Hatch green chile enchiladas have a special place in my heart, and I’m so excited to share this recipe with you. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a taste of home for me, reminiscent of cozy evenings spent with family. The aroma of roasted Hatch chiles filling the kitchen is simply intoxicating, promising a truly delicious experience. When I first tried making authentic Hatch green chile enchiladas myself, I was nervous, but the result was incredible – tender chicken, gooey cheese, all wrapped in that signature smoky, slightly spicy flavor that only New Mexico green chiles can deliver. These Hatch New Mexico green chile enchiladas are a journey for your taste buds. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Hatch Green Chile Enchiladas
Get ready to fall in love with these incredible enchiladas. They’re truly something special!
- The flavor is out of this world – that signature smoky, slightly spicy kick from the Hatch chiles is unmatched.
- You’ll love how surprisingly quick this recipe is, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- These easy Hatch green chile enchiladas are packed with protein from the chicken and cheese, keeping you satisfied.
- It’s a budget-friendly meal that doesn’t skimp on taste or quality.
- The whole family will adore these, making them a fantastic kid-friendly option.
- The combination of tender chicken, melty cheese, and savory sauce is pure comfort food.
- These are truly easy Hatch green chile enchiladas that deliver big on flavor without a lot of fuss.
- Enjoy a taste of authentic New Mexican cuisine right in your own kitchen!
Ingredients for Hatch Green Chile Enchiladas
Gathering these ingredients is the first step to creating truly delicious Hatch enchiladas. The star here is, of course, the Hatch chiles themselves, offering a unique smoky flavor you just can’t get anywhere else. We’ll be using 1½ cups roasted Hatch green chiles, peeled and chopped – roasting them beforehand brings out their sweetness. For the filling, you’ll need 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken, which makes these a fantastic way to use up leftovers. We’re also using 12 corn tortillas, which are essential for that authentic texture in these Hatch green chile enchiladas with corn tortillas. For that cheesy goodness, grab 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack) – a blend is always great! You’ll also need 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce as a base, and a little olive oil or cooking spray for prepping your dish. Don’t forget salt and pepper to taste, and optional garnishes like 1 cup sour cream and chopped fresh cilantro.
How to Make Hatch Green Chile Enchiladas
Let’s dive into creating these incredible, home-style Hatch green chile enchiladas! It’s a straightforward process that guarantees a delicious result.
- Step 1: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures everything gets bubbly and heated through perfectly.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken with the 1½ cups roasted Hatch green chiles, peeled and chopped. I like to add 1 cup of shredded cheese (from the 2 cups total) to the filling, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything gently until it’s just combined.
- Step 3: Now, we need to soften those 12 corn tortillas so they roll without cracking. You can do this by briefly heating them in a skillet with a little olive oil for about 10–15 seconds per side, or you can wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave them for 30 seconds. This step is crucial for truly home-style Hatch green chile enchiladas.
- Step 4: Spread a thin layer of your 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. This prevents the bottom enchiladas from sticking and adds a moist base.
- Step 5: Take one softened tortilla, place about 2–3 tablespoons of the chicken and Hatch chile mixture along one edge, and then roll it up tightly.
- Step 6: Place the rolled enchilada seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling. Arranging them snugly helps them hold their shape.
- Step 7: Once all your enchiladas are nestled in the dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top. Make sure every enchilada gets a good coating – this is key to that rich flavor in our home-style Hatch green chile enchiladas.
- Step 8: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the sauce. The cheese will melt into a gooey, delicious blanket.
- Step 9: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes. You’ll start to smell that amazing Hatch chile aroma filling your kitchen!
- Step 10: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbling beautifully.
- Step 11: Let your Hatch green chile enchiladas cool for about 5–10 minutes before garnishing. This allows them to set a bit, making them easier to serve.
- Step 12: Garnish with optional sour cream and chopped fresh cilantro. Serve your delicious Hatch green chile enchiladas warm and enjoy!
Pro Tips for the Best Hatch Green Chile Enchiladas
Want to elevate your enchilada game? These tips will ensure your Hatch green chile enchiladas are absolutely perfect every time.
- Always use good quality, roasted Hatch chiles. If you can’t roast them yourself, look for pre-roasted ones in the produce section or canned versions specifically labeled “roasted.”
- Don’t skip softening your corn tortillas! This prevents them from breaking when you roll them, ensuring beautiful presentation for your home-style Hatch green chile enchiladas.
- For extra flavor, mix a little of the enchilada sauce into your chicken and cheese filling. It really boosts the overall taste of your Hatch enchiladas.
- Let the enchiladas rest for a few minutes after they come out of the oven. This helps the cheese set and makes them easier to serve without falling apart.
What’s the secret to perfect Hatch Green Chile Enchiladas?
The secret is in the quality of the Hatch chiles and a balanced sauce. For the best Hatch green chile enchilada sauce, I like to use a combination of roasted chiles and a good quality red enchilada sauce, with a touch of chicken broth for depth. Learn more about the history of enchiladas.
Can I make Hatch Green Chile Enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes, you absolutely can! Assemble the enchiladas completely, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re coming straight from the fridge.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Hatch Green Chile Enchiladas?
A common pitfall is using stale or dry corn tortillas – always soften them first! Another mistake is over-filling the tortillas, which can cause them to burst. Fill them just enough so you can roll them snugly for perfect Hatch green chile enchiladas.
