chicken hatch chile recipe

Written ByEmma Smyth Updated on
chicken hatch chile recipe
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The Best chicken hatch chile recipe

I’ve been making this chicken hatch chile recipe for years, and it’s one of those dishes that just never gets old. The first time I tried it, I was hooked—smoky, slightly spicy, and packed with flavor without being overly complicated. It’s the kind of meal that feels special but is simple enough to throw together on a weeknight, which is exactly why it’s a staple in our house. My kids love it too, even the picky ones, because the creaminess of the sauce balances out the heat just right. They’ll actually ask for seconds, which is always a win in my book. What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it over rice, in tacos, or even stuffed into a baked potato. It’s hearty enough for a family dinner but light enough that you don’t feel weighed down afterward. Plus, hatch chiles are loaded with vitamins A and C, and when you pair them with lean chicken, you’ve got a meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. It’s one of those recipes that checks all the boxes—easy, flavorful, and good for you. And honestly, that’s the kind of cooking I’m all about.
Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas

Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas

4.9 from 795 votes

A flavorful Southwestern dish featuring tender shredded chicken smothered in a rich green hatch chile sauce, wrapped in warm tortillas, and topped with melted cheese. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 cup hatch green chiles, diced (canned or fresh)
  • 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Green Chile Sauce
  • 2 cups hatch green chiles, roasted and peeled (or 1 (24 oz) can hatch green chile sauce)
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
For Assembly
  • 8 corn tortillas
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional, for garnish)

👨‍🍳Directions

  1. 1 Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2 In a large skillet, combine shredded chicken, diced hatch chiles, onion, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until heated through. Set aside.
  3. 3 In a saucepan, whisk together hatch green chiles, chicken broth, sour cream, flour, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat.
  4. 4 Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of green chile sauce on the bottom of the dish.
  5. 5 Warm the tortillas in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to make them pliable. Fill each tortilla with about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
  6. 6 Pour the remaining green chile sauce over the enchiladas, spreading evenly. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
  7. 7 Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. 8 Garnish with fresh cilantro and diced tomatoes before serving. Enjoy!

🔧Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking dish (9×13-inch)
  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Cutting board
  • Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 11g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 850mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: For extra flavor, roast fresh hatch chiles at 400°F for 20 minutes before using. You can also substitute flour tortillas for corn tortillas if preferred. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas Works

This chicken hatch chile recipe is one of those reliable dishes that always delivers, no matter the occasion. It’s flavorful enough to impress at a family gathering but simple enough to make any weeknight feel special. The blend of smoky chiles and tender chicken works every time, and it’s a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas

1. What is hatch chile, and can I substitute it with another type of chile?

Hatch chiles are a variety of green chile peppers grown in the Hatch Valley of New Mexico, known for their mild to medium heat and smoky, slightly sweet flavor. If you can’t find Hatch chiles, you can substitute them with Anaheim, poblano, or even jalapeño peppers for a different heat level. For a smokier flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder to the dish.

2. How spicy is the chicken hatch chile recipe?

The spice level depends on the type of Hatch chiles used—mild, medium, or hot. Most recipes use mild or medium Hatch chiles, which provide a gentle heat with rich flavor. If you prefer less spice, remove the seeds and membranes from the chiles before cooking. For extra heat, leave the seeds in or add a dash of cayenne pepper.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time or freeze it?

Yes! This dish reheats well and can be made 1–2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To freeze, let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. It will keep for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to restore creaminess.

4. What’s the best way to roast Hatch chiles for this recipe?

Roasting Hatch chiles enhances their smoky flavor. You can roast them over an open flame (gas stove or grill), under a broiler, or in the oven at 425°F (220°C) until charred, turning occasionally. Once blistered, place them in a bowl covered with plastic wrap or a damp towel to steam for 10–15 minutes. This makes peeling easier. Remove the skins, stems, and seeds before chopping.

5. What sides pair well with chicken hatch chile?

This creamy, flavorful dish pairs well with: – Rice or cilantro-lime rice (to soak up the sauce) – Warm tortillas or cornbread (for scooping) – Black beans or refried beans (for a hearty meal) – A simple green salad or roasted vegetables (to balance the richness) – Queso fresco or avocado slices (for freshness and texture)

Hi, I’m Emma, the creator of Tasty Chicken Recipes, where I share my favorite chicken dishes and simple recipes anyone can make at home. I love experimenting with flavors and helping fellow food lovers cook delicious chicken meals with ease. 🍗✨

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