Low-Carb Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

The Magic Low-Carb Chicken Enchiladas Recipe for Taco Night

Creamy, cheesy enchiladas can totally hit the spot when you’re craving Mexican-inspired comfort food with a low-carb chicken enchiladas recipe.

Zesty spices dance through tender shredded chicken, wrapped in soft tortilla alternatives that keep carbs in check.

Each bite brings rich, bold flavors that make traditional enchiladas feel like a distant memory.

The magic happens with smart ingredient swaps that deliver maximum taste without excess carbohydrates.

Melted cheese blankets the chicken, creating a mouthwatering layer of deliciousness that satisfies deeply.

Protein-packed and full of flavor, these enchiladas prove healthy eating never means sacrificing deliciousness.

Prepare to fall in love with a guilt-free version of a classic Mexican favorite that will become a regular in your meal rotation.

Ways to Switch Up Your Chicken Enchiladas

  • Cauliflower Tortilla Swap: Replace low-carb tortillas with homemade cauliflower tortillas for an even lower-carb option that adds extra vegetables to the dish.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute cottage cheese with silken tofu and use dairy-free cheese alternatives to make the recipe completely dairy-free and suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals.
  • Keto-Friendly Version: Use almond flour or coconut flour tortillas instead of traditional low-carb tortillas, and increase the fat content by adding cream cheese to the filling for a more keto-compliant meal.
  • Vegetarian Protein Swap: Replace chicken with seasoned black beans, roasted vegetables, or plant-based chicken alternatives to create a meat-free version of the enchiladas that maintains the same flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions for Low-Carb Chicken Enchiladas

  • Fresh Cilantro Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the enchiladas for a burst of bright, herbal flavor that cuts through the richness and adds a pop of green color to the dish.
  • Creamy Cool Topping: Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream on the side, which provides a tangy contrast and helps balance the spicy, warm flavors of the enchiladas.
  • Zesty Lime Finish: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top just before serving to brighten the entire dish and add a refreshing citrus note that complements the chicken and cheese.
  • Side Salad Companion: Pair with a crisp mixed green salad or a simple cabbage slaw to create a complete meal that offers a light, crunchy contrast to the warm, cheesy enchiladas.

Keeping Chicken Enchiladas Fresh Meals

  • Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep them flat to maintain their shape, covering completely with plastic wrap or lid. Refrigerated enchiladas stay fresh for 3-4 days.
  • Wrap individual enchiladas tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Frozen enchiladas maintain quality for up to 2 months.
  • Place individual enchiladas on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking temperature halfway through. Add a splash of enchilada sauce to restore moisture.

FAQs

  • Why use cottage cheese in the filling?

Cottage cheese adds incredible creaminess and protein to the enchiladas while keeping the filling moist. It’s a healthier alternative that provides extra nutrition without compromising taste.

  • Can I use a different type of tortilla?

Low-carb tortillas work best for this recipe. Regular flour or corn tortillas will increase the carb count. If you’re strict about low-carb, look for specific low-carb or keto-friendly tortilla options.

  • How spicy are these enchiladas?

The green chilis and taco seasoning provide a mild heat level. If you want less spice, use only half a can of green chilis. For more heat, add extra taco seasoning or include some diced jalapeños in the filling.

Why Low-Carb Chicken Enchiladas Belong on Your Table

  • Switch up ingredients like different proteins or low-carb tortillas to match your dietary needs and taste preferences without compromising the recipe's core deliciousness.
  • Loaded with lean chicken and cottage cheese, this dish delivers a nutritious punch that keeps you satisfied and supports muscle health without feeling heavy.
  • Utilize rotisserie chicken and simple seasonings to create a restaurant-quality meal in your kitchen with minimal chopping and preparation steps.
  • Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, these low-carb enchiladas offer a crowd-pleasing option that satisfies diverse dietary needs while tasting incredibly indulgent.

All the Ingredients for Low-Carb Chicken Enchiladas

Protein Base:
  • Rotisserie Chicken: Provides the main protein and savory flavor for the enchiladas.
  • Cottage Cheese: Adds creaminess, extra protein, and helps keep the filling moist.
Tortilla and Cheese:
  • Low-Carb Tortillas: Creates the base for rolling the enchiladas while keeping the dish low in carbohydrates.
  • Mexican Cheese: Offers a melty, rich topping and adds additional flavor to the dish.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Green Chilis, Taco Seasoning, Salt: Bring depth, tang, and balanced seasoning to the chicken filling.
  • Enchilada Sauce: Provides moisture and traditional enchilada flavor to the dish.
Additional Ingredients:
  • Cooking Spray: Helps prevent sticking in the baking dish.
  • Aluminum Foil: Used for covering during initial baking to trap moisture.
Optional Toppings:
  • Cilantro, Avocado, Greek Yogurt, Lime Juice: Can be added for extra freshness and flavor complexity.

Kitchen Tools for Making Chicken Enchiladas

  • Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining the chicken filling ingredients thoroughly and ensuring even flavor distribution.
  • Baking Dish (9×13 inch): Perfect for holding and baking the enchiladas in a single layer.
  • Spoon or Pastry Brush: Helps spread sauce evenly over the enchiladas.
  • Aluminum Foil: Covers the dish during initial baking to retain moisture.
  • Measuring Cups: Precise for portioning chicken mixture and sauce.
  • Cutting Surface: Provides space for assembling and rolling enchiladas.
  • Sharp Knife: Optional for chopping additional garnishes like cilantro.

