Costa Vida's Enchilada features tender shredded chicken smothered in rich, flavorful red enchilada sauce, wrapped in soft corn tortillas, and topped with melted cheese, fresh cilantro, and a side of zesty Mexican rice and refried beans for a satisfying and vibrant Tex-Mex meal.
Equipments
- Slow cooker or pressure cooker
- Baking dish
- Saucepan
- Cheese grater
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooking spoon
- Oven
- Blender (for sauce, if homemade)
- Aluminum foil
- Ladle
- Serving plates
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce
- 8-10 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro
- 2 cups Mexican rice
- 2 cups refried beans
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Ground cumin
- Chili powder
- Optional: fresh lime wedges
Use fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tender shredded meat that absorbs the rich red enchilada sauce perfectly. Corn tortillas should be warmed slightly to prevent cracking when rolling the enchiladas. Mexican blend cheese melts smoothly for a creamy topping, while fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbal contrast. Season the filling with ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to balance flavors authentically. Your Costa Vida Enchilada copycat will capture the satisfying and vibrant essence of the original Tex-Mex dish.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder.
- Place chicken, onion (chopped), garlic (minced), and 1 cup enchilada sauce in slow cooker or pressure cooker.
- Cook until chicken is tender (slow cooker: 4-6 hours on low, pressure cooker: 12-15 minutes on high).
- Shred cooked chicken with forks.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Warm corn tortillas to soften (microwave or skillet).
- Fill each tortilla with shredded chicken.
- Roll filled tortillas and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Pour remaining enchilada sauce over rolled tortillas.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top.
- Cover with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 5-8 minutes until cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Cook Mexican rice and heat refried beans (as per package or homemade recipe).
- Garnish enchiladas with chopped fresh cilantro.
- Serve enchiladas with Mexican rice and refried beans on the side.
- Optional: serve with fresh lime wedges.
Substitution
Costa Vida's Enchilada copycat dish uses shredded chicken soaked in red enchilada sauce wrapped in corn tortillas and topped with cheese and cilantro alongside Mexican rice and refried beans. You can substitute shredded rotisserie chicken if time is short, saving you slow cooker or pressure cooker use. If corn tortillas break easily during assembly, warm them briefly in a damp cloth or lightly fry to improve flexibility. When making homemade enchilada sauce in a blender, adjust spice levels according to your taste preferences for best results. Use a baking dish covered with aluminum foil to keep enchiladas moist during baking and prevent the cheese from drying out.
Tips
Make sure to season the chicken thoroughly with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder before cooking to enhance the flavor. Warm the corn tortillas before filling to prevent cracking when rolling and ensure a soft texture. Cover the baking dish with foil during the initial baking phase to keep the enchiladas moist, then remove it to brown the cheese perfectly. When shredding the chicken, use two forks to achieve tender, even pieces that blend well with the enchilada sauce.
Nutritions
Costa Vida's Enchilada provides a balanced source of protein from tender shredded chicken, essential for muscle repair and growth. Corn tortillas offer complex carbohydrates, contributing to sustained energy levels, while refried beans supply dietary fiber and plant-based protein to support digestion and satiety. The dish contains moderate amounts of fat from shredded cheese and olive oil, with vitamins and antioxidants delivered through fresh cilantro and spices like cumin and chili powder. Your meal is complemented by Mexican rice, adding additional carbohydrates and a variety of micronutrients.
Storage
Store leftover Costa Vida's Enchiladas in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days to maintain flavor and texture. For longer storage, freeze the enchiladas wrapped tightly in aluminum foil and then placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When reheating, thaw thoroughly in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven at 350degF (175degC) until heated through to preserve the dish's rich enchilada sauce and melted cheese.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute shredded chicken with pulled pork or ground beef for a different protein option while keeping the bold flavors intact. Swap corn tortillas for flour tortillas if you prefer a softer texture or want extra pliability during rolling. For a homemade enchilada sauce, blend roasted tomatoes, chili powder, garlic, and cumin in a blender to control the spice and depth of flavor. Adding a layer of sauteed bell peppers and onions inside the tortillas before baking enhances the dish's vegetable content and adds vibrant color.
Allergies
Costa Vida's Enchilada contains dairy from the shredded Mexican blend cheese, which may cause allergic reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. Corn tortillas might trigger sensitivity in people with a rare corn allergy, while spices such as chili powder and cumin can occasionally cause allergic responses or irritation. Your meal could also pose a risk if you have a legume allergy due to the refried beans included in the dish.
Why this recipe?
Costa Vida's Enchilada menu is favored for its authentic blend of tender, seasoned meat wrapped in freshly made tortillas and smothered in rich, flavorful sauces crafted from ripe chilies and spices. The balance of melted cheese, zesty salsa, and fresh toppings enhances the experience, making every bite satisfying and memorable. Your taste buds will appreciate the harmonious combination of textures and vibrant flavors that define this Southwestern classic. Recreating this dish at home offers a rewarding culinary challenge and the chance to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal tailored to your preferences.