MEXICAN CHICKEN ENCHILADAS WITH SPICY TOMATO SAUCE

A classic Mexican dish traditionally made with leftover chicken and a flavorful, spicy tomato sauce. This version uses small flatbreads for easier rolling and Gouda cheese instead of the traditional orange cheddar—perfect for adapting to local ingredients.

🕒 Prep Time: 20 minutes

🍳 Cook Time: 25 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 3 (using 3 small flatbreads or 6 tortilla halves)

Ingredients

Filling:

Leftover cooked chicken meat
OR
2 chicken breasts (~400 g)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Spicy Tomato Sauce:

1 can (400 g) peeled tomatoes
3 ripe medium tomatoes, diced
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp Mexican seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade)
Chili powder, optional (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste

Other:

3 small flatbreads (or 6 tortilla wraps)
Grated cheese (Gouda or any melting cheese)

Instructions

Prepare Filling:
If using fresh chicken breasts, slice into large strips. Sauté onion and garlic in 1 tbsp oil until softened. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and fully cooked. Remove chicken and shred into thin strips. Discard leftover onion and garlic from pan.
Make Sauce:
In the same pan, sauté chopped onion and garlic until translucent. Add fresh diced tomatoes and canned tomatoes (crushed with a fork). Cook for about 5 minutes over medium heat without reducing too much. Season with salt, pepper, Mexican seasoning, and chili powder (start with ½ tsp, adjust to preference).
Prepare Flatbreads:
Separate each flatbread into halves to make thinner wraps. Dip each piece in the tomato sauce to coat both sides evenly.
Assemble Enchiladas:
Place a portion of chicken filling at one end of each flatbread half and roll tightly. Arrange rolled enchiladas snugly in a baking dish. Pour remaining tomato sauce over them. Optional: Blend the sauce for a smoother texture before pouring.
Bake:
Sprinkle grated cheese generously on top. Bake at 200°C (390°F) for 10 minutes, until cheese melts and bubbles.

💡 Tips

Using smaller, thinner flatbreads or homemade tortillas makes rolling easier.
Adjust chili powder to control spiciness.
Gouda melts well and is a great substitute for orange cheddar if unavailable.

🎉 Perfect For

Casual family dinners
Mexican-themed parties
Comfort food on chilly evenings

📝 Final Thoughts

These Mexican chicken enchiladas combine tender shredded chicken with a rich, spicy tomato sauce and gooey melted cheese, all wrapped in soft flatbreads. An easy, flavorful dish that’s adaptable to local ingredients and perfect for any occasion.