Buckle up, folks! Chef Emma Brookstone here, the bold culinary rebel who’s on a mission to help busy people cook real food in minutes. Today, I’m going to show you how to make a Savory Chicken Enchilada Mug Meal that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. If you’ve got five minutes, you’ve got dinner – that’s the magic of the microwave, my friends.
Why You’ll Love This Savory Chicken Enchilada Mug Meal
This mug meal is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It’s a cozy, comfort-food classic that’s ready in a flash, with zero mess and maximum yum. The best part? You can whip it up in a single mug, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your delicious creation. It’s a stress-free, grab-and-go meal that’s perfect for those hectic days when you need a quick, satisfying dinner. Let’s get started!
Ingredients (Single-Serve)
You’ll need just a few simple ingredients to create this Savory Chicken Enchilada Mug Meal: shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, shredded cheese, and a few pantry staples like tortilla chips, sour cream, and fresh cilantro. The best part? You can use pre-cooked chicken or even leftover rotisserie chicken to make this recipe come together even faster.
- 1 cup (240 ml) – shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) – enchilada sauce
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) – shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) – tortilla chips
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) – sour cream, for serving
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) – fresh cilantro, for serving
Ingredient Substitutions
- Protein: You can swap the shredded chicken for ground beef or turkey for a different twist.
- Dietary: Use corn chips instead of tortilla chips for a gluten-free option.
How to Make Savory Chicken Enchilada Mug Meal
Let’s get cooking, shall we?
Step 1: Prep Work
Start by gathering all your ingredients and a microwave-safe mug or bowl. Give the mug a quick spray with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Now, let’s get those chips and chicken ready!
Step 2: Main Cooking Process
In your prepared mug, layer the tortilla chips, shredded chicken, and enchilada sauce. Top it all off with a generous helping of shredded cheese.
Step 3: Final Steps/Assembly
Pop your mug in the microwave and heat it up for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Be careful, it’ll be hot!
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Top your Savory Chicken Enchilada Mug Meal with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Voila! Your quick and easy dinner is ready to enjoy.
Variations & Time-Saver Tips
- Meal Prep: Assemble the mug ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to heat and enjoy.
- Extra Flavor: Add diced bell peppers, black beans, or a sprinkle of taco seasoning for an extra flavor boost.
- Spicy Swap: Use a spicier enchilada sauce for a kick of heat.
- Protein Swap: Try using ground beef or turkey instead of chicken for a different protein option.
Serving, Storage & Reheat
Serve with: Fresh avocado, salsa, and a side of rice or beans.
Storage: Leftovers will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Microwave Reheat: Pop the mug back in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
Make-Ahead: This Savory Chicken Enchilada Mug Meal is a great option for meal prepping. Assemble the mug ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to heat and enjoy.
Nutrition Info
This Savory Chicken Enchilada Mug Meal is a nutritious and satisfying dinner option. It’s packed with protein from the chicken, and the enchilada sauce and cheese provide a delicious source of calcium. Plus, the tortilla chips and fresh cilantro add a boost of fiber and nutrients.
- Serving Size: 1 mug meal
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 35 g
- Carbs: 35 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite shredded cheese, like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a Mexican cheese blend.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You sure can! This Savory Chicken Enchilada Mug Meal is a great make-ahead option. Just assemble the mug and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to heat and enjoy.
How can I make this gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap the tortilla chips for corn chips or gluten-free tortilla chips.
Can I use a different protein?
Definitely! You can use ground beef, turkey, or even shredded pork instead of chicken. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Is this recipe spicy?
The level of spice in this Savory Chicken Enchilada Mug Meal really depends on the enchilada sauce you use. If you prefer a milder dish, look for a mild or medium sauce. For a bit more heat, go for a spicier variety.
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Savory Chicken Enchilada Mug Meal
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Total Time: 8 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Dinner Mug Meals
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
A quick and delicious savory chicken enchilada mug meal, perfect for a satisfying dinner in minutes.
Ingredients
1 cup cooked shredded chicken
1/2 cup enchilada sauce
1/4 cup shredded cheese
1/4 cup black beans, drained
1/4 cup corn
1/4 cup diced bell peppers
1/4 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 mug for serving
Instructions
1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine the shredded chicken and enchilada sauce.
2. Add the black beans, corn, and diced bell peppers, mixing well.
3. Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine.
4. Top with shredded cheese.
5. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
6. Let cool for a minute before serving.
Notes
For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with extra beans or tofu.
Feel free to add your favorite toppings like avocado or sour cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 60mg