Name: Mexican Chicken Enchilada Meatballs
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Ground Chicken; ⅓ cup Breadcrumbs; ¼ cup Diced Onion; 2 cloves Garlic (minced); ½ teaspoon Kosher Salt; ¼ teaspoon Ground Black Pepper; 1 large Egg; 10 ounces Red Enchilada Sauce (1 can); 4 ounces Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese; Chopped Fresh Cilantro (optional, for garnish)

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When I think of comfort food, Mexican Chicken Enchilada Meatballs instantly pops into my mind. There’s something about the combination of savory, spiced meatballs topped with zesty enchilada sauce and gooey cheese that warms my heart like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. I remember the first time I made these delicious meatballs for a gathering. Everyone was curious about the unique twist on traditional enchiladas, and I was excited to share this fusion dish with friends.

As soon as I pulled the meatballs out of the oven, the aroma of the spices filled the air, inviting everyone to the kitchen. Each bite was a burst of flavor, and the creamy melted cheese just took it over the top. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that can bring people together. I often make these meatballs for casual dinners or even as an appetizer for larger gatherings. Plus, the recipe is so straightforward, you’ll feel empowered to whip them up any time.

Join me in creating these mouthwatering Mexican Chicken Enchilada Meatballs that are sure to impress your loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a new family favorite, this dish is both satisfying and fun to make!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
280 kcal

Protein:
24 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free

Fat:
16 g

Tools Used:
9×13 Baking Pan

Why This Mexican Chicken Enchilada Meatballs Is a Winner

Comforting and Satisfying

One of the best things about Mexican Chicken Enchilada Meatballs is how comforting they are. There’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a warm, cheesy meatball that’s packed with flavor. The blend of spices and the richness of the sauce create a warm hug for your taste buds!

Easy to Prepare

Don’t let the gourmet taste fool you! These meatballs are incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time. I love how approachable this recipe is, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Versatile Dish

These meatballs are so versatile! You can serve them on their own, or with rice, in lettuce wraps, or even in tacos. The possibilities are endless! I love to mix and match sides to fit the occasion or my family’s preferences.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re someone who’s into meal prepping, these meatballs are a fantastic option. You can easily make a big batch, freeze them, and have them ready for quick meals throughout the week. Just heat and enjoy!

Great for Entertaining

Whenever I have friends over, I love to serve Mexican Chicken Enchilada Meatballs as a fun appetizer. They’re bite-sized, easy to eat, and always a hit. Plus, who doesn’t love an interactive meal where everyone can customize their plates?

What You Need for Mexican Chicken Enchilada Meatballs

To create these mouthwatering meatballs, you’ll need a blend of fresh ingredients that work harmoniously together. The key players include ground chicken for protein, breadcrumbs for texture, and the classic flavor enhancers like onion and garlic. Each ingredient contributes to a balanced dish that is bursting with flavor.

1 pound ground chicken
⅓ cup breadcrumbs
¼ cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic (minced)
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 large egg
10 ounces red enchilada sauce (1 can)
4 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese
chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Putting Together Mexican Chicken Enchilada Meatballs

The process of making these delicious meatballs is as enjoyable as eating them! Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions that will guide you to create the perfect Mexican Chicken Enchilada Meatballs.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This is an essential step to ensure your meatballs cook evenly and develop a nice golden color.
Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by spraying it with nonstick spray. This will prevent the meatballs from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and egg. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. You want the mixture to be cohesive but not overworked.
Next, it’s time to shape the meatballs. Using a cookie scoop or your hands, portion the mixture into 24 equal-sized meatballs. Each meatball should be about the size of a US quarter – not too big and not too small!
Once you’ve shaped all the meatballs, place them in the prepared baking pan, leaving a little space between each one for even cooking.
Place the baking pan in the oven and bake the meatballs for about 20 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden brown.
After 20 minutes, take the meatballs out of the oven and pour the red enchilada sauce over them, ensuring they are well covered. Then sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top.
Return the pan to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Finally, remove the meatballs from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired. Serve them hot and watch everyone enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

Keep your ingredients cold: Start with cold ground chicken from the refrigerator to make the meatballs easier to roll.
For low-carb meatballs: You can swap the breadcrumbs for ⅓ cup of freshly grated cheese.
For gluten-free options: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
If the mixture is too loose: Consider adding about 2 tablespoons of milk to help bind the meatballs.
Be gentle: When mixing the ingredients, make sure to fold them gently to avoid overworking the mixture, which can lead to tough meatballs.
Check for doneness: Ensure the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 165°F for safe consumption.

Customization Ideas

One of the joys of cooking is experimenting with flavors and ingredients. Here are some tips to customize your Mexican Chicken Enchilada Meatballs to suit your taste:

Spice it up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.
Vegan alternative: You can create a plant-based version using lentils or chickpeas as a substitute for ground chicken.
Cheese lovers: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or cheddar, for added flavor.
Herbs and spices: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or cumin for an extra layer of flavor in the meatballs.
Serving suggestion: Serve these meatballs over rice, in tacos, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.

What Complements This Mexican Chicken Enchilada Meatballs

When it comes to serving Mexican Chicken Enchilada Meatballs, there are so many delightful options to consider. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal:

Rice: Serve the meatballs over fluffy white rice or spicy Mexican rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Salad: A fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the meatballs.
Tacos: Place the meatballs in soft tortillas for a fun twist on taco night. Top with avocado and salsa.
Vegetables: Grilled or steamed vegetables make a healthy side that balances the richness of the meatballs.
Occasions: These meatballs are fantastic for casual family dinners, game day parties, or even festive gatherings.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze cooked meatballs for up to three months. Just reheat them in the oven or microwave.

FAQ

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for ground chicken, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, beef, or even a plant-based meat alternative. The key is to maintain the same amount of meat to ensure the recipe’s proportions stay consistent. Just remember that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the type of meat you choose.

If you want to add some heat to your Mexican Chicken Enchilada Meatballs, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce into the enchilada sauce. Additionally, you could mix in some cayenne pepper or chili powder into the meatball mixture for an extra kick. Adjust the spice level to your taste preference!

There are many delicious options to pair with Mexican Chicken Enchilada Meatballs. For a fresh contrast, a crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette works beautifully. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, serve the meatballs over rice, quinoa, or in tortillas. Grilled or roasted vegetables also complement the flavors nicely and provide a healthy balance.

Yes, you can easily prepare Mexican Chicken Enchilada Meatballs ahead of time. You can mix the meatball ingredients and form the meatballs, then store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Alternatively, you can prepare and bake the meatballs, let them cool, and then freeze them for up to three months. Just reheat them in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Mexican Chicken Enchilada Meatballs bring a delightful twist to traditional meatballs and enchiladas, creating a dish that is both comforting and crowd-pleasing. The combination of flavors and textures makes this recipe stand out in any meal setting. I encourage you to give it a try; you won’t be disappointed. Whether for a family dinner or a festive gathering, these meatballs are sure to be a hit!