Low Calorie High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas: An Incredible 7-Step Recipe

Low Calorie High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas are a fantastic dish that satisfies your cravings without the guilt. Imagine a rich and creamy sauce enveloping tender chicken, all wrapped in soft corn tortillas. This dish is not only delicious but also cleverly crafted to be low in calories and high in protein. Perfect for those who want to enjoy flavorful meals while maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
When it comes to comfort food, enchiladas often take center stage. Their versatility allows you to customize them according to your taste preferences, making them suitable for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping meals for the week, or planning a gathering with friends, these enchiladas will impress everyone at the table. Be prepared for a plate that not only looks tempting but also tastes divine!
Now, if you’re not already convinced, let’s explore all the reasons why this dish deserves a spot in your weekly meal plan. In this guide, you’ll discover why Low Calorie High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas are amazing, and learn how to prepare them effortlessly. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Low Calorie High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas offer various benefits that make them a must-try. Here are some key reasons why you’ll undoubtedly fall in love with this recipe:
1. Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with lean protein, veggies, and wholesome ingredients, these enchiladas are good for you.
2. Low Calorie Count: Each serving is low in calories without compromising flavor, making it easy to enjoy a hearty meal.
3. Quick and Easy Preparation: With simplified steps, you can whip up this dish in no time—even on busy weeknights!
4. Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike can savor these creamy enchiladas, making mealtime enjoyable for everyone.
5. Customizable: Feel free to tweak ingredients based on your dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
6. Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and creamy texture make this dish visually appealing.
7. Make-Ahead Meal: Perfect for meal prep! This dish can be made in advance and reheats beautifully.
These enticing factors contribute to the overall appeal of Low Calorie High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas, establishing them as a practical and indulgent addition to your culinary repertoire!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Creating these enchiladas is straightforward and efficient. Here’s a breakdown of the time involved:
– Preparation Time: 20 minutes
– Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
– Total Time: Approximately 50-60 minutes
This timing allows even the busiest home cooks to assemble and bake a delicious meal with relative ease.

Ingredients

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup low-fat sour cream
– 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 cup diced green chilies (canned or fresh)
– 1 cup shredded low-fat cheese (Mexican blend works well)
– 8 small corn tortillas
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
– Sliced jalapeños, for topping (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Low Calorie High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas is an enjoyable experience if you follow these steps:
1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) for optimal cooking temperature.
2. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, sour cream, chicken broth, green chilies, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, and salt and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
3. Soften Tortillas: Heat the corn tortillas in a pan over medium-low heat for about 30 seconds on each side to make them pliable.
4. Stuff the Tortillas: Take one tortilla, spoon a portion of the chicken filling into the center, then roll it up tightly. Repeat this process for all tortillas.
5. Spread Sauce: Pour a small amount of the remaining chicken broth in the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking. Place the rolled enchiladas seam-side down in the dish.
6. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top of the enchiladas and drizzle any remaining sour cream if desired.
7. Bake: Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
Once baked, you’re ready to enjoy this mouthwatering dish!

How to Serve

To elevate your serving experience with Low Calorie High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas, consider the following tips:
1. Garnish: Top with freshly chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños for added freshness and spice.
2. Accompaniments: Serve alongside a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to keep the meal light and nutritious.
3. Additional Toppings: Add dollops of guacamole, diced avocado, or a sprinkle of lime juice for extra flavor.
4. Portion Control: Slice into smaller portions if serving a crowd, encouraging guests to enjoy multiple servings without overindulging.
5. Pairing: Complement the enchiladas with a refreshing beverage, such as a light Mexican lager or coconut water, to balance the dish’s richness.
By considering these serving suggestions, you create a delightful dining experience everyone will remember!

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh chilies and high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
– Warm Tortillas: Always warm corn tortillas before filling; it prevents tearing and enhances flexibility.
– Experiment with Herbs: Try adding fresh herbs like oregano or thyme to the filling for an aromatic twist.
– Portion Control: Use measuring cups for the filling to maintain consistency in portion sizes.
– Add Fiber: Include black beans or spinach in the filling to increase fiber content without adding many calories.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to customize your Low Calorie High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas! Here are some tasty variations:
1. Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms and zucchini for a meatless option.
2. Spicy Kick: For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
3. Cheese Lovers: Mix different types of cheese, such as queso fresco or pepper jack, for a flavorful twist.
4. Grain-Free Option: Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas for a low-carb variant.

Freezing and Storage

– Refrigeration: Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
– Freezing: You can freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
– Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until heated through.

Special Equipment

To make your cooking process smoother, you might need the following:
– Mixing bowls for combining ingredients.
– An oven-safe baking dish for cooking the enchiladas.
– A non-stick skillet to soften tortillas.
– Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient portions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these enchiladas gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free corn tortillas instead of regular ones, and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
How can I increase the protein content further?
Add some black beans or chickpeas to the filling to boost the protein without significantly increasing calories.
What can I substitute for low-fat sour cream?
Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative can be used as a substitute for low-fat sour cream.
Are these enchiladas kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The creamy texture and mild flavor of the filling generally appeal to kids. Just watch the spice levels if your little ones are sensitive to heat.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and store the filling in the refrigerator up to two days ahead of time for convenience.

Conclusion

Low Calorie High Protein Creamy Chilli Chicken Enchiladas are a delightful dish that brings comfort and nutrition together. Their creamy filling and vibrant flavors make them an enticing choice for any meal. By adapting this recipe, you can cater to specific preferences and incorporate ingredients that suit your dietary needs. This makes it a versatile option for everyone at the table.

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