trader joe’s chicken enchiladas verde copycat recipe

The Best trader joe’s chicken enchiladas verde copycat recipe

Trader Joe’s Chicken Enchiladas Verde Copycat Recipe

4.8 from 1765 votes

A delicious homemade version of Trader Joe’s famous Chicken Enchiladas Verde, featuring tender chicken in a vibrant green tomato sauce, wrapped in flaky tortillas. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

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Prep Time20 mins

Cook Time40 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time60 mins

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 cup cold water

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Sauce

• 1 (24 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup green chili sauce (like Chipotle or homemade)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely diced (optional)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt to taste

For Assembly

• 8 small flour tortillas
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or a mix of cheeses)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped white onion
• Lime wedges (for serving)
• Hot sauce (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. 2
   For the dough: In a bowl, mix flour, salt, baking powder, and cold water until a dough forms. Divide into two balls, flatten slightly, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. 3
   For the chicken: In a bowl, toss chicken pieces with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
4. 4
   For the sauce: In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until soft. Add diced jalapeño if using. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, green chili sauce, water, corn kernels, cumin, oregano, cayenne, and salt. Simmer for 15 minutes. Blend until smooth (optional), then return to the skillet. Keep warm.
5. 5
   Cut the dough into 8 rectangles. Heat tortillas in a dry skillet for 10 seconds per side. Roll each rectangle into a thin tortilla, then cut into 4 smaller triangles.
6. 6
   Preheat oven broiler. In a baking dish, spread half the sauce. Place chicken in the dish, then top with tortilla triangles. Pour remaining sauce over the top. Sprinkle with cheese.
7. 7
   Bake uncovered for 20 minutes. Broil for 2-3 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. 8
   Let rest 5 minutes, then garnish with sour cream, chopped cilantro, and chopped onion. Serve with lime wedges and hot sauce.

🔧Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Food processor or rolling pin
• Large skillet
• Oven-safe baking dish (9×13 inches)
• Mixing spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 90mg🧂Sodium: 850mg🌾Total Carbs: 55g🥦Dietary Fiber: 8g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

Tips

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of sugar to the sauce to balance acidity.
• Substitute chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Use corn tortillas instead of flour for a lighter option.
• You can make the dough ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Adjustments

• Reduce cayenne for a milder sauce.
• Add avocado slices or pickled red onions for extra freshness.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Trader Joe’s Chicken Enchiladas Verde Copycat

What are the key ingredients I need to make Trader Joe’s Chicken Enchiladas Verde Copycat Recipe?

To make this recipe, you’ll need chicken breast or thighs, taco seasoning (or a mix of cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder), green enchilada sauce (or homemade verde sauce made with tomatillos, jalapeños, garlic, and onion), shredded cheese (such as Monterey Jack or cheddar), corn tortillas, and optional toppings like sour cream, chopped cilantre, and avocado.

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How do I prepare the chicken for the enchiladas?

Cook the chicken breast or thighs in a pan with a bit of oil until fully cooked (165°F internal temp). Let it cool, then shred it finely. Season with taco seasoning or a mix of spices (cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder) while it’s still warm to enhance flavor.

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Can I substitute the green enchilada sauce if I don’t have Trader Joe’s brand?

Yes! You can make a homemade verde sauce by blending tomatillos (steamed or roasted), jalapeños, garlic, onion, and a splash of lime juice. Season with salt and a pinch of cumin. If you prefer a store-bought alternative, look for a mild green enchilada sauce (like Hellmann’s or a Mexican brand).

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What’s the best way to assemble the enchiladas for the best texture?

Fill each tortilla with a generous amount of shredded chicken, then top with a spoonful of green enchilada sauce. Sprinkle with shredded cheese, and fold the tortilla in half. Place them seam-side down in a baking dish, covering with more sauce and cheese to prevent burning.

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How do I bake the enchiladas to perfection, and how long should I cook them?

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the enchiladas for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth to help it melt evenly. For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.