Best Ways to Serve Hatch Green Chile Enchiladas
These Hatch green chile enchiladas are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of sides. For a truly satisfying meal, I love serving them with a dollop of cool sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, as mentioned in the recipe. They also go wonderfully with a side of Mexican rice or some simple refried beans. If you’re looking to enhance that cheesy goodness, think about serving your cheesy Hatch green chile enchiladas alongside a fresh, crisp salad with a lime vinaigrette. For a heartier spread, consider adding some seasoned ground beef or pork carnitas. These home-style enchiladas are a crowd-pleaser on their own, but these complementary dishes truly make them shine. You might also enjoy these easy chicken recipes.
Nutrition Facts for Hatch Green Chile Enchiladas
Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving for these delicious Hatch green chile enchiladas. This recipe is designed to be a satisfying main course.
- Calories: 375 kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on nutritional tracking, you can refer to resources like the USDA FoodData Central.
How to Store and Reheat Hatch Green Chile Enchiladas
Properly storing and reheating your delicious Hatch green chile enchiladas is key to enjoying them later. Once they’ve cooled down slightly after baking, I like to store any leftovers in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you’re planning further ahead, these enchiladas also freeze beautifully! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze them for up to 3 months. This makes for incredibly quick Hatch green chile enchiladas whenever a craving strikes. Check out these freezer-friendly meals for more ideas.
To reheat, you have a few options. For refrigerated enchiladas, you can pop them in the microwave for a minute or two until heated through, or reheat them in a toaster oven or a regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight first. If you’re in a real hurry, you can reheat them from frozen in the microwave, but be sure to cover them to prevent splattering. Either way, you’ll have tasty Hatch green chile enchiladas ready in no time!
Frequently Asked Questions About Hatch Green Chile Enchiladas
What makes Hatch green chile enchiladas unique?
The star of the show is the Hatch chile itself, grown only in Hatch, New Mexico. These chiles offer a distinctive smoky, slightly sweet, and mildly spicy flavor profile unlike any other green chile. This unique taste is what truly defines these authentic Hatch green chile enchiladas.
Can I make these Hatch green chile enchiladas vegetarian?
Absolutely! It’s easy to make delicious vegetarian Hatch green chile enchiladas. Simply swap the shredded chicken for a can of drained black beans, pinto beans, or even some sautéed mushrooms and corn. This makes for a hearty and satisfying meat-free meal. Try these vegetarian dinner ideas.
How can I adjust the spice level for spicy Hatch green chile enchiladas?
For those who love a kick, you can easily make your Hatch green chile enchiladas spicier. Add a minced jalapeño or serrano pepper to the chicken filling. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce or serve with a side of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
What is the best type of cheese for Hatch green chile enchiladas?
A blend of cheeses works wonderfully. Monterey Jack melts beautifully and offers a mild, creamy flavor that complements the chiles. Sharp cheddar adds a bit more tang. For extra cheesy Hatch green chile enchiladas, try a mix of both, or even add a bit of pepper jack for an extra spicy kick!
Variations of Hatch Green Chile Enchiladas You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered this classic recipe, don’t be afraid to get creative! There are so many delicious ways to switch up your Hatch green chile enchiladas. For a fantastic meatless option, try making vegetarian Hatch green chile enchiladas by substituting the chicken with black beans, pinto beans, or even some sautéed sweet potatoes and corn. If you’re looking for a different cooking method, consider grilling the assembled enchiladas for a smoky char, or even making them in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation. For a flavor twist, try adding a spoonful of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the filling for a smoky heat, or incorporate some roasted poblanos alongside the Hatch chiles for added depth. These variations ensure you can always enjoy a fresh take on this beloved dish. Explore more Mexican recipes for inspiration.
Print
Hatch Green Chile Enchiladas: 12 Beloved Recipes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy these easy Hatch green chile enchiladas featuring tender shredded chicken, melty cheese, and the unique smoky flavor of authentic Hatch green chiles. This home-style recipe is perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1½ cups roasted Hatch green chiles, peeled and chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 1 cup sour cream, for garnish (optional)
- Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Olive oil or cooking spray
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine shredded chicken, chopped Hatch green chiles, 1 cup of shredded cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Soften corn tortillas by briefly heating them in a skillet for 10–15 seconds per side or microwaving them wrapped in a damp paper towel for 30 seconds.
- Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Place 2–3 tablespoons of the chicken and chile mixture along one edge of each tortilla.
- Roll tightly and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Once all enchiladas are arranged, pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top.
- Sprinkle with the rest of the shredded cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20–25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Let cool slightly before garnishing with sour cream and cilantro.
- Serve your Hatch green chile enchiladas warm.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken with beans or beef for a different protein.
- For a spicier kick, add some diced jalapeños to the filling.
- If you prefer a milder flavor, use fewer Hatch green chiles or choose a mild variety.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: New Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 enchilada
- Calories: 375 kcal
Keywords: Hatch Green Chile Enchiladas, Hatch chile enchilada recipe, Authentic Hatch green chile enchiladas, Easy Hatch green chile enchiladas, Best Hatch green chile enchilada sauce, How to make Hatch green chile enchiladas, Green chile chicken enchiladas Hatch, Spicy Hatch green chile enchiladas, Home style Hatch green chile enchiladas, Hatch chile verde enchiladas, Homemade Hatch green chile enchiladas, Quick Hatch green chile enchiladas, What are Hatch green chile enchiladas, Hatch New Mexico green chile enchiladas, Cheesy Hatch green chile enchiladas, Vegetarian Hatch green chile enchiladas, Hatch green chile enchiladas with corn tortillas, Mild Hatch green chile enchiladas, Kid friendly Hatch green chile enchiladas, Hatch green chile enchiladas with pork
Leave a Reply