The aroma of Mom’s Green Enchiladas wafts through the air, a delightful blend of zesty tomatillos and creamy cheese that dances in your senses. Picture layers of soft corn tortillas enveloping savory fillings, topped with a vibrant green sauce that practically begs you to dig in.
This dish isn’t just food; it’s a warm hug on a plate, perfect for taco Tuesdays or family gatherings. Growing up, I would sneak into the kitchen, trying to catch a glimpse of my mom’s secret cooking techniques. If only I had known then that her green enchiladas would become my culinary anthem—each bite bursting with nostalgia and flavor!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These green enchiladas are easy to prepare, making them perfect for weeknight dinners
- The combination of fresh ingredients creates an explosion of flavors in each bite
- Visually appealing with their bright green sauce, they are sure to impress guests at any gathering
- They are versatile enough to customize with different proteins or vegetables based on your preference
Ingredients for Mom’s Green Enchiladas
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Corn Tortillas: Opt for fresh tortillas if possible; they add a delightful texture and flavor.
- Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken works well and saves time; it adds rich flavor.
- Green Enchilada Sauce: You can use store-bought or homemade; choose one that packs a punch!
- Shredded Cheese: A blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar brings gooeyness and flavor.
- Sour Cream: This is for topping; it adds creaminess that balances the heat from the sauce.
For the Sauce:
- Tomatillos: Look for firm, bright green tomatillos; they provide that signature tangy flavor.
- Garlic: Fresh cloves enhance depth; roast them for an even richer taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Mom’s Green Enchiladas
Start by preparing the filling: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken with half of the enchilada sauce and half of the cheese until well mixed. This step ensures each bite is packed with flavor.
Next comes tortilla heating: Warm each corn tortilla individually in a skillet over medium heat until pliable but not crispy. This makes rolling them easier and keeps them from breaking apart.
Now let’s roll: Spoon about two tablespoons of the chicken mixture into each tortilla, then roll tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish. Think of it as tucking your enchiladas into their cozy blanket!
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, ensuring they are generously covered. Sprinkle with the remaining cheese on top—because who doesn’t love more cheese?
Bake these beauties in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Your kitchen will soon fill with mouthwatering scents that might just have you dancing around like no one’s watching!
Finally, serve hot topped with dollops of sour cream and garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. Every forkful is a taste of home cooked love that brings back those cherished memories while creating new ones!
You Must Know
- This delightful Mom’s Green Enchiladas recipe brings a taste of home to your table
- Bursting with flavor and simple to prepare, they are perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions
- Customize them as you wish, and watch everyone come back for seconds!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by prepping your ingredients: chop onions, shred cheese, and blend the green sauce. Sauté any veggies while warming the tortillas. Assemble your enchiladas in a baking dish, pour on the sauce, and bake until bubbly. Timing is key for mouthwatering results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for beef, tofu, or beans for a vegetarian twist. Experiment with toppings like sour cream or avocado. Add spices such as cumin or chili powder to amp up the flavor. The options are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave them; just cover with a damp paper towel to keep them moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure perfect Mom’s Green Enchiladas every time, remember these tips: Use fresh tortillas for better texture and flavor
- Don’t overfill your enchiladas to prevent tearing during assembly
- Let them rest before serving for enhanced flavors and easier slicing
Some of my fondest memories revolve around family gatherings where Mom’s Green Enchiladas took center stage, filling our home with laughter and delicious aromas that lingered long after dinner was over.
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Mom’s Green Enchiladas?
To make Mom’s Green Enchiladas, you will need corn tortillas, a green enchilada sauce, cooked shredded chicken or cheese as the filling, and toppings like sour cream, cilantro, and avocado. You can also add diced onions or black olives for extra flavor. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize the filling based on your preferences. Be sure to have all ingredients ready before you start assembling the enchiladas to streamline the cooking process.
How do I store leftovers of Mom’s Green Enchiladas?
Store any leftovers of Mom’s Green Enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to freeze them, wrap the enchiladas tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat them, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I make Mom’s Green Enchiladas vegetarian?
Absolutely! To create a vegetarian version of Mom’s Green Enchiladas, simply replace the chicken with black beans, sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers and zucchini, or even cheese. Use a vegetable-based green enchilada sauce for added flavor. This way, you can enjoy all the deliciousness of this dish while accommodating vegetarian diets without sacrificing taste.
What can I serve with Mom’s Green Enchiladas?
Mom’s Green Enchiladas pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with Mexican rice or refried beans for a hearty meal. A simple side salad with avocado and tomato can provide freshness and balance out the flavors. Additionally, chips with salsa or guacamole make for great appetizers before enjoying these enchiladas.
Conclusion for Mom’s Green Enchiladas:
Mom’s Green Enchiladas are a delightful dish that combines comforting flavors with easy preparation. With just a few ingredients—tortillas, filling, and green sauce—you can create a meal that’s both satisfying and customizable. Whether you choose chicken or opt for a vegetarian twist, these enchiladas please every palate. Don’t forget to pair them with your favorite sides for an unforgettable dining experience that brings family together at the table.
Mom’s Green Enchiladas
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Mom’s Green Enchiladas are a comforting dish that perfectly blends the tangy flavors of tomatillos with rich, creamy cheese. Layered with tender corn tortillas, savory chicken, and a vibrant green sauce, this recipe is a nostalgic favorite that brings family together at the dinner table. Easy to prepare and customizable to suit any palate, these enchiladas are perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Serve them hot with a dollop of sour cream and fresh cilantro for an unforgettable meal.
Ingredients
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup green enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1.5 cups shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese blend
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for topping)
- 10 tomatillos (husked and rinsed)
- 3 garlic cloves
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine shredded chicken with half of the enchilada sauce and half of the cheese.
- Warm each tortilla in a skillet until pliable.
- Spoon about two tablespoons of the chicken mixture into each tortilla and roll tightly.
- Place rolled tortillas seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Serve hot with sour cream and garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: For added flavor, roast garlic before mixing it into the sauce. Substitute chicken with black beans or sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option. Customize toppings with avocado or diced onions for extra flair.
