Budget-Friendly Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

Name: Budget-Friendly Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn, frozen or canned; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); 8 small flour tortillas; 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Sour cream; Chopped cilantro; Sliced jalapeños; Chopped green onions

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Enjoy delicious and satisfying chicken enchiladas without breaking the bank! This recipe is perfect for families or anyone looking to save money while enjoying a tasty meal.

Created by

Riley Dawson

Last updated on 2025-12-30T00:07:12.376Z

This Budget-Friendly Chicken Enchiladas Recipe combines simple ingredients to create a dish that’s both flavorful and easy on your wallet. Perfect for weeknight dinners!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Affordable ingredients that won't break the bank
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
Customizable with your favorite toppings and fillings

      

Affordable and Delicious

Making meals that are both delicious and budget-friendly can be a challenge, but this Chicken Enchiladas recipe strikes the perfect balance. With just a few affordable ingredients, you can create a satisfying dish that the whole family will love. Using cooked chicken, canned black beans, and frozen corn simplifies the preparation process while keeping costs low. This means you can enjoy a hearty meal without compromising on flavor or quality.

Many families face the dilemma of wanting to serve nutritious meals while staying within their budget. This enchiladas recipe not only meets that need but also ensures that you won't have to sacrifice taste. The combination of spices and cheese elevates the dish, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to stretch their grocery budget without skimping on flavor.

Quick and Easy Weeknight Meal

In today's fast-paced world, finding time to cook a homemade meal can be tough. This Chicken Enchiladas recipe is designed with busy weeknights in mind. With just a few simple steps and minimal preparation, you can have a delicious dinner on the table in about 45 minutes. It's perfect for those nights when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Moreover, the simplicity of this recipe allows you to spend more time with your family rather than slaving away at the stove. The straightforward ingredients and quick assembly mean that even novice cooks can whip up a delightful dinner effortlessly. This way, you can enjoy quality time with your loved ones while savoring a home-cooked meal.

Customizable for Everyone

One of the best aspects of this Chicken Enchiladas recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the filling to suit your personal tastes or dietary needs. Whether you want to add more vegetables, substitute the chicken with beef or keep it vegetarian, the possibilities are endless. This adaptability makes it a fantastic option for families with varying preferences.

Additionally, the toppings can be adjusted based on what you have on hand or what your family enjoys. From creamy sour cream to fresh cilantro and spicy jalapeños, each bite can be tailored to create a unique flavor experience. This not only adds excitement to your meals but also encourages everyone to participate in the cooking process.

Ingredients

For the Enchiladas

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn, frozen or canned
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
8 small flour tortillas
1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

For Toppings

Sour cream
Chopped cilantro
Sliced jalapeños
Chopped green onions

Feel free to mix and match ingredients to suit your taste!

Instructions

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare Filling

In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, black beans, corn, half of the cheese, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Fill Tortillas

Place a generous amount of the chicken mixture in the center of each tortilla, roll them up, and place seam-side down in a baking dish.

Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour the enchilada sauce over the tortillas and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Allow to cool slightly before serving. Top with sour cream, cilantro, jalapeños, and green onions as desired.

Enjoy your delicious homemade enchiladas!

Serving Suggestions

These Chicken Enchiladas can be paired with a variety of side dishes to create a complete meal. Consider serving them with a fresh garden salad, rice, or even some homemade guacamole for an extra special touch. These sides not only complement the enchiladas but also add nutritional value to your dinner.

For those looking to add a bit more spice to the meal, consider serving a side of salsa or a zesty lime wedge. The added acidity can enhance the flavors of the enchiladas and provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, storing them is easy! Simply place the enchiladas in an airtight container and refrigerate. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option. Just be sure to cover the dish to retain moisture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the enchiladas before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When you're ready to bake them, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then proceed with the baking instructions. This makes meal prep a breeze and ensures you always have a delicious meal ready to go!

Nutritional Benefits

This Chicken Enchiladas recipe is not only budget-friendly but also packed with nutritional benefits. The inclusion of black beans provides a good source of protein and fiber, helping you feel full and satisfied. The combination of chicken and beans creates a balanced meal that is both filling and nutritious.

Additionally, adding corn and other toppings like fresh cilantro and jalapeños contributes vitamins and minerals to your dish. This ensures that you're not only enjoying a delicious meal but also nourishing your body with essential nutrients. It's a win-win for health-conscious families looking to make smart eating choices!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! It's a great time-saver and adds flavor.

→ What can I substitute for tortillas?

You can use corn tortillas or lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.

→ How can I make these enchiladas vegetarian?

Substitute the chicken with more beans, vegetables, or tofu.

→ Can I freeze leftover enchiladas?

Yes, just cover them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven when ready to eat.