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Enchiladas De Pollo Con Crema

By Jennifer Adams | April 05, 2026
Enchiladas De Pollo Con Crema
Enchiladas

Enchiladas De Pollo Con Crema

Prep30 min
Cook40 min
Total70 min
Serves6
Enchiladas De Pollo Con Crema
Creamy Chicken Enchiladas

I still remember the first time I tasted my grandmother's Enchiladas De Pollo Con Crema. It was a family gathering, and the aroma of roasted chiles and melting cheese filled the entire house. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and crunchy tortillas was love at first bite.

As a second-generation Mexican-American, I grew up surrounded by the vibrant flavors and traditions of my heritage. My grandmother, who learned to cook from her mother, would spend hours in the kitchen preparing meals that brought our family together. Her Enchiladas De Pollo Con Crema was one of those dishes that everyone looked forward to, and I'm excited to share her recipe with you.

This recipe is special because it's a true representation of Mexican home cooking. It's not about complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients; it's about simplicity, patience, and love. The key to making great Enchiladas De Pollo Con Crema is to use high-quality ingredients, like fresh chiles and homemade chicken broth, and to take the time to prepare each component with care.

Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting to explore Mexican cuisine, this recipe is perfect for you. It's a great dish to make for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or a potluck with friends. And the best part? It's incredibly versatile, so feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, meats, or vegetables to make it your own.

In this recipe, I'll guide you through the process of making Enchiladas De Pollo Con Crema from scratch. We'll start with the basics, like roasting chiles and cooking chicken, and then move on to assembling the enchiladas and making the creamy sauce. By the end of this article, you'll have all the knowledge and confidence you need to make this delicious dish a staple in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
  • The dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
  • The creamy sauce and melted cheese make it a crowd-pleaser.
  • You can customize the recipe with different types of cheese, meats, or vegetables.
  • The dish is versatile and can be served with a variety of sides, such as rice, beans, or salads.
  • The recipe makes a large batch, perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prep.
  • The dish can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use.

Why This Recipe Works

The secret to making great Enchiladas De Pollo Con Crema lies in the layers of flavor and texture. First, we roast the chiles to bring out their natural sweetness and depth. Then, we cook the chicken in a rich and aromatic broth, which adds moisture and flavor to the dish. The creamy sauce, made with a combination of heavy cream, cheese, and spices, ties everything together and adds a luxurious touch to the enchiladas.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of toasted tortillas. By lightly toasting the tortillas on a dry griddle or in the oven, we enhance their texture and flavor, making them more pliable and easier to roll. This step also helps to prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy or falling apart during the cooking process.

Finally, the key to making the creamy sauce is to use a combination of heavy cream and cheese. The heavy cream adds a rich and velvety texture, while the cheese provides a nice balance of flavor and creaminess. By cooking the sauce slowly and stirring constantly, we can create a smooth and creamy texture that coats the enchiladas perfectly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Enchiladas De Pollo Con Crema, you'll need a few key ingredients, including fresh chiles, chicken breast or thighs, heavy cream, and a variety of cheeses. You can find most of these ingredients at your local grocery store or Mexican market. When shopping for chiles, look for fresh, firm peppers with no signs of wrinkles or soft spots. For the chicken, choose boneless, skinless breast or thighs, depending on your preference.

  • 4 dried ancho chilesAncho chiles have a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a deep red color. You can substitute with guajillo or mulato chiles if needed.
  • 2 lbs (900g) chicken breast or thighs, boneless and skinlessYou can use either breast or thighs, depending on your preference. If using thighs, make sure to remove any excess fat or skin.
  • 1 large onion, dicedUse a sweet onion, such as Vidalia or Maui, for the best flavor.
  • 3 cloves garlic, mincedFresh garlic is essential for this recipe. You can mince it using a press or a chef's knife.
  • 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth, homemade or store-boughtUse a low-sodium broth to control the salt content of the dish. You can also make your own broth using chicken bones and vegetables.
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy creamHeavy cream adds a rich and creamy texture to the sauce. You can substitute with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative if needed.
  • 1/2 cup (120g) grated queso fresco or Monterey Jack cheeseQueso fresco has a mild, crumbly texture and a fresh flavor. You can substitute with Monterey Jack or Cheddar cheese if needed.
  • 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh cilantroFresh cilantro adds a bright, fresh flavor to the dish. You can substitute with parsley or basil if needed.
  • 1 tsp (5g) ground cuminCumin adds a warm, earthy flavor to the dish. Use freshly ground cumin for the best flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp (2g) paprikaPaprika adds a smoky, slightly sweet flavor to the dish. Use sweet or smoked paprika, depending on your preference.
  • Salt and pepper to tasteUse kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to season the dish to taste.
  • 8-10 corn tortillasUse fresh, pliable tortillas for the best results. You can also use flour tortillas if needed.
  • 2 tbsp (30g) vegetable oilUse a neutral oil, such as canola or grapeseed, to toast the tortillas and cook the onion and garlic.
Ingredients for Enchiladas De Pollo Con Crema

