Name: The Best Fiesta Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 15-ounce can whole kernel corn, drained; 1 15-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed; 20 ounces canned chicken breast, drained; 2 Tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, finely minced; 1/2 tsp cumin; 1/2 tsp chili powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 4.5-ounce can diced green chiles; 10 grain-free tortillas; 2 15-ounce cans red enchilada sauce; 4 ounces grated cheddar or shredded Mexican blend cheese; Freshly chopped cilantro leaves, for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 59 reviews

If you love vibrant flavors packed into every bite, then get ready to fall head over heels for The Best Fiesta Chicken Enchiladas Recipe. This dish brilliantly combines tender chicken with a lively blend of spices, creamy black beans, and sweet corn, all wrapped up in warm tortillas and smothered in rich, zesty enchilada sauce. Every element sings with classic Mexican-inspired spirit, making it perfect for family dinners or when you want to impress guests with something both comforting and exciting. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several clear glass bowls arranged on a white marbled surface, each filled with different ingredients. In the center is a bowl with chopped light beige cooked chicken pieces. Above it to the left is a bowl full of dark black beans, and to the right is a bowl of bright yellow corn kernels. On the left side near the top is a bowl of shredded pale yellow cheese, and below it is a small bowl with four types of spices in separate segments: black pepper, chili powder, salt, and cumin. To the right of the chicken bowl is a small glass jar filled with bright red sauce. Below the sauce jar is a bowl of white chopped onions. In the bottom left corner are stacked white corn tortillas. In front of the tortillas is a very small bowl of minced garlic, and to the right of that is another bowl with fresh green cilantro leaves. The overall arrangement is neat and well-spaced, with natural lighting highlighting the textures and colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are delightfully simple yet essential for creating layers of flavor and texture that make The Best Fiesta Chicken Enchiladas Recipe truly unforgettable. Each component brings something special — whether it’s the creaminess of the black beans, the sweet crunch of corn, or the warmth of cumin and chili powder.

Whole kernel corn (1 15-ounce can): Adds a sweet crunch and bright color that balances the savory filling.
Black beans (1 15-ounce can): Brings creamy texture and protein, enhancing the dish’s heartiness.
Canned chicken breast (20 ounces): Convenient and tender, making the filling rich without extra fuss.
Olive oil (2 Tbsp): Perfect for sautéing, it lends a subtle fruity note and helps build flavors.
Small onion, diced (1): Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
Garlic cloves, finely minced (2): Delivers a fragrant punch that warms the entire dish.
Cumin (1/2 tsp): Provides earthiness and that uniquely Mexican warmth you crave.
Chili powder (1/2 tsp): Adds mild heat and complexity without overpowering.
Salt (1/4 tsp): Balances all the flavors beautifully.
Black pepper (1/4 tsp): Adds a subtle kick to enhance the spices.
Diced green chiles (1 4.5-ounce can): Gives smoky heat and a slight tang to brighten the mix.
Grain-free tortillas (10): Soft and pliable, these are sturdy enough to hold the filling without tearing.
Red enchilada sauce (2 15-ounce cans): The sauce coats the enchiladas with rich, bold flavor and a vibrant red color.
Cheddar or Mexican blend cheese (4 ounces, grated): Melts into gooey goodness, sealing the deal on flavor and texture.
Freshly chopped cilantro leaves: A bright and fresh finish when garnishing the enchiladas.

How to Make The Best Fiesta Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent and slightly golden, about 5 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until you can smell that irresistible garlicky aroma filling your kitchen. These simple steps lay the aromatic foundation that will carry through every bite of your enchiladas.

Step 2: Combine the Filling Ingredients

Into the skillet with the softened onions and garlic, stir in the drained black beans, corn, canned chicken, diced green chiles, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together well, allowing the spices to evenly coat the ingredients. Cook for a few minutes until heated through and fragrant. The combination of textures here—creamy beans, tender chicken, and crisp-tender corn—is what makes the filling so satisfyingly fiesta-worthy.

