Sizzling Enchiladas from El Torito feature tender corn tortillas filled with seasoned shredded chicken, smothered in a rich red chili sauce and melted cheddar cheese, topped with fresh cilantro and served piping hot on a sizzling skillet, offering a flavorful and aromatic Mexican classic.
Equipments
- Skillet (sizzling skillet)
- Oven or stovetop
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Saucepan
- Tongs
- Cheese grater
- Ladle
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 cups red chili enchilada sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Ensure you use fresh corn tortillas for authentic texture and flavor, as flour tortillas may alter the dish's traditional taste. The red chili enchilada sauce should be rich and well-seasoned, as it is key to achieving the bold, smoky flavor of Sizzling Enchiladas from El Torito. Use shredded cooked chicken that is tender and seasoned to enhance the overall taste. Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbal note that balances the richness of the cheese and sauce. Your preparation of this Sizzling Enchiladas from El Torito copycat menu will be most successful by carefully selecting and balancing these essential ingredients.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Lightly fry each corn tortilla in hot oil for a few seconds per side; drain on paper towels.
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken with salt and pepper.
- Spoon a portion of chicken onto each tortilla.
- Roll up tortillas around the filling and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Pour red chili enchilada sauce evenly over the filled tortillas.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Carefully transfer baked enchiladas to a preheated sizzling skillet.
- Top with chopped fresh cilantro.
- Serve immediately while piping hot.
Substitution
Sizzling Enchiladas from El Torito copycat menu can be easily customized to suit your kitchen needs or ingredient availability. If corn tortillas are unavailable, flour tortillas can be used but expect a softer texture rather than the traditional slightly crispy edges. When shredded cooked chicken is not ready-made, poaching or roasting your own chicken breasts or thighs ensures tender meat and allows you to control seasoning. If red chili enchilada sauce is difficult to find, substituting with a blend of tomato sauce, chili powder, and garlic can replicate the flavor profile. You can also adjust the cheese type according to preference, using Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for a slightly different but equally melty texture.
Tips
Ensure the corn tortillas are lightly fried but not crispy to prevent cracking when rolling your enchiladas. Season the shredded chicken with salt and pepper thoroughly for balanced flavor inside each tortilla. Pour the red chili enchilada sauce evenly to coat every enchilada, helping them stay moist and flavorful during baking. When serving, use a preheated sizzling skillet to keep your enchiladas piping hot and enhance their aromatic appeal.
Nutritions
Sizzling Enchiladas provide a balanced source of protein, primarily from the shredded chicken and melted cheddar cheese, which supports muscle maintenance and repair. The corn tortillas contribute complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, while the red chili enchilada sauce adds antioxidants and vitamins such as vitamin A and capsanthin. Fresh cilantro offers additional micronutrients, including vitamins K and C, enhancing the dish's nutritional profile. When enjoying this meal, you benefit from a combination of macronutrients and essential vitamins that fuel your body and satisfy your taste buds.
Storage
Store leftover Sizzling Enchiladas tightly covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Reheat your enchiladas in the oven at 350degF (175degC) for about 15 minutes or until heated through, preserving the melted cheese and warm flavor. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the tortillas from becoming soggy and ensure the dish retains its signature sizzling quality.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, substitute shredded chicken with seasoned ground beef or sauteed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini to cater to different dietary preferences. Use flour tortillas or blue corn tortillas instead of corn for a unique texture and flavor. Swap cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or a blend of Mexican cheeses to create a creamier, meltier topping. Your red chili enchilada sauce can be enhanced by simmering it with diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, or chipotle peppers for extra depth and smokiness.
Allergies
Sizzling Enchiladas contain common allergens such as dairy from the shredded cheddar cheese and potential cross-contamination allergens in the enchilada sauce. Corn tortillas may trigger reactions in individuals with a rare corn allergy, while cilantro is an uncommon allergen but may cause sensitivity in some people. It's important to check ingredient labels carefully and inform your server about your specific allergies when ordering this dish.
Why this recipe?
Sizzling Enchiladas from El Torito restaurant captivate diners with their rich blend of melted cheese, savory seasoned meat, and tangy enchilada sauce served piping hot on a skillet. The combination of fresh ingredients and authentic Mexican spices creates a flavorful and aromatic experience that excites the taste buds. Recreating this recipe at home allows you to enjoy the same bold flavors and satisfying texture while customizing ingredients to your preferences. Making the copycat version can bring the vibrant essence of El Torito's signature dish straight to your kitchen.