Budget-Friendly Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

Name: Budget-Friendly Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack); 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen); 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 8 corn tortillas; 1 cup enchilada sauce; 1/4 cup chopped cilantro; Sour cream (optional); Sliced jalapeños (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Savor the rich flavors of these budget-friendly chicken enchiladas, perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.

Created by

Fiona Carter

Last updated on 2025-12-28T21:01:12.317Z

This recipe for budget-friendly chicken enchiladas combines tender chicken with flavorful spices, all wrapped in soft tortillas and smothered in a savory sauce. It's a comforting dish that won't break the bank!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously seasoned chicken wrapped in soft tortillas
Affordable ingredients that won't compromise on flavor
A hit with the whole family, perfect for any occasion

      

A Flavorful Twist on Tradition

Enchiladas are a beloved dish that originates from Mexican cuisine, traditionally made with various fillings wrapped in tortillas and smothered in sauce. This budget-friendly chicken enchiladas recipe gives a delightful twist to the classic dish, utilizing simple yet flavorful ingredients that will satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank. By using shredded chicken, black beans, and corn, you create a hearty filling that is both nutritious and delicious.

The combination of spices like chili powder and cumin adds warmth and depth to the dish, ensuring that each bite is bursting with flavor. This recipe embraces the essence of comfort food while remaining accessible and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the standout features of this chicken enchiladas recipe is its suitability for meal prep. With a little planning, you can make a large batch that will feed your family for several days or provide delicious leftovers for lunch. Simply prepare the enchiladas, bake them, and store the extras in the refrigerator or freezer. When you're ready to enjoy them again, just reheat in the oven for a quick and satisfying meal.

Meal prepping not only saves time during the week but also helps you stick to your budget by minimizing food waste. By preparing these enchiladas in advance, you can ensure that you always have a flavorful, homemade meal ready to go, making busy days a little less hectic.

Customizable and Versatile

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. While the traditional filling of shredded chicken, black beans, and corn is delicious, feel free to customize it to suit your family's preferences. You can easily swap in ground beef, turkey, or even a vegetarian option like sautéed vegetables or lentils. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of cheese or enchilada sauce to create variations that cater to your taste.

Serving suggestions are also plentiful. Pair these enchiladas with a fresh salad, guacamole, or a side of rice to create a well-rounded meal. The options are endless, allowing you to make this dish your own while still keeping it budget-friendly.

Ingredients

For the Enchiladas

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
8 corn tortillas
1 cup enchilada sauce

For Topping

1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Sour cream (optional)
Sliced jalapeños (optional)

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smoother.

Instructions

Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder. Mix well to combine.

Fill the Tortillas

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a tortilla, fill it with a generous amount of the chicken mixture, and sprinkle with cheese. Roll it up tightly and place it seam-side down in a baking dish.

Add Sauce and Bake

Once all tortillas are filled and placed in the dish, pour the enchilada sauce over the top. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden.

Let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with cilantro and any other toppings you desire.

Tips for Perfect Enchiladas

To ensure your enchiladas roll up easily, warm the tortillas slightly before filling them. This makes them more pliable and less likely to tear. You can do this by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving them for about 30 seconds, or by lightly warming them in a skillet.

If you prefer extra saucy enchiladas, feel free to add a little more enchilada sauce to the dish before baking. This will not only enhance the flavor but also keep the tortillas moist, ensuring a delicious outcome.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover chicken enchiladas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them before baking. Wrap the enchiladas tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and they can last in the freezer for up to three months.

To reheat, simply bake the frozen enchiladas directly in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating refrigerated enchiladas, bake for 20 minutes or until warm. Add a sprinkle of cheese on top before reheating for an extra cheesy finish.

Nutritional Benefits

This chicken enchiladas recipe is not only budget-friendly but also packed with nutritional benefits. The shredded chicken provides a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. Black beans add fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer.

Additionally, corn contributes valuable vitamins and minerals, while the spices used in the recipe can offer various health benefits. By incorporating these wholesome ingredients, you can enjoy a delicious meal that supports your nutrition goals without sacrificing flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?

Yes, flour tortillas can be used, but they may alter the traditional flavor and texture.

→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can substitute the chicken with a mixture of sautéed vegetables or extra beans.

→ Can I freeze the enchiladas?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled enchiladas before baking. Just cover them tightly and bake from frozen, adding extra time.

→ What can I serve with enchiladas?

Enchiladas pair well with rice, beans, or a fresh salad.