Enchiladas rojas are like a fiesta on a plate, bursting with vibrant flavors that dance in your mouth. The rich, velvety sauce envelops the tortillas, creating a cozy embrace that’s simply irresistible. Imagine savoring each bite, where the warmth of spices meets the freshness of ingredients, inviting you to take another delicious plunge.
I remember the first time I made enchiladas rojas for my family; it was an epic culinary adventure that turned into a delightful mess. My kitchen transformed into an aromatic haven as laughter floated through the air. This dish is perfect for cozy gatherings or lively celebrations, ensuring each bite paints a picture of festive joy. Get ready to embark on this flavor-packed journey!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Enchiladas rojas are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for weeknight dinners
- The combination of spices creates a flavor profile that tantalizes your taste buds
- Visually appealing with their bright red hue, they bring a splash of color to your table
- This dish is versatile enough to accommodate various fillings and dietary preferences
My family couldn’t stop raving about how delicious these enchiladas were; it quickly became our go-to comfort food.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Corn Tortillas: Opt for fresh corn tortillas for the best texture and authentic flavor; they hold up beautifully in the sauce.
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Shredded Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep or cook your own; it adds hearty protein and amazing flavor.
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Red Enchilada Sauce: Choose store-bought or homemade; look for one with a rich tomato base and vibrant spices.
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Cheese Blend: A mix of Oaxaca and Monterey Jack cheese provides meltiness; feel free to get creative with your favorites.
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Sour Cream: Adds a creamy tang and balances out the richness; don’t forget to dollop generously on top!
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Fresh Cilantro: Use chopped cilantro as a garnish for freshness; it elevates the entire dish with its aromatic notes.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Shred your chicken if you haven’t already, and chop your cilantro for garnishing later.
Warm Up Those Tortillas: Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly toast each tortilla until warm and pliable. This step helps prevent tearing when rolling them up.
Assemble Your Enchiladas: Take a tortilla and spread some shredded chicken down the center. Spoon some enchilada sauce over the chicken before rolling it tightly.
Add Sauce and Cheese: Place rolled enchiladas seam-side down in a baking dish. Pour additional enchilada sauce over them and sprinkle generously with cheese.
Bake To Perfection: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes until cheese is bubbling and golden brown, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
Garnish and Serve!: Once out of the oven, let them cool slightly before garnishing with sour cream and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately while still warm for maximum enjoyment!
You Must Know
- Enchiladas rojas are more than a dish; they’re a fiesta in your mouth
- The blend of spicy sauce and cheesy goodness creates an irresistible meal that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in
- Remember to savor every bite while enjoying the aromas wafting through your kitchen
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the sauce, then fill and roll tortillas while it simmers. This sequence keeps everything hot and fresh, ensuring the enchiladas are ready to serve right when they’re most delicious.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for beef or veggies to suit your taste. Experimenting with different cheeses or adding beans can elevate your enchiladas rojas into something uniquely yours, bursting with flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in an oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, restoring their original deliciousness without drying them out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Incorporating homemade tortillas makes a world of difference; their freshness enhances flavor
- Ensure you soak dried chiles long enough for optimal blending into the sauce
- Lastly, don’t rush the cheese melting process; patience results in gooey perfection
There was that time when I made enchiladas rojas for my friends’ dinner party. They devoured them so quickly that I barely had a chance to even taste my own creation!

FAQ
What are enchiladas rojas made of?
Enchiladas rojas typically consist of tortillas filled with meat, cheese, or veggies and smothered in red sauce.
Can I make enchiladas rojas ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them ahead and bake just before serving for convenience.
What should I serve with enchiladas rojas?
Serve these tasty enchiladas with rice and beans, or a fresh salad for balance.
Enchiladas Rojas
Enchiladas rojas are a vibrant celebration of flavors, featuring tender tortillas filled with savory shredded chicken and smothered in rich red sauce. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, bringing a touch of warmth and joy to every meal. With a delightful blend of spices and cheese, enchiladas rojas promise to be a family favorite that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or homemade)
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce
- 1 cup shredded Oaxaca cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for serving)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm each tortilla until pliable.
- Fill each tortilla with shredded chicken, drizzle with enchilada sauce, and roll tightly.
- Place rolled enchiladas seam-side down in a baking dish, pour remaining sauce over them, and top with cheese.
- Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish with sour cream and fresh cilantro before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 55mg





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