Chicken Enchilada Recipe
Healthy Chicken Enchiladas
Indulge in a nutritious and flavorful meal with these Healthy Chicken Enchiladas.
Made with tender, shredded chicken breast, whole wheat tortillas, and a homemade enchilada sauce, this dish offers a lighter twist on a classic favorite. Packed with fresh vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and spinach, these enchiladas are both delicious and wholesome. The use of Greek yogurt adds a creamy texture without the added calories, making this recipe perfect for those looking to enjoy a healthy yet satisfying meal.
Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, these Healthy Chicken Enchiladas are sure to become a new favorite.
Health Benefits of Healthy Chicken Enchiladas
These Healthy Chicken Enchiladas are not just delicious, but they also offer a range of health benefits that make them an excellent addition to your diet. Here’s a closer look at the nutritious ingredients and their benefits:
Chicken Breast: A lean source of protein, chicken breast helps build and repair muscle tissue, supports immune function, and keeps you feeling full and satisfied.
Whole Wheat Tortillas: Unlike regular flour tortillas, whole wheat tortillas provide more fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. They also offer additional nutrients such as B vitamins and minerals.
Fresh Vegetables: Bell peppers, onions, and spinach are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Bell peppers provide a high dose of vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and promotes healthy skin. Onions offer anti-inflammatory properties and are a good source of vitamin C and fiber. Spinach is packed with iron, calcium, and magnesium, supporting bone health and energy production.
Greek Yogurt: This versatile ingredient is a healthier alternative to sour cream, adding creaminess to the dish while providing probiotics, calcium, and protein. Greek yogurt supports digestive health and helps maintain strong bones.
Homemade Enchilada Sauce: By making your own enchilada sauce, you can control the ingredients and avoid added sugars and preservatives found in store-bought versions. Using fresh tomatoes and spices ensures a rich flavor and additional nutrients.
By combining these wholesome ingredients, Healthy Chicken Enchiladas offer a balanced meal that supports overall health. The high protein content aids in muscle repair and growth, while the fiber from the vegetables and whole wheat tortillas promotes healthy digestion. The vitamins and minerals from the fresh ingredients help boost the immune system, support bone health, and provide sustained energy throughout the day. Enjoying these enchiladas as part of a balanced diet can contribute to a healthier lifestyle while satisfying your taste buds.
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Healthy Chicken Enchiladas
Equipment
- Baking dish
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast shredded
- 8 whole wheat tortillas
- 1 cup bell peppers diced
- 1 cup onion diced
- 2 cups spinach chopped
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded low-fat cheese
- 1 can black beans rinsed and drained
- 2 cups homemade enchilada sauce recipe below
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Homemade Enchilada Sauce:
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Enchilada Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, combine tomato sauce, chicken broth, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, paprika, and salt.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until slightly thickened. Set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced bell peppers, onions, and minced garlic. Sauté until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the Enchiladas:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, black beans, sautéed vegetables, and 1 cup of enchilada sauce. Mix well.
- Fill each whole wheat tortilla with the chicken and vegetable mixture, then roll tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas. Spread Greek yogurt over the top and sprinkle with shredded low-fat cheese.
- Bake the Enchiladas:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired.
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