavors of your enchiladas beautifully.

• Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice mixed with cilantro and lime zest offers a vibrant base that enhances each bite of your creamy enchiladas.

• Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: A crunchy side of tortilla chips paired with creamy guacamole is always a hit. It provides an enjoyable textural contrast alongside your warm enchiladas.

Now you’re all set to make these High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas shine on your dinner table! Enjoy every cheesy, spicy bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

These High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas are perfect for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can easily prepare them in advance and store them for later, ensuring you always have a delicious, protein-packed meal ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the enchiladas to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze assembled but unbaked enchiladas.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-35 minutes or until heated through.
• If thawed, reheat in the oven for 15-20 minutes.
• You can also microwave individual portions on high for about 2-3 minutes.

FAQs

If you’re curious about these tasty enchiladas, here are some commonly asked questions!

Can I substitute chicken with another protein in High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas?

Absolutely! You can use shredded turkey or even black beans for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

How can I make High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas spicier?

If you love heat, add more chili powder or include diced jalapeños when mixing the filling. You could also top them with spicy salsa before serving!

Can I use regular cream cheese instead of reduced-fat cream cheese?

Yes, using regular cream cheese will yield a richer flavor and creamier texture. Just be mindful of the calorie content if you’re watching your intake.

What sides pair well with High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas?

Consider serving them with a fresh salad, guacamole, or a side of Mexican rice. All these options complement the flavors beautifully!

Are these enchiladas suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! These enchiladas are great for meal prep as they store well in the fridge and even freeze nicely. Perfect for quick meals throughout the week!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas! They’re not just delicious but also easy to prepare, making them a fantastic addition to your dinner rotation. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or as leftovers, I’m sure they’ll become a family favorite. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience with me—I’d love to hear how it goes!