Chicken enchiladas made with Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup are the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and comfort. With just a few pantry staples like sour cream, chili powder, and Pace Picante Sauce, this dish becomes an easy go-to meal for busy nights or family gatherings. The creamy texture of Campbell’s soup provides the perfect base for a rich, flavorful sauce that elevates the entire dish.
Need more ideas for quick and easy meals? You can explore a variety of Campbell’s soup recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re looking for soups, casseroles, or skillet meals, Campbell’s has you covered with simple ingredients and flavorful results.
This article will take you through a detailed recipe for chicken enchiladas using Campbell Soup, complete with step-by-step instructions, tips for making the perfect enchiladas, creative variations, and answers to some frequently asked questions.
Ingredients for Chicken Enchiladas with Campbell Soup
Here are the essential ingredients you’ll need for this easy chicken enchilada recipe:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) Campbell’s® Cream of Chicken Soup (or Gluten-Free Cream of Chicken Soup for gluten-free options)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup Pace® Picante Sauce (choose your preferred spice level)
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 2 cups cooked, chopped chicken (rotisserie chicken or leftovers work great)
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 6 small flour tortillas (use corn tortillas for gluten-free options)
- 1 small tomato, chopped (about 1/2 cup)
- 1 green onion, sliced (about 2 tablespoons)
These ingredients are simple, yet the combination creates a rich, satisfying flavor that will leave everyone coming back for seconds.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Soup Mixture
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix together the Campbell’s® Cream of Chicken Soup, sour cream, Pace Picante Sauce, and chili powder until well combined. This mixture will create the creamy sauce that coats your enchiladas, providing a delicious base for the entire dish.
Pro Tip: Adjust the amount of chili powder based on how spicy you want your enchiladas. If you like it hotter, add more chili powder or a splash of hot sauce.
Step 2: Combine Chicken and Cheese
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of the soup mixture, the cooked chicken, and Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until well combined. This will be your chicken filling, which is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor.
Make sure to season with salt and pepper to taste. If you want extra cheese, feel free to add more shredded cheddar or Colby Jack for added richness.
Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas
Take each tortilla and spoon the chicken mixture into the center. Roll up the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in a greased 11×8-inch baking dish. Repeat this process with all the tortillas.
Once all the enchiladas are rolled, pour the remaining soup mixture over the top, ensuring that the tortillas are well-coated. This will make the enchiladas creamy and flavorful once baked.
Step 4: Bake the Enchiladas
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes or until the enchiladas are hot and bubbly. For a golden finish, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh chopped tomato and green onion.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Enchiladas
To make your chicken enchiladas even better, here are some helpful tips:
- Use rotisserie chicken for a faster and more flavorful option. You can also use leftover chicken from a previous meal.
- Be sure to warm your tortillas before using them. This helps to make them more pliable and less likely to tear when rolling.
- Customize the spice level by adjusting the chili powder or by adding jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling.
- For an extra cheesy dish, top the enchiladas with shredded cheddar cheese before baking. The more cheese, the better!
Creative Variations on the Recipe
This recipe is highly customizable. Here are some fun ways to mix things up:
- Swap the soup flavor: Try using Campbell’s® Cream of Mushroom Soup or Cream of Celery Soup for a different twist. These variations can change the flavor profile and give the enchiladas a new depth.
- Add vegetables: Boost the nutrition and flavor by adding diced bell peppers, corn, or black beans to the chicken mixture.
- Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free version. They give the enchiladas a more authentic taste and texture.
Experiment with these variations to make the dish your own, and you’ll always have a new version to try!
How to Serve Chicken Enchiladas
Chicken enchiladas are a deliciously satisfying dish all on their own, but pairing them with the right sides can take your meal to the next level. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting a gathering, these side dish suggestions will complement the rich flavors of your chicken enchiladas with Campbell Soup and enhance the overall dining experience.
Classic Mexican Rice and Refried Beans
Mexican rice and refried beans are the ultimate classic side dishes to serve with chicken enchiladas. The fluffiness of the rice and the creamy texture of the beans provide a hearty and flavorful balance to the spiciness and richness of the enchiladas. The savory, mildly spiced rice pairs perfectly with the savory chicken filling, while the beans add a nice contrast in both flavor and texture.
- Mexican rice is typically seasoned with tomatoes, garlic, and spices like cumin and chili powder, adding a depth of flavor that complements the mild creaminess of the enchiladas.
- Refried beans (either pinto or black beans) provide a creamy, rich contrast to the crunchy tortilla edges of the enchiladas, making every bite more satisfying.
Fresh Guacamole, Sour Cream, or Salsa
A few dollops of guacamole, sour cream, or salsa can really elevate the taste of your enchiladas. These cool, tangy condiments help balance the heat and spice from the enchiladas, giving you a refreshing contrast with every bite.
- Guacamole is a great choice for a creamy, smooth texture and a hint of lime, which pairs beautifully with the warm, cheesy flavors of the enchiladas.
- Sour cream is a classic topping that adds richness and a slight tang, cutting through the cheese and spiciness.
- Salsa (whether it’s mild, medium, or hot) brings a burst of freshness and flavor, along with a little extra kick if you like it spicy.
