Name: Easy Chicken with Enchilada Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast tenderloins (These cook quickly and stay juicy.); 2 tsp salt (Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.); 1 tsp pepper (Adds a touch of spice.); 1 tbsp olive oil (For sautéing and adding richness.); 1 cup enchilada sauce (The star of the dish, bringing depth and flavor.); ½ cup water (Helps to create a nice sauce consistency.); 1 tbsp cilantro, fresh chopped (optional, for garnish, adding a fresh touch.)

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Sometimes, you just need a meal that’s quick, simple, and packed with flavor. Enter Easy Chicken with Enchilada Sauce—an effortless dish that brings the zest of Mexican cuisine right into your kitchen without the fuss. This dish combines tender chicken breast tenderloins with a rich enchilada sauce, creating a comforting meal that your whole family will love. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this recipe is all about convenience without compromising on taste.

The Upside of Easy Chicken with Enchilada Sauce

One of the best things about Easy Chicken with Enchilada Sauce is its versatility. Whether you’re serving it over rice, in tacos, or with a side of veggies, this dish adapts to your cravings. Plus, it requires minimal ingredients and is ready in just about 30 minutes. This means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights or when unexpected guests drop by.

What Goes In

To whip up this delightful meal, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

1 lb chicken breast tenderloins – These cook quickly and stay juicy.
2 tsp salt – Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.
1 tsp pepper – Adds a touch of spice.
1 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing and adding richness.
1 cup enchilada sauce – The star of the dish, bringing depth and flavor.
½ cup water – Helps to create a nice sauce consistency.
1 tbsp cilantro, fresh chopped (optional) – For garnish, adding a fresh touch.

Tools of the Trade

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the following tools:

Skillet – A large skillet is ideal for cooking the chicken evenly.
Spatula – For flipping the chicken and mixing the sauce.
Meat Thermometer – Ensures your chicken is cooked to the right temperature.
Serving Spoon – For serving up that delicious enchilada chicken.

Mastering Easy Chicken with Enchilada Sauce: How-To

Creating this dish is straightforward and can be broken down into a few simple steps.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breast tenderloins with salt and pepper. Make sure to coat them evenly to enhance the flavor.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken tenderloins to the skillet.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. If you have a meat thermometer, ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, pour in the enchilada sauce and water. Stir well to combine, allowing the sauce to coat the chicken.

Step 5: Simmer

Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve hot. You can enjoy it over rice, in tortillas, or alongside your favorite sides.

Nutrition-Minded Tweaks

If you’re looking to lighten up this dish or modify it for dietary needs, consider these options:

Swap Chicken for Turkey: Use ground turkey for a leaner option.
Use Low-Sodium Enchilada Sauce: Decrease sodium intake without sacrificing flavor.
Add Vegetables: Toss in bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
Whole Wheat Tortillas: If serving in tortillas, opt for whole wheat for extra fiber.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

When making Easy Chicken with Enchilada Sauce, keep these common pitfalls in mind:

Overcrowding the Pan: Avoid adding too many chicken pieces at once, as this can cause steaming rather than browning.
Not Preheating the Skillet: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken to get that perfect sear.
Using Cold Sauce: If the enchilada sauce is cold, it can cool down the cooking process. Warm it slightly before adding.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

This recipe is perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead of time. Here are some tips to help you become a make-ahead pro:

Cook and Store: Prepare the chicken and enchilada sauce, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze for Later: This dish freezes well. Portion it out in freezer-safe containers for quick meals later on.
Reheat with Care: When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or microwave to avoid drying out the chicken.

Common Qs About Easy Chicken with Enchilada Sauce

Can I use chicken thighs instead of tenderloins?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will provide a richer flavor and remain juicy, making them a great alternative.

Is this dish spicy?

The level of spiciness can depend on the enchilada sauce you choose. For a milder version, opt for a mild sauce, or make your own.

Can this recipe be doubled?

Yes! You can easily double the ingredients to serve a larger crowd. Just ensure your skillet is large enough to accommodate all the chicken.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with beans or a meat substitute, and maintain the same cooking method.

Next Up in Your Queue

Once you’ve mastered Easy Chicken with Enchilada Sauce, consider trying these delicious recipes next:

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have all the tips, tricks, and insights you need, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking. Easy Chicken with Enchilada Sauce is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your table. Whether you’re enjoying it with family or sharing it with friends, this dish is sure to delight everyone. So gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and enjoy the delightful flavors of this easy, breezy recipe. Happy cooking!