Step 3: Warm the Tortillas

Softening the tortillas before assembling is key because it makes rolling them easier and prevents cracking. You can warm them one by one in a dry skillet for about 15 seconds each side or wrap the whole stack in foil and heat in the oven at a low temperature. Warm tortillas will hug the filling and hold everything together perfectly.

Step 4: Assemble the Enchiladas

Spoon a generous amount of the filling down the center of each tortilla, then carefully roll it up snugly. Place the rolled tortillas seam side down in a baking dish, arranging them tightly side-by-side. This step is like wrapping up the fiesta flavors into neat little packages ready to be drenched in that luscious sauce.

Step 5: Pour the Enchilada Sauce and Add Cheese

Pour the red enchilada sauce all over the rolled tortillas, making sure each one gets generously coated. Sprinkle the grated cheddar or Mexican blend cheese evenly on top. This sauce-and-cheese layer not only adds richness but also seals in the filling during baking, giving those enchiladas a beautiful bubbly finish.

Step 6: Bake Until Perfect

Pop the dish into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden spots. This final baking stage melds all the flavors and textures into the delicious harmony that defines The Best Fiesta Chicken Enchiladas Recipe.

How to Serve The Best Fiesta Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

A stack of three soft, light beige tortillas sits on a white plate with visible thin texture. On the top tortilla, there is a layer of red sauce spread thinly in the middle. Over the sauce, a mix of cooked light brown chicken pieces, yellow corn kernels, and translucent cooked onions forms the second layer. On top of this, shiny black beans are being added with a silver spoon held by a woman's hand, creating a third layer. In the background, a clear glass bowl filled with yellow corn and a red bottle are visible, all set against a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro leaves sprinkled on top add a lively burst of color and a touch of herbal brightness that cuts through the richness. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or slices of ripe avocado for extra creaminess and contrast. These simple garnishes elevate the dish both visually and flavor-wise.

Side Dishes

Pair your enchiladas with a crisp mixed green salad tossed with lime vinaigrette or Mexican-style rice to soak up extra sauce. Refried beans or a corn and tomato salad would also complement the flavors beautifully, turning your meal into a complete festive feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleasing presentation, arrange the enchiladas in a colorful ceramic dish and serve with bowls of fresh toppings like chopped onions, jalapeños, or sliced olives. You could also create a build-your-own-enchilada bar with all the fixings for a fun interactive meal experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, leftover enchiladas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the sauce inside the baking dish or tight container helps preserve moisture and flavor so they stay delicious the next day.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, The Best Fiesta Chicken Enchiladas Recipe freezes beautifully. Assemble the enchiladas but do not bake, cover tightly with foil and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual for fresh-from-the-oven taste.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly. You can also microwave individual portions but keep a cover loosely on top to avoid drying out the cheese and filling.

FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned chicken breast?

Absolutely! Using cooked, shredded fresh chicken adds great flavor too. Just make sure it’s fully cooked and shredded before mixing with the filling ingredients.

What type of tortillas work best for this recipe?

Grain-free or corn tortillas work wonderfully. Just be sure to warm them before assembling so they roll easily without cracking.

Is this recipe very spicy?

This recipe has a mild to medium spice level thanks to the chili powder and green chiles. You can adjust the heat by adding more chiles or some cayenne pepper if you prefer it spicier.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with extra beans or sautéed vegetables, use vegan cheese, and ensure the enchilada sauce is dairy-free to enjoy a delicious vegan version.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Using grain-free or corn tortillas keeps this recipe naturally gluten-free, just double-check the enchilada sauce ingredients to avoid any hidden gluten.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so joyful about sharing The Best Fiesta Chicken Enchiladas Recipe with friends and family. It’s a lively, satisfying dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles and full bellies. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these enchiladas will quickly become your go-to for bold, comforting flavors. I truly hope you love making – and eating – this dish as much as I do!