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trader joe's chicken enchiladas

Trader Joe's Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

Elaine Gordon
Let’s face it; some days you just want something easy and comforting. Enter Trader Joe's Chicken Enchiladas. This dish captures the essence of flavorful Mexican cuisine while fitting perfectly into a busy lifestyle.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 8
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil or extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 small white onion finely diced
  • 1 4-ounce can diced green chiles
  • 1 15-ounce can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
  • 3 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
  • 8 large flour tortillas
  • 1 batch red enchilada sauce
  • Fresh cilantro leaves
  • Chopped red onions
  • Diced avocado
  • Sour cream
  • Crumbled cotija cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for added depth
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives for a savory twist

Instructions
 

  • Start by heating the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add in the diced onion. Sauté until they become translucent, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the diced chicken. Sprinkle some sea salt and freshly cracked pepper. Cook the chicken until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes.
  • Once the chicken is fully cooked, add in the diced green chiles and drained black beans. Mix everything well, allowing the flavors to meld. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  • Take one tortilla and spoon the chicken mixture down the center. Sprinkle some shredded cheese on top of the filling. Roll the tortilla tightly, creating an enchilada. Place it seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat this process until all tortillas are filled.
  • Once all enchiladas are in the baking dish, pour the red enchilada sauce generously over the top. Make sure to cover each enchilada well. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over everything for that glorious melty finish.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to achieve that beautiful golden crust.
  • Remove the enchiladas from the oven. Let them cool slightly before serving. Top with your desired toppings—fresh cilantro, diced avocado, sour cream, and more cheese make for a delicious finish.

Notes

  • Use Leftover Chicken: If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, it saves time and adds even more flavor.
  • Spice Level: Feel free to amp up the heat. Add jalapeños or more chili powder to the filling.
  • Make Ahead: You can prepare these enchiladas ahead of time. Just keep them in the fridge before baking.
  • Freeze for Later: These enchiladas freeze well. Just cover tightly before freezing, and they can last for up to 3 months.
  • Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheese blends. Pepper Jack or a sharp cheddar give a unique twist.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcal
Keyword trader joe's chicken enchiladas recipe
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