Looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that will keep you full without breaking the calorie bank? Look no further than these Chicken Enchiladas with Cheese Sauce & Rice, which clock in at just 270 calories per serving.

These enchiladas are packed with protein, thanks to the lean chicken filling, and the cheese sauce and rice make for a satisfying carb fix. Plus, they're loaded with flavor, making them a go-to dinner recipe for anyone who loves bold flavors that don't skimp on nutrition.

In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about making these delicious enchiladas at home, from the ingredient list to the preparation method and more.

Ingredients list of Chicken Enchiladas with Cheese Sauce & Rice

To make these chicken enchiladas, you'll need:

• 8 small tortillas
• 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup diced green chilies
• 1/4 cup diced onion
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 1 tsp. chili powder
• 1/2 tsp. cumin
• salt and pepper, to taste

Note that you can adjust the seasoning and spice level to your liking, by adding more or less chili powder or cumin depending on your preferences.

Calories breakdown of Chicken Enchiladas with Cheese Sauce & Rice

Each serving of this recipe (1 enchilada) contains approximately:

• 270 calories
• 23 grams of protein
• 24 grams of carbohydrates
• 9 grams of fat

Note that these values may vary based on the exact ingredients and brands you use, so be sure to double-check your nutrition labels if needed.

Protein content in Chicken Enchiladas with Cheese Sauce & Rice

With 23 grams of protein per serving, these Chicken Enchiladas with Cheese Sauce & Rice are a great way to fuel your body with the macronutrient it needs to build and repair muscle tissue. If you're an athlete or gym-goer looking to up your protein intake, you can bulk up the chicken filling even more by adding more chicken breast to the recipe or using a higher-protein tortilla option. Remember that protein is crucial for recovery and growth, especially after a workout, so don't be afraid to add more protein-rich foods to your meals to meet your daily needs.

Carbohydrates content in Chicken Enchiladas with Cheese Sauce & Rice

With 24 grams of carbs per serving, these Chicken Enchiladas with Cheese Sauce & Rice are a great source of complex carbohydrates that can help fuel your body during activity and keep you feeling full and satisfied. If you're looking to cut back on carbs, consider using a low-carb tortilla option or reducing the amount of rice you add to the recipe. Remember that carbohydrates are not the enemy, and are an essential macronutrient for overall health and performance. Choose whole-food sources of carbs, like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, to get the most nutritional bang for your buck.

Fats content in Chicken Enchiladas with Cheese Sauce & Rice

With 9 grams of fat per serving, these Chicken Enchiladas with Cheese Sauce & Rice are a moderate-fat meal that can help keep you feeling full and satisfied. If you're looking to reduce your fat intake, consider using a lower-fat cheese option or reducing the amount of cheese you add to the recipe. Remember that dietary fat is not the enemy, and is actually an essential macronutrient for overall health and wellness. Choose healthy sources of fat, like avocados, nuts, and fish, to give your body the nourishment it needs.

Benefits of eating Chicken Enchiladas with Cheese Sauce & Rice

Besides the delicious flavor and satisfying texture, there are plenty of benefits to eating Chicken Enchiladas with Cheese Sauce & Rice.

• Packed with protein, these enchiladas can help support muscle growth and repair.
• Loaded with complex carbs, they can help sustain energy levels and keep you feeling full and satisfied.
• Rich in flavor, they can be a satisfying, feel-good meal for days when you need a little extra comfort.

Note that while these enchiladas are a nutritious and balanced meal on their own, you can always pair them with additional veggies or a side salad to boost the nutrient density of your meal.

Preparation method of Chicken Enchiladas with Cheese Sauce & Rice

To make these Chicken Enchiladas with Cheese Sauce & Rice, follow these steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the cooked chicken, tomato sauce, green chilies, onion, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
3. Lay out a tortilla, and add a spoonful of the chicken mixture to the center. Top with a spoonful of cooked rice and a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
4. Roll the tortilla up tightly, and place it seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling, until you have 8 enchiladas in the dish.
5. Pour the cheese sauce over the top of the enchiladas, and sprinkle with additional shredded cheese, if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the enchiladas are heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and avocado, if desired.

Note that you can adjust the seasoning and spice level to your liking, by adding more or less chili powder or cumin depending on your preferences.

Tips for making the perfect Chicken Enchiladas with Cheese Sauce & Rice

Here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind when making these Chicken Enchiladas with Cheese Sauce & Rice:

• Be sure to use a baking dish that's the right size for your enchiladas. You don't want them to be too crowded, or they won't cook evenly.
• Consider using a rotisserie chicken to save time and effort when making this recipe.
• If you're short on time, consider using a store-bought enchilada sauce instead of making your own cheese sauce.
• Don't skip the garnish! Fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and avocado can take this dish to the next level in terms of flavor and nutrition.

Remember that cooking is an art, not a science, and you can always adjust the recipe to suit your preferences and needs.

Different variations of Chicken Enchiladas with Cheese Sauce & Rice

Looking to mix things up with this recipe? Here are some different variations to try:

• Swap the chicken for ground beef or turkey for a different flavor and texture.
• Add more veggies, like diced bell peppers, zucchini, or squash, to the filling to sneak in additional nutrients.
• Use a vegan or plant-based cheese substitute if you're lactose intolerant or avoiding dairy.

Remember that you can always get creative in the kitchen and try new things to keep your meals interesting and delicious!

Pairing suggestions for Chicken Enchiladas with Cheese Sauce & Rice

Wondering what to pair with these Chicken Enchiladas with Cheese Sauce & Rice? Here are some suggestions:

• A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing can help balance the richness of the cheese sauce and rice.
• Serve with fresh, sliced avocado or guacamole for a refreshing and nutritious addition.
• Pair with a crisp, light beer or a spicy margarita for a balanced and flavorful meal.

Remember that pairing food and drinks is all about balance and flavor, so choose beverages and sides that complement the flavors in the dish.