Chicken Enchilada Dip Cheese

The first time I brought this dip to a Super Bowl party, my friend Sarah literally hovered over the baking dish until it came out of the oven. She kept asking if it was done yet, inhaling that incredible cheese and spice aroma that fills the whole kitchen. By the time I set it on the table, everyone abandoned their assigned snacks and formed a semi-circle around the dip with chips at the ready. Now it is the only thing anyone ever asks me to bring.

Last winter my roommate and I made this on a snowy Sunday when we had no real plans but to eat comfort food and watch movies. We ended up standing at the counter eating it straight from the dish with whatever crackers we could find in the back of the pantry. Sometimes the best meals are the ones you did not plan at all.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast: Rotisserie chicken works beautifully here and saves so much time
• 8 oz cream cheese: Make sure it is fully softened so you do not end up with lumps in your sauce
• 1 cup sour cream: This adds that tangy creaminess that cuts through all the rich cheese
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives you the best flavor punch
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack: Melts beautifully and balances the cheddar
• 1 cup red enchilada sauce: Use your favorite brand or make your own if you have time
• 1/2 tsp cumin: This is the secret ingredient that makes it taste like actual enchiladas
• 1/2 tsp chili powder: Adds warmth without making it too spicy
• 1/2 cup canned corn: Sweet little bursts that balance the savory elements
• 1/4 cup black beans: They add texture and make it feel like a complete meal
• 1 small jalapeño: Leave this out if you are feeding a crowd that hates heat

Instructions

Get everything ready:

Preheat your oven to 375°F and shred that chicken if you have not already

Mix the creamy base:

Beat together the cream cheese, sour cream, and enchilada sauce until absolutely smooth

Add all the spices:

Sprinkle in cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and salt

Fold in the good stuff:

Gently mix in the chicken, corn, beans, jalapeño, cilantro, green onions, and half the cheese

Get it in the dish:

Spread the mixture into your baking dish and top with all that remaining cheese

Let it get bubbly:

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is golden and the edges are bubbling

Finish it off:

Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and green onions and serve immediately

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This dip has become my go-to for new neighbors and housewarming gifts because it makes people feel immediately at home. Something about warm, cheesy food just breaks the ice better than any awkward small talk could.

Make It Ahead

You can assemble everything in the baking dish up to a day ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold going into the oven.

Serving Ideas

Beyond tortilla chips, try serving this with sliced bell peppers, cucumber rounds, or even warm tortillas. I once served it inside a hollowed-out bread bowl and people practically fought over the soggy cheese-soaked bread afterward.

Reheating Leftovers

This dip reheats surprisingly well in the microwave, though the oven gives you back that beautiful golden cheese crust on top.

• Sprinkle a little fresh cheese on top before reheating
• Add a splash of enchilada sauce if it seems too thick
• Never reheat more than once or the texture gets weird

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Hope this becomes your new favorite thing to bring to gatherings, just do not be surprised when you start getting text messages about it days later.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves prep time while keeping the dip flavorful and tender.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Adding extra diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce enhances the heat to your preference.

→ What cheese combinations work best?

A mix of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack provides creamy texture and balanced flavor.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dip in advance and refrigerate, then bake just before serving for fresh, warm results.

→ What to serve alongside this dip?

Tortilla chips, sliced bell peppers, or celery sticks pair well and offer a refreshing crunch.