We’re excited to share a fresh twist on a classic favorite with our Chicken and Avocado Enchiladas in Creamy Avocado Sauce. This dish combines tender shredded chicken with the rich, buttery flavor of ripe avocados, all wrapped in soft tortillas and smothered in a luscious, creamy sauce. It’s a perfect balance of comfort and indulgence that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Let’s gather all the essential components required to craft our Chicken and Avocado Enchiladas in Creamy Avocado Sauce — each element plays a key role in building the rich layers of flavor and texture.
For the Chicken Filling
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (preferably rotisserie for tenderness)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce
- 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
- 1 cup sour cream (use full-fat for the richest texture)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/2 jalapeño, seeded and chopped (optional for subtle heat)
- 1/4 cup water (adjust as needed for sauce consistency)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
For the Enchiladas Assembly
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Corn tortillas | 8-10, 6-inch | Softened for easy rolling |
| Shredded cheese | 1 1/2 cups | Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well |
| Cooking spray or oil | As needed | For lightly greasing the baking dish |
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sliced green onions
- Diced tomatoes
- Crumbled cotija cheese
- Sour cream or Mexican crema dolloped for extra creaminess
- Lime wedges for squeezing over just before serving
Together these ingredients will come alive to create a luscious, flavorful dish that perfectly balances creamy avocado sauce with savory chicken enchiladas.
Equipment Needed
To create the perfect Chicken and Avocado Enchiladas in Creamy Avocado Sauce, having the right equipment ensures smooth preparation and optimal results. Below is a detailed list of essential tools we need for each step, from cooking the chicken to assembling and baking the enchiladas.
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Large skillet or sauté pan | Sear onions, garlic, and warm the shredded chicken | Choose a non-stick pan for easy cleanup |
| Medium mixing bowl | Mix the creamy avocado sauce ingredients | Use a glass or ceramic bowl to avoid discoloration |
| Blender or food processor | Puree avocados, sour cream, lime juice, and jalapeño for the sauce | High-powered blender preferred for smooth texture |
| Sharp knife | Chop onions, garlic, jalapeño, cilantro | Keep it sharp for clean cuts |
| Cutting board | Prep vegetables and herbs | Use a clean, stable surface |
| Measuring cups and spoons | Measure spices, lime juice, and cream | Ensure precise measurements for balanced flavors |
| 9×13-inch baking dish | Arrange and bake assembled enchiladas | Non-stick or lightly greased for easy serving |
| Spatula or slotted spoon | Fill tortillas and transfer enchiladas to dish | Heat-resistant silicone or wooden preferred |
| Aluminum foil | Cover enchiladas during baking | Prevents drying and helps melt cheese evenly |
We recommend organizing these tools before starting to streamline the cooking process. Clean, well-prepared equipment allows us to focus on layering flavors and textures, resulting in luscious, flavorful Chicken and Avocado Enchiladas that impress every time.
Prep Work
Before we begin assembling our Chicken And Avocado Enchiladas in Creamy Avocado Sauce, proper preparation is key. This ensures every element blends perfectly and the cooking process flows seamlessly.
Preparing the Chicken
- Start with 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken — leftover rotisserie chicken works wonderfully.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- Sauté 1 small diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves until translucent and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add the shredded chicken to the skillet along with 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon chili powder, and ½ teaspoon smoked paprika for rich smoky flavor.
- Stir well to coat the chicken evenly in the spices and cook for an additional 3 minutes until heated through.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Making the Creamy Avocado Sauce
To create the signature creamy avocado sauce, follow these precise steps:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Ripe avocados | 2 medium | Peeled, pitted |
| Sour cream | ½ cup | Use full-fat for creaminess |
| Fresh lime juice | 2 tablespoons | Squeezed freshly |
| Jalapeño | 1 small (optional) | Seeded and chopped |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Adjust to taste |
| Fresh cilantro | ¼ cup | Roughly chopped |
| Garlic | 1 small clove | Minced |
- Combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor.
