Enchiladas are a delicious Mexican dish that is perfect for feeding a crowd. While you can make enchiladas completely from scratch, using rotisserie chicken from Costco can save lots of time without sacrificing any flavor. This easy recipe will show you how to transform Costco’s pre-cooked chicken into cheesy, saucy enchiladas in just a few simple steps.
Ingredients
To make chicken enchiladas from a Costco rotisserie chicken, you will need:
- 1 whole Costco rotisserie chicken
- 1 small white onion, diced
- 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chiles
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 (10 ounce) cans red enchilada sauce
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Steps
Follow these simple steps to make chicken enchiladas with a Costco rotisserie chicken:
Prep the chicken
Start by removing all the meat from the rotisserie chicken. Discard the skin and bones. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Set aside.
Cook the onion and chiles
In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. When hot, add the diced onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the green chiles and garlic and cook for 1 minute more. Remove from heat.
Warm the tortillas
Place the stack of corn tortillas on a plate and cover with damp paper towels. Microwave for 60 seconds to warm and soften them. This will make them easier to roll.
Assemble the enchiladas
Set up an assembly line with your ingredients. Lay out one tortilla and add about 2-3 tablespoons of shredded chicken down the center. Top with 1-2 tablespoons of the onion and chile mixture, then sprinkle with cheese. Roll up tightly and place seam side down in a 9×13 baking dish. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling. Pour the enchilada sauce over the top making sure to cover all the rolled tortillas.
Bake
Cover baking dish with foil and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for 5 minutes more to lightly brown the cheese. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Tips
Here are some tips for making perfect chicken enchiladas from a Costco rotisserie chicken:
- Be sure to remove all bones, skin and cartilage from the chicken to avoid bite-downs.
- Warming the tortillas before rolling is a must for easy assembly without ripping.
- Don’t overfill the tortillas or they will be difficult to roll up.
- Use plenty of sauce and spread it evenly over the rolled enchiladas before baking.
- Cover with foil first for even heating then uncover at the end for browning.
- Let enchiladas rest 5 minutes after baking so the sauce sets up.
Customize It
Try adding your own spin to these easy chicken enchiladas:
- Use a combo of shredded cheese like cheddar and Monterey Jack.
- Add some diced veggies like bell pepper, zucchini or corn.
- Mix in some black beans or rice for extra texture.
- Top with queso fresco, avocado, sour cream or cilantro.
- For spicy enchiladas, use hot sauce or chopped jalapenos.
- Bake in a large casserole dish for 2-3 servings at once.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze chicken enchiladas:
- Assemble unbaked enchiladas in a foil pan and top with sauce and cheese.
- Cover tightly with heavy duty foil.
- Label pan with contents and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in fridge before ready to bake.
- Remove foil, recover with regular foil and bake as directed.
Baked and cooled enchiladas can also be frozen. Wrap individual enchiladas tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze in a freezer bag. Reheat frozen enchiladas still wrapped in 350°F oven for 30-40 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of tortillas work best?
Corn tortillas are traditional for enchiladas and have the best flavor. Flour tortillas are easier to handle if you’re new to rolling enchiladas.
Do I need to cook the filling first?
The cooked rotisserie chicken from Costco can be used as-is without precooking. Just shred or chop it up finely before assembling the enchiladas.
What’s the best way to roll them up?
Warming the tortillas makes them pliable so they roll up easier without cracking. Use about 2-3 tbsp of filling in the center, then fold in sides and roll tightly.
Can I prepare them ahead of time?
Yes, enchiladas can be assembled up to 2 days in advance then covered and refrigerated until ready to bake.
What sides go well with enchiladas?
Some tasty sides to serve with chicken enchiladas include:
- Spanish rice
- Refried or black beans
- Chips and guacamole
- Shredded lettuce salad
How should I store leftovers?
Leftover enchiladas will keep for 3-4 days stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave until hot and melty.
Conclusion
Chicken enchiladas made with a Costco rotisserie chicken are an easy, budget-friendly and crowd-pleasing meal. By using already cooked chicken, you skip the hassle and time of cooking the chicken yourself. Follow the simple assembly steps to create cheesy, saucy enchiladas worthy of any Mexican restaurant. Feel free to customize with different fillings and toppings to suit your tastes. With the convenience of rotisserie chicken and the versatility of enchiladas, you’ll have a delicious weeknight dinner or potluck dish that never disappoints.