Chipotle Chicken Enchilada Skillet Recipe

Oh, I just have to tell you about this Chipotle Chicken Enchilada Skillet Recipe — it’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I love this recipe because it brings together smoky chipotle heat, creamy cheese, and tender shredded chicken all in one easy skillet meal. Whether you’re craving a cozy weeknight dinner or want something impressive yet simple for guests, this skillet has your back.

When I first tried this recipe, I couldn’t believe how quickly it came together and how the flavors developed into something rich and layered. You’ll find that the secret lies in the homemade chipotle enchilada sauce—it’s packed with bold spices but perfectly balanced, and it makes the whole dish sing. Trust me, this Chipotle Chicken Enchilada Skillet Recipe is a real winner for busy nights or casual family gatherings!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Chipotle Chicken Enchilada Skillet Recipe is that its ingredients are simple but work harmoniously together — smoky spices, tender chicken, and melty cheese. When shopping, look for good-quality shredded chicken and a robust chipotle chili powder to get that iconic flavor.

• Ghee: Adds a wonderful nutty richness that complements the spices perfectly.
• Arrowroot starch: Helps thicken the enchilada sauce without a heavy texture.
• Chipotle chili powder: Gives a smoky, slightly spicy flavor—substitute with regular chili powder if you prefer mild.
• Cumin, sweet paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, kosher salt: Classic Mexican spices that build a deep, balanced sauce.
• Tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor, making the sauce rich and thick.
• Beef broth: Adds savory depth to the sauce—feel free to use chicken broth if you prefer.
• Shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken works best for convenience and flavor.
• Chopped green chiles: Adds a mild kick and some texture to the filling.
• Black beans: For protein, fiber, and heartiness.
• Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese blend: Melts perfectly and adds creaminess.
• Tortillas: I love using grain-free cassava flour tortillas for a lighter alternative, but traditional corn tortillas work great too.
• Green onions and cilantro: Fresh garnishes that brighten the dish.

Variations

I love how flexible this Chipotle Chicken Enchilada Skillet Recipe is, so I often try different twists based on what’s in my pantry or what my family prefers. Don’t hesitate to customize — that’s half the fun!

• Mild version: When my kids want dinner less spicy, I swap out chipotle chili powder with regular chili powder — it’s just as flavorful but gentler.
• Vegetarian option: Instead of chicken, try roasted sweet potatoes or sautéed mushrooms with black beans for a hearty meatless skillet.
• Different cheeses: Experiment with pepper jack for extra zing or queso fresco for an authentic touch.
• Grain-free tortillas: I use cassava flour tortillas, but corn or flour tortillas work great depending on what you have.

How to Make Chipotle Chicken Enchilada Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Whip Up the Flavorful Chipotle Enchilada Sauce

Start by melting the ghee in a small saucepan over medium heat. I like to whisk in the arrowroot starch right away to form a smooth base before adding the spices—chipotle chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and salt. This is when the magic happens: keep stirring and sauté the spices for about 2 minutes to really unlock their aromas without burning them. Then stir in your tomato paste, and gradually add 1 1/2 cups of beef broth while whisking constantly so your sauce stays silky smooth. Cook it down for another 4-5 minutes until thick and luscious, then remove from heat and whisk in the remaining 1/2 cup broth to loosen it just right for drizzling and layering.

Step 2: Mix the Chicken, Chiles, and Beans Together

In a large bowl, combine your shredded chicken with undrained chopped green chiles and rinsed black beans. I usually use rotisserie chicken because it’s so tender and packed with flavor, plus it saves a ton of time. Give everything a gentle stir so the ingredients meld, but don’t mash the beans — you want that nice texture in every bite.

Step 3: Layer It All in Your Skillet

This part is so satisfying! Grab a 12-inch cast iron skillet or a 9×13 casserole dish and spread about 3/4 cup of that beautiful enchilada sauce on the bottom. Then layer 4 tortillas on top, half the chicken mixture, one-third of the shredded cheese, and another 3/4 cup of sauce. Repeat with another 4 tortillas, the remaining chicken mix, another third of cheese, and sauce again. Finally, top with the last 4 tortillas, the remaining sauce, and finish with cheese. This layering locks in moisture and flavors and creates that perfect cheesy crust on top.

Step 4: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden

Pop your skillet into a preheated 375°F oven, uncovered, and bake for about 15 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to bubble and turn lightly golden brown. I like to peek around the 12-minute mark to avoid over-browning. Once done, let it cool for 5 minutes—this helps the layers settle and makes it easier to slice and serve without everything sliding around.

How to Serve Chipotle Chicken Enchilada Skillet Recipe

Garnishes

I always top this skillet with fresh green onions and a handful of chopped cilantro — they bring a burst of freshness that balances the smoky, cheesy richness. Sometimes I add a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime juice if I want to jazz things up a bit. These little extras really elevate each bite!

Side Dishes

Pair this recipe with a simple side salad or some Mexican-style street corn for a colorful, balanced meal. I like a refreshing cucumber salad or avocado slices on the side, which cools down the warmth of the skillet. A side of cilantro-lime rice is also a great way to soak up all the flavors leftover on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this dish in individual ramekins layered just like the big skillet — it looks charming and makes portion control easy. Another fun idea is to turn it into a taco bar, giving everyone the skillet elements and toppings to build their own enchilada-style tacos. It’s interactive and always a hit with guests!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After cooling, I transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating chips away at that fresh-baked texture a bit, but the flavors remain just as tasty. For best results, I recommend reheating in the oven or toaster oven to keep the cheese melty and the edges a bit crisp.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully — just assemble it in a freezer-safe dish before baking, then cover tightly with foil. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake until bubbly and hot in the center. It’s a lifesaver for meal prepping or planning ahead for busy days.

Reheating

I find reheating leftovers at 350°F in the oven for 15-20 minutes works best to revive the gooey cheese and warm everything evenly. If you’re in a rush, microwaving works too—just add a damp paper towel over the top to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Chipotle Chicken Enchilada Skillet Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it’s the perfect mix of smoky, cheesy, and comforting without taking hours to prepare. I genuinely recommend you give it a shot — once you taste that homemade sauce and the melty layers come together, you’ll understand why it’s a family favorite. I hope it brings you the same joy and ease that it has for me, especially on those busy nights when you want something hearty, delicious, and fuss-free.

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