- Blend until ultra-smooth and creamy, scraping down sides if necessary.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or lime juice for brightness.
- Refrigerate sauce until ready to use to maintain freshness.
Preparing Tortillas
- Use 8-10 corn tortillas for authentic flavor and excellent texture.
- To make the tortillas pliable and prevent cracking:
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat.
- Warm each tortilla for about 15 seconds on each side or until soft.
- Alternatively, wrap tortillas in a damp kitchen towel and microwave for 30 seconds.
- Stack warmed tortillas on a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm and moist during assembly.
Having these prep steps completed prepares us to assemble the Chicken And Avocado Enchiladas In Creamy Avocado Sauce with ease and confidence.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create the perfect Chicken and Avocado Enchiladas in Creamy Avocado Sauce with rich flavor and smooth texture.
Cooking the Chicken Filling
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add 1 cup diced onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Stir in 2 cloves minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add 3 cups cooked shredded chicken to the skillet.
- Sprinkle in the following spices evenly:
| Spice | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Smoked paprika | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
- Mix thoroughly and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and the filling to heat through completely.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Assembling the Enchiladas
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing it with oil or nonstick spray.
- Warm 12 corn tortillas by wrapping them in a damp towel and microwaving for 30-45 seconds or heating on a skillet until pliable.
- In a bowl, prepare the creamy avocado sauce by blending:
- 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 small jalapeño (optional, for heat)
- Salt to taste
Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Spread a thin layer of avocado sauce evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.
- Lay a warm tortilla flat and spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken filling down the center.
- Roll the tortilla tightly and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
- Pour remaining avocado sauce generously over the rolled enchiladas.
- Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack) evenly on top.
Baking the Enchiladas
- Cover the baking dish loosely with foil to prevent the cheese from burning.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Let the enchiladas rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired.
Serving Suggestions
To enhance the vibrant flavors of our Chicken and Avocado Enchiladas in Creamy Avocado Sauce, we recommend pairing them with carefully curated sides and garnishes that complement the rich, buttery taste and luscious texture.
Here are our top serving suggestions:
- Fresh Side Salad: Serve with a crisp mixed greens salad dressed lightly with lime vinaigrette. The acidity cuts through the creaminess of the sauce, balancing the palate.
- Mexican Rice: Pair the enchiladas with fluffy Mexican rice seasoned with tomatoes, garlic, and cumin to provide a subtle, earthy backdrop.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans with a sprinkle of queso fresco add protein and enhance the meal’s traditional flair.
- Garnishes to Elevate Every Bite:
- Chopped fresh cilantro adds an herby brightness.
- Diced red onions provide a mild crunch.
- Sliced jalapeños bring optional heat.
- Lime wedges offer fresh acidity to squeeze over the enchiladas.
- Beverage Pairing:
- A chilled margarita or sparkling water with lime cleanses the palate between bites and heightens the dining experience.
| Component | Purpose | Serving Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Mixed Greens Salad | Adds freshness and acidity | Dress lightly with lime vinaigrette |
| Mexican Rice | Provides earthy flavor and texture | Use fresh tomatoes and cumin for seasoning |
| Refried Beans | Adds creaminess and protein | Top with queso fresco for extra richness |
| Cilantro & Red Onions | Adds brightness and crunch | Sprinkle on top just before serving |
| Jalapeños | Adds heat and spice | Serve sliced on the side for customization |
| Lime Wedges | Adds acidity to cut through richness | Squeeze over enchiladas to brighten flavor |
Pro Tip: Serve the enchiladas immediately after resting to enjoy the sauce at its creamiest. Encourage guests to customize each bite with garnishes for a personalized flavor experience.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
To enjoy our Chicken And Avocado Enchiladas In Creamy Avocado Sauce anytime, planning ahead is key. Here are practical tips to store and prepare these luscious enchiladas efficiently while preserving their fresh flavors and creamy texture.
