Bold flavors take center stage with this chicken smothered in rich, zesty enchilada sauce. Every bite delivers the perfect kick of spice, balanced with tender, juicy meat that soaks up every drop of savory goodness.
This dish brings the spirit of your favorite Mexican comfort food straight to the dinner table without the fuss. Homemade or store-bought enchilada sauce works beautifully, giving you flexibility without sacrificing flavor.
The sauce clings to the chicken as it bakes, creating a bubbling, flavorful coating that pairs perfectly with rice, tortillas, or fresh avocado slices. This recipe fits right into a busy schedule while still making dinner feel special.
One pan, bold flavor, and zero stress make it a standout option for any night of the week. Invite some spice into your kitchen and let this easy enchilada chicken bring new life to your dinner routine.
Chicken With Enchilada Sauce Recipe
Chicken with enchilada sauce is a tasty and simple dish. It brings bold flavors without too much effort. The tender chicken soaks up the rich sauce, and every bite feels hearty and satisfying.
You don’t need many ingredients or special tools. Just a pan, a few spices, and a little time. Perfect for weeknights. Great with rice, tortillas, or even just on its own.
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Serving: 4 people
- Calorie: 320 per serving
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
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1 tablespoon vegetable oil
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon ground cumin
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½ teaspoon paprika
For the Enchilada Sauce:
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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2 tablespoons chili powder
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon ground cumin
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¼ teaspoon dried oregano
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2 cups chicken broth
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Salt to taste
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1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional for deeper flavor)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
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Cut the chicken into small strips or cubes.
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Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a pan over medium heat.
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Add chicken, salt, pepper, garlic powder, cumin, and paprika.
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Stir and cook for 8–10 minutes. Make sure chicken turns golden and cooks through.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
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In another pan, heat 2 tablespoons oil over medium heat.
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Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute until it turns light brown.
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Add chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and oregano.
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Slowly pour in the chicken broth. Stir well to avoid lumps.
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Add salt and tomato paste. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce
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Add the cooked chicken to the sauce.
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Stir well and simmer for 5 more minutes.
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Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Top Tips
Keep the Chicken Juicy
Don’t overcook the chicken. Once it turns white and firm, it’s done.
Make it Spicy or Mild
Adjust chili powder to control heat. Use mild for a softer taste.
Sauce Consistency
Too thick? Add a splash of broth. Too thin? Simmer a little longer.
Variations
Use Shredded Chicken
Got leftover cooked chicken? Shred it and mix it with the sauce.
Add Veggies
Bell peppers, onions, or corn work well. Sauté them with the chicken.
Try With Cheese
Top with shredded cheese and broil for 2 minutes. Melts perfectly.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
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Calories: 320 kcal
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Protein: 28g
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Fat: 18g
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Carbohydrates: 12g
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Fiber: 2g
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Sugar: 2g
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Sodium: 600mg
FAQs
What can I eat this with?
Serve it with rice, over nachos, inside tacos, or with warm tortillas.
Can I freeze this?
Yes. Let it cool, then store in an airtight container. Freeze up to 2 months.
Is enchilada sauce spicy?
It can be. Use less chili powder for a mild version.
Can I use store-bought sauce?
Yes, but homemade tastes fresher and has fewer additives.
Conclusion
Chicken with enchilada sauce is full of flavor and easy to make. It needs simple ingredients and just one or two pans. You can cook it fresh or use leftovers.
It works for both lunch and dinner. With a few small changes, you can make it just the way you like. Want something tasty without much work? This dish is a great choice.