How to Make Low-Carb Chicken Enchiladas Effortlessly

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350F.

Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly spray it with cooking spray.

Pour enchilada sauce on the bottom of the dish, creating a thin layer that will keep the tortillas juicy and flavorful.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine:
  • Shredded rotisserie chicken
  • Cottage cheese
  • Diced green chilis
  • Taco seasoning

Stir everything together until well blended.

The cottage cheese adds a creamy texture that makes the filling extra delicious.

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed.

Step 3: Roll the Enchiladas

Spread out low-carb tortillas on a clean surface.

Scoop chicken mixture down the center of each tortilla.

Sprinkle a bit of Mexican cheese over the filling.

Carefully roll each tortilla, tucking in the sides.

Place the rolled enchiladas seam-side down in the baking dish, creating a single layer.

Step 4: Cover with Sauce and Cheese

Drizzle the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas.

Use a spoon to spread the sauce evenly, ensuring complete coverage.

Generously sprinkle Mexican cheese on top, creating a melty, golden blanket.

Step 5: Bake with Care

Cover the dish with aluminum foil, keeping it slightly raised above the cheese.

Bake for 15 minutes.

Remove the foil and return to the oven for another 10 minutes.

This two-stage baking helps melt the cheese perfectly and creates those irresistible golden-brown spots.

Step 6: Finish and Garnish

Let the enchiladas rest for 5 minutes after baking.

This helps the filling set and makes serving easier.

Transfer to plates and add optional toppings.

Pro Tips for the Best Low-Carb Chicken Enchiladas

  • Choose low-carb tortillas made from almond or coconut flour to keep the dish keto-friendly and reduce overall carbohydrate content.
  • Use cottage cheese as a sneaky protein addition that adds creaminess without extra calories, making the filling more nutritious and satisfying.
  • Adjust green chili quantity based on heat preference – use half the can for mild flavor or full amount for extra zesty enchiladas.
  • Always cover with foil during initial baking to lock in moisture, ensuring enchiladas stay tender and prevent cheese from burning.
  • Prepare enchiladas ahead of time and refrigerate before baking, which allows flavors to meld and makes weeknight dinners faster and easier.
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Low-Carb Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

Low-Carb Chicken Enchiladas Recipe


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4.5 from 19 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Mexican-inspired low-carb chicken enchiladas deliver a perfect balance of spicy and savory flavors. Cheesy, zesty tortillas wrapped around tender chicken create a satisfying meal you’ll want to savor again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 2.5 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded or chopped
  • 1 cup Mexican cheese blend, finely shredded

Seasonings and Additions:

  • 1.5 tablespoons taco seasoning
  • 1 can (4 ounces / 113 grams) diced green chilis
  • Salt, to taste

Binding and Wrapping:

  • 0.75 cup low-fat (2% milkfat) cottage cheese
  • 6 low-carb tortillas
  • 0.75 cup enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce across the bottom to prevent drying and enhance flavor.
  2. In a large bowl, blend shredded rotisserie chicken, cottage cheese, green chilis, and taco seasoning. Mix thoroughly, ensuring even distribution of ingredients. Adjust seasoning with salt to taste.
  3. Arrange low-carb tortillas on a clean surface. Distribute chicken mixture evenly down the center of each tortilla. Sprinkle Mexican cheese over the filling.
  4. Carefully roll each tortilla, tucking sides if possible. Position rolled enchiladas seam-side down in the prepared baking dish, creating a single layer.
  5. Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, ensuring complete coverage. Generously top with additional Mexican cheese for a melty finish.
  6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes until cheese turns golden and bubbly.
  7. Allow enchiladas to rest for 5 minutes after removing from oven. Serve with optional garnishes like fresh cilantro, diced avocado, Greek yogurt, or a lime wedge for added freshness.

Notes

  • Use high-quality low-carb tortillas that won’t break during rolling, ensuring a smooth enchilada assembly process.
  • Swap cottage cheese with Greek yogurt or ricotta for different protein and texture variations while maintaining low-carb profile.
  • Customize heat levels by adjusting green chili quantity or incorporating jalapeños for spice enthusiasts.
  • Prepare extra filling to repurpose as a protein-packed salad topping or stuffing for bell peppers, maximizing ingredient versatility.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg
Clara Thompson

Clara Thompson

Recipe Developer & Food Educator

Expertise

Plant-based and vegetarian recipe development, Nutritional analysis and meal planning, Culinary education and workshop facilitation, Content writing with a focus on healthy living​

Education

Diploma in Culinary Arts, Mt. San Jacinto College, CA
Focus: Comprehensive culinary training with an emphasis on sustainable cooking practices.

Certificate in Nutrition and Healthy Living, Cornell University (Online Program)
Focus: Understanding the principles of nutrition to create balanced and health-conscious recipes.


Clara lives where fresh ideas and fresh ingredients meet. She pairs her culinary know-how with her passion for healthy, planet-friendly cooking.
For Clara, good food should taste great, nourish your body, and feel easy to make. Her recipes highlight whole foods, colorful produce, and a deep respect for seasonal eating.

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