Name: Honey Lime Chicken Enchilada Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h 35 min
Total time: 5 h 30 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 small onion; 3 chicken breast; ½ cup chicken broth; 1 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp garlic; salt and pepper; 6 tbsp honey; 5 tbsp lime juice; 10 flour tortillas; 1 lb Monterey Jack cheese; 16 oz green enchilada sauce; ½ cup heavy cream

This Honey Lime Chicken Enchilada recipe blends the natural sweetness of honey, the tangy flavor of lime, and the spiciness of chili powder, resulting in a dish that's packed with irresistible flavor. The soft flour tortillas are filled with juicy chicken and melted Monterey Jack cheese, creating a satisfying texture. The green enchilada sauce mixed with heavy cream adds a rich and creamy finish.

Photos of Honey Lime Chicken Enchilada Recipe

This recipe calls for a few ingredients that might not be readily available in your pantry. Green enchilada sauce is a type of Mexican sauce made from green chili peppers. It's tangy, slightly spicy, and can be found in the international aisle of most supermarkets. Monterey Jack cheese is a semi-hard cheese known for its mild flavor and creamy texture when melted, and it's a common ingredient in Tex-Mex dishes.

Ingredients for Honey Lime Chicken Enchiladas

Onion: Used to add a depth of flavor to the chicken. It's sautéed until transparent and soft, enhancing its sweetness.

Chicken breast: This is the main protein of the dish. It's cooked and shredded to absorb the flavors of the other ingredients.

Chicken broth: Adds moisture and flavor to the chicken during cooking.

Chili powder: Gives the dish its characteristic spicy kick.

Garlic: Provides a strong, aromatic flavor.

Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings for enhancing the flavors of the ingredients.

Honey: Natural sweetener that balances the spicy and tangy flavors.

Lime juice: Brightens the dish with its tangy flavor.

Flour tortillas: Used as the outer layer of the enchiladas. They're filled with the chicken mixture and baked until crispy.

Monterey Jack cheese: Melts into a creamy and flavorful filling and topping for the enchiladas.

Green enchilada sauce: Adds a tangy and slightly spicy flavor to the dish.

Heavy cream: Mixed with the enchilada sauce for a richer and creamier finish.

One reader, Dulcine Quick says:

This honey lime chicken enchilada recipe is a game-changer! The combination of sweet honey and tangy lime creates a burst of flavor that's simply irresistible. The chicken turns out tender and juicy, and the creamy enchilada sauce ties everything together perfectly. It's a must-try for any enchilada lover!

Dulcine Quick

Techniques Required for Making Honey Lime Chicken Enchiladas

How to sauté the onion: In a heated pan, add a little butter and the diced onion. Cook and stir until the onion becomes transparent and soft.

How to shred the chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and use two forks to shred the meat into small pieces.

How to marinate the chicken: Place the seasoned, shredded chicken in a ziploc bag, seal tightly, and press out as much air as possible. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 to 40 minutes, or longer for about 1 hour.

How to assemble the enchiladas: Fill the tortillas with the marinated chicken mixture and shredded cheese, saving about 1 cup of cheese to sprinkle on top of the enchiladas.

How to make the enchilada sauce: Mix the remaining enchilada sauce with heavy cream to create a creamy and flavorful sauce for the enchiladas.

How to bake the enchiladas: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and bake the assembled enchiladas for 30 minutes until they are brown and crispy on top.

How to serve: Serve the honey lime chicken enchiladas hot and top with your favorite enchilada toppings.

How To Make Honey Lime Chicken Enchilada

Have a filling bite of this flavorful chicken enchilada made extra flavorful with the honey-lime marinade and sauce, plus cheese topping the enchilada!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 4 hours 35 minutes

Marinate Time: 40 minutes

Total: 5 hours 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1small onion,peeled, diced, sweet onion if available
3chicken breast,halves
½cupchicken broth
1tbspchili powder
1tspgarlic,(2 to 3 cloves) minced
salt and pepper,to taste
6tbsphoney
5tbsplime juice,(1 large)
10flour tortillas
1lbMonterey Jack cheese,shredded
16ozgreen enchilada sauce
½cupheavy cream

