Name: Cottage Cheese Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 1 cup cottage cheese; ½ cup sour cream; 1 tsp cumin; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese; 6–8 flour or corn tortillas; 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce; ½ cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese (for topping)

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If you’re craving a dinner that feels like a warm hug and packs a protein punch, you are going to adore this Cottage Cheese Chicken Enchiladas Recipe. Imagine tender, shredded chicken lovingly wrapped in soft tortillas, embraced by a creamy, tangy cottage cheese sauce, all baked to bubbly, cheesy perfection. It’s a fresh twist on a Mexican classic that brings comfort, flavor, and a delightful creaminess that will have you coming back for seconds. Whether you’re feeding the family or simply treating yourself, this dish hits all the right notes — easy to make, richly satisfying, and proudly homemade.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear rectangular glass tray on a white marbled surface holds three layered enchiladas. The bottom layer is made of folded tortillas, fully covered with a smooth red sauce. On top of the sauce sits a layer of pale yellow grated cheese that is spread evenly along the enchiladas. The enchiladas are neatly aligned, and the glass tray shows reflections and slight transparency. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering your ingredients for this dish is a breeze because each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the creamy cottage cheese to the zesty enchilada sauce, every element contributes to making this meal unforgettable.

2 cups cooked shredded chicken: Provides a hearty, protein-rich base full of tender, savory bites.
1 cup cottage cheese: Adds creamy texture and a subtle tang that elevates the entire filling.
½ cup sour cream: Enhances richness while keeping everything smooth and luscious.
1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese: Melts beautifully on top and inside the filling for gooey cheesiness.
1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce: Brings the signature bold, spicy flavor that ties the dish together.
6–8 flour or corn tortillas: The perfect vessels for wrapping all these wonderful flavors.
1 tsp cumin: Infuses a warm, earthy note common in Mexican cuisine.
½ tsp garlic powder: Adds depth and aromatic sweetness without overpowering.

How to Make Cottage Cheese Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Filling

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken with the cottage cheese, sour cream, half of the shredded cheese, cumin, and garlic powder. Mix everything together thoroughly so each bite will be bursting with creamy, spiced goodness.

Step 2: Fill and Roll Tortillas

Lay out your tortillas and spoon an even amount of the chicken and cottage cheese mixture onto each. Roll them up tightly, being careful not to overfill to avoid spills during baking. Place each rolled tortilla seam-side down in a baking dish, arranging them snugly so they hold their shape.

Step 3: Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour the entire can of enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, making sure they are fully coated for that signature saucy flavor. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top to create a golden, bubbly crust once baked.

Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly

Pop the dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, slightly browned, and the sauce is bubbling around the edges. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to let all those flavors settle beautifully.

How to Serve Cottage Cheese Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

The image shows a close-up of two layered enchiladas placed side by side on a white plate with a wavy edge. The top layer is melted cheese that is golden brown in some spots and slightly bubbly, covering a thick, rich red sauce that peeks through around the edges. Under the sauce, you can see the texture of soft tortillas wrapped around a filling that looks like ground meat mixed with sauce. The enchiladas look moist and slightly oily, sitting on a white marbled surface in soft natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Don’t be shy with your garnishes! Fresh avocado slices, a handful of cilantro, or spicy jalapeños all make fantastic toppings that add freshness, color, and lively flavor contrasts to the creamy enchiladas.

Side Dishes

Pair your enchiladas with a bright, crisp salad or comforting Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete meal. A side of roasted corn or a simple lime wedge can also add an extra dimension of taste and texture.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try baking individual enchiladas in ramekins for personal servings or assemble the filling as a layered casserole for easier serving at parties. You could even wrap them in foil for a portable lunch option that heats up beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover enchiladas keep wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store them in an airtight container to preserve their moisture and flavor. A quick reheat makes for an easy, delicious meal whenever you need it.

Freezing

This Cottage Cheese Chicken Enchiladas Recipe freezes well before baking. Assemble the filled tortillas and cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap before freezing. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if necessary.

Reheating

The best way to reheat enchiladas is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again. You can also microwave leftovers, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture and squeal-worthy creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat or nonfat cottage cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! Using low-fat or nonfat cottage cheese can lighten the dish without sacrificing too much creaminess, making it a fantastic option for a healthier take.

What type of chicken works best for these enchiladas?

Cooked, shredded chicken works perfectly—whether from a rotisserie, poached breasts, or leftover roasted chicken. Just make sure it’s well-seasoned and tender for the best flavor.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap out the flour tortillas for corn tortillas that are certified gluten-free to keep this dish safe and delicious for gluten-sensitive eaters.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

To turn this into a vegetarian dish, replace the chicken with hearty beans or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. The creaminess of the cottage cheese still makes it satisfyingly rich.

How spicy is the enchilada sauce in this recipe?

The spice level depends on your choice of enchilada sauce. You can go mild or choose a hotter variety to add more kick. Feel free to adjust toppings like jalapeños accordingly to suit your heat preference.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Cottage Cheese Chicken Enchiladas Recipe a spot in your regular meal rotation. It’s one of those dishes that feels both indulgent and nourishing, effortlessly combining comfort and flavor in every bite. Once you taste it, you’ll see how simple ingredients can come together to create something remarkable and heartfelt. Happy cooking and enjoy every creamy, cheesy, chicken-filled moment!

Cottage Cheese Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need