The humble rotisserie chicken from Costco is a weeknight hero. It’s juicy, flavorful, and practically begs to be repurposed into countless delicious meals. But sometimes, even the most dependable MVP needs a new play in its playbook. Enter the Costco Rotisserie Chicken Enchiladas, a dish that elevates the leftover bird to superstar status, packing bold Mexican flavors into every cheesy, melty bite.
Forget bland, grocery-store enchiladas drowning in processed sauce. This recipe is a vibrant fiesta of fresh ingredients and clever substitutions, all while maximizing the life of your rotisserie chicken.
Step 1: The Savory Shred
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Start by shredding the leftover chicken, discarding any skin or bones. In a large bowl, combine the chicken with a generous handful of chopped red onion, a couple of cloves of minced garlic, and a vibrant handful of chopped cilantro. Season with cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, a pinch of cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy!), and salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy with the spices – this is where the flavor fiesta begins!
Step 2: Tortilla Transformation
Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat. Warm your tortillas one at a time, making them pliable without getting crispy. Spread a spoonful of your seasoned chicken mixture across each tortilla, then sprinkle with a generous handful of shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Roll up the tortillas tightly, seam-side down.
Step 3: Sauce Sensation
Now comes the magic touch: the sauce. Instead of relying on store-bought options, we’re going homemade using…you guessed it, leftover rotisserie chicken drippings! In a saucepan, melt some butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the drippings, chicken broth, a can of diced tomatoes (fire-roasted for extra smokiness!), and a spoonful of tomato paste. Season with oregano, chili powder, and a pinch of sugar. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Enchilada Enchantment
Pour a thin layer of sauce into the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange your rolled enchiladas in a single layer, seam-side down. Pour the remaining sauce over the top, making sure to coat everything evenly. Sprinkle with more cheese and a final flourish of chopped cilantro.
Step 5: Oven Fiesta Time!
Bake your enchilada masterpiece for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, then garnish with a dollop of sour cream, fresh avocado slices, and a sprinkle of lime wedges for that extra zing.
Bonus Round: Flavor Fiesta Variations
This recipe is just a jumping-off point for your own culinary creativity. Want to kick up the heat? Add a few chopped jalapeños to the chicken mixture. Craving some smokiness? Swap the Monterey Jack for chipotle cheddar. Feeling adventurous? Add a dollop of black bean salsa or crumbled queso fresco to each enchilada before rolling.
With their vibrant flavors, cheesy goodness, and budget-friendly appeal, Costco Rotisserie Chicken Calorie and nutrition facts for Costco rotisserie chicken – CalorieTarget Enchiladas are sure to become a weeknight staple. So next time you find yourself with leftover rotisserie chicken, ditch the boring salad and whip up this flavorful twist on a classic dish. Your taste buds (and your wallet) will thank you!
Tips:
- Use leftover vegetables you have on hand, like chopped bell peppers or zucchini, to add more texture and nutrients to the chicken mixture.
- If you don’t have rotisserie chicken drippings, you can substitute olive oil or vegetable broth.
- Make it a complete meal by serving your enchiladas with rice, beans, or a side salad.
- Leftovers? No problem! These enchiladas reheat beautifully in the microwave or oven.
Enjoy your delicious and budget-friendly Costco Rotisserie Chicken Enchiladas!