Instructions

Sauté the onion in a little butter until it becomes transparent and soft.
In a crockpot, add the chicken, chicken broth, sauteed onion, chili powder, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Cook on Low for about 8 hours (or on High for 3 to 4 hours) adding more broth if needed (don’t cook it out completely).
Remove chicken from crockpot and shred, then return to the crockpot and simmer another 5 minutes.
Drain out some of the juices (but not all of it, keep about ¼ cup), then add the honey and lime.
Place the seasoned, shredded chicken in a Ziploc bag and seal tightly, pressing out as much air as can be pressed.
Marinate for at least 30 to 40 minutes, or longer for about 1 hour.
While the chicken is marinating, spray a 9×13-inch pan with cooking spray, then pour about ½ cup of the enchilada sauce over the bottom.
Fill the tortillas with the chicken mixture and shredded cheese, saving about 1 cup of cheese to sprinkle on top of the enchiladas.
Mix the remaining enchilada sauce with heavy cream.
Pour the sauce on top of the enchiladas and sprinkle with cheese.
Bake at 350 degrees F for 30 minutes until brown and crispy on top.
Serve hot and top with your favorite enchilada toppings.

Recipe Notes

If a crockpot is not available, just boil the chicken in the same ingredients in a large pot with a little extra chicken broth until cooked through and can be shredded.

Nutrition

Calories: 859.27kcal
Fat: 44.96g
Saturated Fat: 22.42g
Trans Fat: 0.10g
Monounsaturated Fat: 15.33g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.58g
Carbohydrates: 69.38g
Fiber: 4.32g
Sugar: 26.53g
Protein: 45.94g
Cholesterol: 150.73mg
Sodium: 1846.06mg
Calcium: 736.54mg
Potassium: 484.19mg
Iron: 4.88mg
Vitamin A: 272.64µg
Vitamin C: 6.64mg

Technique Tip for Perfect Honey Lime Chicken Enchiladas

When shredding the chicken, use two forks to pull the meat apart. This will create smaller, more manageable pieces that will absorb the honey and lime marinade more effectively. Additionally, allowing the chicken to marinate for a longer period will intensify the flavors, making your enchiladas even more delicious. Remember, the key to a great enchilada is the balance of flavors, so don't be afraid to adjust the amount of chili powder, garlic, salt, and pepper to suit your taste.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the chicken filling and marinate it the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use rotisserie chicken: If you're short on time, consider using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken from scratch.

Assembly line: Set up an assembly line for filling and rolling the enchiladas to streamline the process.

Double batch: Make a double batch of the enchiladas and freeze the extras for a quick and easy meal in the future.

Pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheese to save time on grating and preparation.

Crockpot shortcut: Use a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and a store-bought rotisserie sauce to cut down on cooking time.

Prep station: Set up all your ingredients and tools in one place to make the cooking process more efficient.

Kitchen gadgets: Utilize kitchen gadgets like a food processor or a stand mixer to speed up the shredding and mixing process.

Substitute Ingredients For Honey Lime Chicken Enchilada Recipe

chicken breast - Substitute with tofu: Tofu can be used as a plant-based alternative to chicken for a vegetarian version of the recipe.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a vegetarian alternative to chicken broth, providing a similar depth of flavor.
flour tortillas - Substitute with corn tortillas: Corn tortillas can be used for a gluten-free alternative to flour tortillas, and they impart a slightly different flavor and texture to the dish.
monterey jack cheese - Substitute with pepper jack cheese: Pepper jack cheese can be used for a spicier alternative to monterey jack, adding a kick of heat to the dish.
green enchilada sauce - Substitute with red enchilada sauce: Red enchilada sauce can be used for a different flavor profile, providing a richer and slightly spicier taste compared to green enchilada sauce.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can be used as a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream, adding a hint of coconut flavor to the dish.