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or Dutch ovenComal or dry griddleChef's knifeCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsInstant-read thermometerWooden spoon or spatula

How to Make Enchiladas De Pollo Con Crema

  1. 1
    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. 2
    Roast the ancho chiles on a comal or dry griddle, turning frequently, until fragrant and slightly charred, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chiles from the heat and let them cool.
  3. 3
    Once the chiles have cooled, remove the stems and seeds, and place them in a blender or food processor with 1/4 cup (60ml) of the chicken broth. Blend until smooth, adding more broth as needed to achieve a thick, paste-like consistency.
  4. 4
    In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon (15g) of the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly browned, about 8-10 minutes.
  5. 5
    Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
  6. 6
    Add the chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat with the onion and garlic mixture. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  7. 7
    Add the remaining 3/4 cup (180ml) of chicken broth to the skillet, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has reduced slightly and the chicken is coated in the sauce, about 5-7 minutes.
  8. 8
    Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the spices are fragrant.
  9. 9
    In a separate saucepan, combine the heavy cream and grated cheese. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  10. 10
    To assemble the enchiladas, dip each tortilla in the creamy sauce, coating both sides evenly. Then, spoon some of the chicken mixture onto the center of the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges. Roll the tortilla up tightly and place it seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and chicken mixture.
  11. 11
    Pour the remaining creamy sauce over the rolled enchiladas, making sure they are all coated evenly. Sprinkle with additional cheese and cilantro, if desired.
  12. 12
    Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the top is lightly browned and the enchiladas are heated through.

Expert Tips

  • Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
  • Toast the tortillas before assembling the enchiladas to enhance their texture and flavor.
  • Don't overfill the tortillas, as this can make them difficult to roll and can cause them to break apart during cooking.
  • Use a variety of cheeses, such as queso fresco, Monterey Jack, and Cheddar, for a rich and creamy sauce.
  • Add some diced vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to the chicken mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
  • Experiment with different types of chiles, such as guajillo or mulato, for a unique flavor profile.
  • Make the creamy sauce ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use.
  • Assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them for later baking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using low-quality or stale ingredients, which can result in a dull or unpleasant flavor.
  • Overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry and tough.
  • Not toasting the tortillas, which can result in a soggy or unappetizing texture.
  • Using too much cheese, which can make the dish overly rich and heavy.
  • Not cooking the creamy sauce long enough, which can result in a thin or watery consistency.
  • Not covering the baking dish with foil during baking, which can result in a dry or overcooked top layer.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Add some diced ham or bacon to the chicken mixture for added smokiness.
  • Use different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, for a unique flavor profile.
  • Add some chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, to the creamy sauce for added freshness.
  • Use gluten-free tortillas for a gluten-free version of the dish.
  • Add some diced vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to the chicken mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
  • Use a spicy cheese, such as pepper jack, for an added kick of heat.
  • Make the dish vegetarian by substituting the chicken with roasted vegetables or beans.

What to Serve With Enchiladas De Pollo Con Crema

Enchiladas De Pollo Con Crema are a delicious and satisfying main dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Some popular options include Mexican rice, refried beans, roasted vegetables, and a simple green salad. You can also serve the enchiladas with some warm tortillas, sour cream, and salsa for a fun and interactive meal.