For those who prefer a smoky flavor, you can even use chipotle salsa or roasted tomato salsa to add some depth and heat.
A Crisp and Light Side Salad
If you’re looking to balance the richness of the enchiladas with something fresh, a side salad with a zesty lime dressing is an excellent choice. A light salad can provide a contrast in both flavor and texture, refreshing the palate between bites of the creamy and cheesy enchiladas.
- You can prepare a simple green salad with lettuce, tomatoes, avocados, and cucumbers, topped with a tangy lime vinaigrette. The acidity of the lime dressing helps cut through the richness of the enchiladas.
- For extra flavor, toss in some cilantro or radishes to give the salad a more authentic Mexican flair.
Crispy Tortilla Chips and Salsa
For a more casual meal, or as an appetizer, tortilla chips served with salsa make an easy and delicious pairing with chicken enchiladas. The crispy texture of the chips contrasts nicely with the softness of the enchiladas, and dipping the chips in salsa or guacamole is a fun, tasty addition to the meal.
- You can also serve nacho cheese alongside your chips for a cheesy appetizer that will get everyone in the mood for the main course.
Additional Side Suggestions
- Mexican Street Corn (Elote): This grilled corn on the cob, slathered in mayo, lime, chili powder, and cotija cheese, is another fantastic side to pair with enchiladas. The sweet, smoky flavor of the corn complements the savory chicken enchiladas beautifully.
- Grilled Vegetables: If you’re looking for a lighter option, grilled veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, and onions offer a smoky flavor and fresh crunch that balance the richness of the enchiladas.
By pairing your chicken enchiladas with Campbell Soup with any of these sides, you can create a well-rounded and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress. These dishes will not only complement the enchiladas but also enhance the entire dining experience, making it feel like a true fiesta.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, don’t worry—they store and reheat beautifully. Leftover chicken enchiladas with Campbell Soup are just as delicious the next day, and they’re perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch.
Storing Leftovers
To keep your enchiladas fresh for as long as possible:
- Place the leftover enchiladas in an airtight container.
- Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy filling and flavorful sauce will keep the enchiladas moist and tasty.
- If you want to freeze them, place the enchiladas in a freezer-safe container and cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap. These will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Leftovers
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the enchiladas in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent them from drying out.
- Heat in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re heated through. If you have a lot of leftover sauce, you may want to spoon a little more over the enchiladas before reheating.
- If you’re in a rush, you can microwave individual portions. Just place the enchiladas on a microwave-safe plate, cover them with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 1-2 minutes until they’re hot.
Reheating in the oven will help maintain the texture of the enchiladas, keeping them crispy on the edges and creamy inside. The leftovers are just as delicious as the original dish, making them a great option for meal prepping!
By following these simple steps, you can enjoy your chicken enchiladas with Campbell Soup for days after the initial meal, ensuring nothing goes to waste. Plus, it makes for an easy and satisfying lunch or dinner option later in the week.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of Campbell’s soup for this recipe?
Yes! While Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup is the traditional choice for chicken enchiladas, you can try alternatives like Cream of Mushroom Soup for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the new soup variety complements the other ingredients. If you prefer experimenting with other chicken-based soups, you can also consider using Campbell’s Cream of Celery Soup for a more subtle flavor.
For more ways to prepare chicken, you might find this Cooking the Perfect Chicken Filipino Recipe helpful.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare chicken enchiladas with Campbell Soup up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble the dish, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it when ready. This is especially great for meal prepping or for entertaining guests without the stress of last-minute cooking.
If you’re looking for other make-ahead chicken dishes, you might enjoy the Chicken Wraps Recipe.
How do I make chicken enchiladas spicier?
If you enjoy a little heat, there are a few simple ways to spice up your chicken enchiladas:
- Add more chili powder to the chicken mixture.
- Mix in sliced jalapeños or even a spicier variety of Pace Picante Sauce.
- You could also try adding chipotle chili for a smoky heat.
For more spicy chicken ideas, check out this recipe for The Perfect Chipotle Chicken Burrito.
Can I freeze chicken enchiladas with Campbell Soup?
Yes, these enchiladas freeze beautifully! After assembling, cover them tightly with foil and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply thaw the enchiladas overnight in the refrigerator and bake as you normally would. This is perfect for batch cooking or planning meals ahead of time.
For more freezer-friendly chicken recipes, try this 3-Ingredient Chicken Nuggets Recipe.
What can I serve with chicken enchiladas?
Side dishes like Mexican rice, refried beans, and a fresh side salad complement chicken enchiladas perfectly. Add toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or salsa to elevate the dish even further. These sides balance the richness of the enchiladas while enhancing their flavor.
You might also want to try serving your enchiladas with this Chicken Thigh and Potato Recipe, which is an ideal accompaniment for chicken-based dishes.
Chicken enchiladas with Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup are a quick, easy, and delicious option for any meal. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can make a family-friendly dish that everyone will love. Customize the recipe to your liking and enjoy a comforting, flavorful dinner in no time.
For more meal inspiration, be sure to check out Campbell’s soup recipe collection.