Best Way to Present Honey Lime Chicken Enchiladas

Elevate the enchiladas with a drizzle of honey lime reduction: Create a visually stunning plate by drizzling a reduction of honey and lime juice over the enchiladas. This will add a touch of elegance and a burst of flavor to the dish.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges: Add a pop of color and freshness to the plate by garnishing the enchiladas with vibrant cilantro leaves and slices of lime. This will enhance the visual appeal and provide a hint of zesty aroma.
Incorporate a side of avocado and mango salsa: Present a small side of refreshing avocado and mango salsa to complement the flavors of the enchiladas. The vibrant colors and textures will add a sophisticated touch to the overall presentation.
Arrange the enchiladas with precision: Pay attention to the placement of each enchilada on the plate, ensuring a visually appealing arrangement. Neatly stacked or elegantly fanned out enchiladas will showcase attention to detail and culinary finesse.
Accentuate with a swirl of crema: Use a delicate hand to create a beautiful swirl of crema on the plate, adding a touch of creaminess and artistry to the presentation of the enchiladas.
Sprinkle with microgreens: Finish the dish with a sprinkle of vibrant microgreens for a subtle yet impactful touch of freshness and visual appeal. The delicate greens will add a refined and sophisticated element to the overall presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Honey Lime Chicken Enchiladas

Cutting board: Used for chopping and preparing ingredients.
Chef's knife: Essential for cutting and slicing various ingredients with precision.
Skillet: Ideal for sautéing and cooking the chicken.
Crockpot: Used for slow-cooking the chicken and infusing flavors.
Ziploc bag: Used for marinating the chicken and ensuring it's evenly coated.
9x13-inch pan: Used for assembling and baking the enchiladas.
Cooking spray: Prevents the enchiladas from sticking to the pan during baking.
Oven: Used for baking the enchiladas to perfection.

How To Store and Freeze Honey Lime Chicken Enchiladas

Let the honey lime chicken enchiladas cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. The enchiladas will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the enchiladas:
- Wrap the baking dish securely with plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This will help prevent freezer burn.
- Label the dish with the date and contents for easy reference.
- Place the wrapped dish in the freezer, where it will keep for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat refrigerated enchiladas:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the plastic wrap or foil and cover the dish with a fresh piece of foil.
- Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
To reheat frozen enchiladas:
- Thaw the enchiladas overnight in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the plastic wrap and foil, and cover the dish with a new piece of foil.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the enchiladas are heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- If the enchiladas are still frozen, increase the baking time to 45-60 minutes, checking occasionally to ensure they don't burn.
Individual portions can be reheated in the microwave:
- Place a single serving on a microwave-safe plate.
- Cover the plate with a damp paper towel to prevent the tortilla from drying out.
- Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.

How To Reheat Leftover Enchiladas

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover enchiladas in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and prevent the tortillas from becoming too crispy or dry.
If you prefer a crispier top, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking. You can also sprinkle some extra shredded cheese on top before baking for added flavor and texture.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place the enchiladas on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the tortillas to become rubbery.
If you have an air fryer, you can reheat the enchiladas in it for a crispy exterior. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the enchiladas in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.
For a stovetop method, place the enchiladas in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pan to help steam the enchiladas and prevent them from drying out. Cover the skillet and heat for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to check the internal temperature of the enchiladas to ensure they have reached a safe temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
To add some extra flavor and freshness to your reheated enchiladas, consider topping them with some fresh cilantro, diced onions, or a squeeze of lime juice before serving.

Random Fact About Honey Lime Chicken Enchiladas

Honey lime chicken enchilada is a delicious fusion of sweet and tangy flavors. This dish combines the sweetness of honey and the zesty kick of lime, creating a unique and flavorful chicken enchilada recipe.

Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

This honey lime chicken enchilada recipe is relatively cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as chicken breast, onion, lime juice, and flour tortillas, are commonly found and reasonably priced. The use of simple, affordable ingredients makes this recipe budget-friendly. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8/10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25, making it an economical choice for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Are Honey Lime Chicken Enchiladas Healthy or Unhealthy?