Mexican riceRefried beansRoasted vegetablesSimple green saladWarm tortillasSour creamSalsa

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Enchiladas De Pollo Con Crema can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use. To refrigerate, assemble the enchiladas and place them in a covered baking dish. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. To freeze, assemble the enchiladas and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer the frozen enchiladas to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen enchiladas can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the frozen enchiladas overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed.

When reheating the enchiladas, make sure to cover the baking dish with foil to prevent the top layer from drying out. You can also add some extra cheese or creamy sauce to the top of the enchiladas before baking for an extra-rich and creamy texture.

Enchiladas De Pollo Con Crema can also be made in individual portions, which can be refrigerated or frozen for later use. Simply assemble the enchiladas in individual baking dishes or ramekins, then refrigerate or freeze as directed. This is a great option for meal prep or for making a quick and easy lunch or dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of chiles should I use for this recipe?

You can use ancho, guajillo, or mulato chiles for this recipe, depending on your preference. Ancho chiles have a mild, slightly sweet flavor, while guajillo and mulato chiles have a slightly smokier flavor.

Can I substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative, such as almond milk or soy creamer. However, keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.

Can I make the creamy sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the creamy sauce ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. Simply reheat the sauce over low heat, stirring constantly, until it is smooth and creamy.

How do I prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy or falling apart during cooking?

To prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy or falling apart, make sure to toast them before assembling the enchiladas. You can also use a little bit of oil or cooking spray to coat the tortillas and prevent them from sticking to the baking dish.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free tortillas and being careful to avoid cross-contamination with gluten-containing ingredients.

How do I reheat the enchiladas without drying them out?

To reheat the enchiladas without drying them out, make sure to cover the baking dish with foil and heat the enchiladas over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also add some extra cheese or creamy sauce to the top of the enchiladas before reheating for an extra-rich and creamy texture.

Can I make this recipe in individual portions?

Yes, you can make this recipe in individual portions by assembling the enchiladas in individual baking dishes or ramekins. Simply refrigerate or freeze the individual portions as directed and reheat them in the oven or microwave when you're ready to eat.

How long can I store the enchiladas in the refrigerator or freezer?

You can store the enchiladas in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, make sure to thaw the frozen enchiladas overnight in the refrigerator and reheat them in the oven or microwave until hot and bubbly.

The Full Recipe
Recipe Card
Enchiladas De Pollo Con Crema

Enchiladas De Pollo Con Crema

Learn to make authentic Enchiladas De Pollo Con Crema, a delicious Mexican dish with shredded chicken, creamy sauce, and melted cheese, perfect for any occasion

Prep30 min
Cook40 min
Total70 min
Serves6
Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  • 4 dried ancho chiles
  • 2 lbs (900g) chicken breast or thighs, boneless and skinless
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth, homemade or store-bought
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup (120g) grated queso fresco or Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 tsp (5g) ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp (2g) paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8-10 corn tortillas
  • 2 tbsp (30g) vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Roast the ancho chiles on a comal or dry griddle, turning frequently, until fragrant and slightly charred, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chiles from the heat and let them cool.
  3. Once the chiles have cooled, remove the stems and seeds, and place them in a blender or food processor with 1/4 cup (60ml) of the chicken broth. Blend until smooth, adding more broth as needed to achieve a thick, paste-like consistency.
  4. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon (15g) of the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly browned, about 8-10 minutes.
  5. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
  6. Add the chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat with the onion and garlic mixture. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  7. Add the remaining 3/4 cup (180ml) of chicken broth to the skillet, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has reduced slightly and the chicken is coated in the sauce, about 5-7 minutes.
  8. Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the spices are fragrant.
  9. In a separate saucepan, combine the heavy cream and grated cheese. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  10. To assemble the enchiladas, dip each tortilla in the creamy sauce, coating both sides evenly. Then, spoon some of the chicken mixture onto the center of the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges. Roll the tortilla up tightly and place it seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and chicken mixture.
  11. Pour the remaining creamy sauce over the rolled enchiladas, making sure they are all coated evenly. Sprinkle with additional cheese and cilantro, if desired.
  12. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the top is lightly browned and the enchiladas are heated through.

Nutrition (per serving, approximate)

420Calories
35gProtein
25gCarbs
20gFat