Storing Cooked Enchiladas
- Cool Completely: Allow enchiladas to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation which can make tortillas soggy.
- Refrigeration: Place the enchiladas in an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the assembled enchiladas before baking. Wrap tightly in aluminum foil and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months to maintain best quality.
Reheating Instructions
We recommend gentle reheating to keep the creamy avocado sauce luscious and the chicken moist:
| Method | Steps | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oven | Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil, bake until heated through. | 20-25 minutes | Keeps enchiladas evenly heated |
| Microwave | Cover loosely with microwave-safe lid or paper towel. Heat in increments. | 2-3 minutes | Stir sauce if reheating separately |
| Stovetop (Sauce) | Warm avocado sauce gently over low heat, stirring frequently. | 5 minutes | Prevents sauce from breaking |
Make-Ahead Tips for Assembly
- Prepare Filling and Sauce in Advance: Cook the shredded chicken filling and blend the creamy avocado sauce up to 2 days ahead. Store each in separate airtight containers in the fridge.
- Tortilla Prep: Warm and wrap tortillas in foil, then refrigerate for up to 1 day to keep them pliable.
- Assemble Just Before Baking: For optimal texture, assemble the enchiladas and bake just before serving. However, you can also assemble and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours to save time on busy days.
Quick Reference Storage Guide
| Item | Storage Method | Maximum Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked Enchiladas | Refrigerator airtight | 3-4 days |
| Cooked Enchiladas | Freeze (wrapped) | 2 months |
| Chicken Filling (cooked) | Refrigerator airtight | 2 days |
| Avocado Sauce | Refrigerator airtight | 2 days |
| Corn Tortillas (warmed) | Refrigerated in foil | 1 day |
“Pro Tip: When freezing enchiladas, avoid adding the avocado sauce until after baking and reheating to keep the sauce’s creamy consistency intact and prevent discoloration.”
Utilizing these Storage and Make-Ahead Tips will help us savor the full richness of our Chicken And Avocado Enchiladas In Creamy Avocado Sauce without sacrificing flavor or freshness.
Conclusion
This recipe brings together bold flavors and creamy textures that make every bite unforgettable. It’s perfect for anyone looking to elevate a classic enchilada with a fresh twist.
With a little prep and the right ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both comforting and impressive for family dinners or casual gatherings.
We’re confident that these Chicken and Avocado Enchiladas will become a favorite in your recipe collection, delivering luscious taste and satisfying meals every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Chicken and Avocado Enchiladas?
The key ingredients include cooked shredded chicken, ripe avocados, onions, garlic, spices, corn tortillas, sour cream, lime juice, shredded cheese, and optional jalapeño for heat.
How do you make the creamy avocado sauce?
Blend ripe avocados, sour cream, lime juice, and jalapeño (optional) until smooth to create the rich and creamy avocado sauce.
What equipment is needed to prepare these enchiladas?
You will need a large skillet, medium mixing bowl, blender, baking dish, and utensils like a spoon and knife.
How do you make the chicken filling flavorful?
Sauté diced onions and minced garlic in olive oil, then add shredded chicken and spices to enhance the flavor.
How should the corn tortillas be prepared?
Warm the tortillas until pliable using a skillet or microwave to prevent cracking during assembly.
What is the baking process for these enchiladas?
Assemble the filled tortillas in a greased baking dish, top with avocado sauce and cheese, cover with foil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes.
Can these enchiladas be stored and reheated?
Yes, store cooled enchiladas in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Reheat using an oven, microwave, or stovetop.
What are some good side dishes to serve with these enchiladas?
Recommended sides include mixed greens salad with lime vinaigrette, Mexican rice, and refried beans with queso fresco.
How do garnishes improve the dish?
Fresh cilantro, diced red onions, sliced jalapeños, and lime wedges add brightness, texture, and extra flavor to each bite.
Is it better to add the avocado sauce before or after baking?
For best creaminess, add most of the avocado sauce before baking and reserve some to add fresh after reheating.