This honey lime chicken enchilada recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes lean protein from the chicken breast, which is a nutritious choice. The onion and garlic provide some beneficial nutrients and flavor. However, the recipe also contains several ingredients that may not be considered healthy:

Heavy cream and a large amount of cheese, which are high in saturated fat and calories
Flour tortillas, which are made from refined grains and lack fiber
A significant amount of honey, which adds sugar to the dish

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the heavy cream with a lower-fat alternative, such as plain Greek yogurt or light sour cream
Reduce the amount of cheese used, or opt for a lower-fat variety like part-skim mozzarella
Swap the flour tortillas for whole wheat or corn tortillas to increase fiber intake
Decrease the amount of honey used, or substitute with a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit
Add more vegetables to the filling, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach, to boost the nutrient content and fiber
Use a low-sodium chicken broth and reduce the amount of added salt to control sodium levels
Bake the enchiladas on a wire rack placed inside the baking dish to allow excess fat to drip away during cooking

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious version of this honey lime chicken enchilada recipe while still enjoying its delicious flavors.

Editor's Thoughts on Honey Lime Chicken Enchiladas

The honey lime chicken enchilada recipe is a delightful fusion of sweet and tangy flavors, creating a mouthwatering dish. The slow-cooked chicken infused with honey and lime offers a succulent and tender texture, complemented by the creamy and cheesy filling. The green enchilada sauce with a hint of heavy cream adds a luscious and indulgent touch. This recipe promises to tantalize the taste buds with its harmonious blend of ingredients, making it a delightful addition to any dining experience.

Enhance Your Honey Lime Chicken Enchilada Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Guacamole: Create a zesty and creamy guacamole with ripe avocados, diced tomatoes, finely chopped onions, and a splash of lime juice for a refreshing side dish.

Mango Salsa: Whip up a vibrant and fruity mango salsa with diced mangoes, red bell peppers, red onions, and cilantro for a sweet and tangy accompaniment to the honey lime chicken enchiladas.

Cilantro Lime Rice: Prepare a fragrant and flavorful cilantro lime rice using long-grain rice, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice for a zesty and aromatic side to complement the enchiladas.

Mexican Street Corn: Serve up a classic Mexican street corn with grilled corn on the cob, slathered in a creamy mixture of mayonnaise, cotija cheese, and a sprinkle of chili powder for a smoky and savory side dish.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Honey Lime Chicken Enchiladas

Spicy Beef Tacos: Create a flavorful and spicy beef taco recipe using ground beef, taco seasoning, and your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese.

Mango Salsa Chicken: Combine the sweetness of mango with the savory flavors of chicken in this delicious and refreshing mango salsa chicken recipe.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Warm up with a comforting and creamy tomato basil soup that is perfect for a cozy night in. Pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal.

Berry Cobbler: Indulge in a sweet and fruity berry cobbler made with a mix of your favorite berries and a buttery, crumbly topping. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with This Recipe

Appetizers:

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Combine creamy spinach and artichoke dip with crispy tortilla chips for a perfect start to any meal. The rich and savory flavors will leave your guests wanting more.

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. These bite-sized appetizers are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and decadent texture will melt in your mouth, leaving you craving for more.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy and luscious strawberry cheesecake, with a buttery graham cracker crust and a sweet strawberry topping. Each bite is a delightful combination of tangy and sweet flavors that will leave you wanting another slice.

Why trust this Honey Lime Chicken Enchilada Recipe:

This honey lime chicken enchilada recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The succulent chicken breast is slow-cooked to perfection, ensuring a tender and juicy texture. The combination of honey and lime juice creates a harmonious balance of sweetness and tanginess, elevating the dish to a whole new level. With the addition of creamy monterey jack cheese and zesty green enchilada sauce, every bite is a symphony of deliciousness. Trust in this recipe to deliver a mouthwatering experience that will leave you craving for more.

Want to share your experience making this Honey Lime Chicken Enchilada Recipe or discuss variations and tips? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas. Just make sure to warm them up before filling and rolling to prevent them from cracking.

Can I prepare the chicken filling ahead of time and refrigerate it?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken filling ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container and reheat it before assembling the enchiladas.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream in the enchilada sauce?

If you don't have heavy cream, you can use sour cream or Greek yogurt as a substitute for a tangy and creamy flavor in the enchilada sauce.

Can I freeze the honey lime chicken enchiladas?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled enchiladas before baking. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

What are some recommended toppings for the honey lime chicken enchiladas?

You can top the enchiladas with diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or a drizzle of extra honey lime sauce for a burst of fresh flavors.