
These protein-rich chicken enchiladas put a fresh twist on a classic Mexican favorite without sacrificing flavor. We've snuck cottage cheese into the mixture, bumping up the protein to an impressive 27g per portion while maintaining that smooth, cheesy texture everyone loves. The combo of juicy chicken, mild cottage cheese, and bold seasonings creates a filling that's not just tasty but satisfying without the heavy feeling afterward.
I came up with this recipe when looking for ways to boost the protein in traditional enchiladas. The best part? When I served them to friends without telling them about the cottage cheese trick, nobody noticed! They just couldn't stop talking about how creamy and delicious the filling was. These have become my go-to meal, especially during those hectic weeks when I need quick dinners that won't skimp on protein.
Ingredients
Round up these items to make your Cottage Cheese Chicken Enchiladas:
- Shredded rotisserie chicken: 2½ cups, saves time and adds ready-to-use lean protein.
- 2% low fat cottage cheese: ¾ cup, adds creaminess and extra protein without many calories.
- Green chilies, diced: ½ of a 4 oz can, adds gentle heat and authentic flavor.
- Taco seasoning: 1½ tbsp, brings all those tasty Southwest spices together.
- Salt: To taste, enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Low carb tortillas: 6 pieces give you the right base with fewer carbs.
- Enchilada sauce: ¾ cup, delivers that signature tangy flavor.
- Mexican cheese blend, shredded: 1 cup, creates that irresistible melty top layer.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps for amazing Cottage Cheese Chicken Enchiladas every time:
- Prep Your Baking Dish
- Warm your oven to 350°F. Give a 9×13-inch baking dish a quick spray and spread ½ cup enchilada sauce on the bottom.
- Create Your Protein-Packed Filling
- Throw together your shredded chicken, cottage cheese, taco seasoning, and green chilies in a bowl. Stir everything well and add salt as needed.
- Assemble Your Enchiladas
- Put about ½ cup of chicken mix onto each tortilla, sprinkle some cheese, then roll them tightly and place them with the seam facing down in your dish.
- Add The Finishing Touches
- Pour the remaining ¼ cup of enchilada sauce over your rolled tortillas and scatter the leftover cheese across the top.
- Cook Until Golden
- Cover with foil and pop in the oven for 15 minutes. Then remove the foil and cook another 10 minutes until the cheese turns golden and starts bubbling.
- Let Them Rest
- Wait about 5 minutes before serving. Add fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a spoonful of Greek yogurt if you want.

Perfect For Meal Prep
These enchiladas are a meal-prepper's dream. They heat up perfectly in the microwave and can hang out in your freezer for up to two months without losing quality.

When I started making these enchiladas, I was worried the cottage cheese would stand out too much, but it blends in completely while making everything ultra creamy. I've tried switching up the proteins too. Turkey leftovers work amazingly after holiday meals, and black beans make a terrific vegetarian option. What gets me most about this dish is how it transforms what's normally an indulgent meal into something that actually fits my fitness plan, without feeling like I'm missing out on anything.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What's a good low-carb tortilla option?
- You can find plenty of choices, like almond or coconut flour wraps and wheat blends with added fiber. Mission Carb Balance and La Tortilla Factory are great brands. Stick to ones with 5-8g net carbs for the lowest count.
- → What can I use instead of cottage cheese?
- Ricotta cheese is a good alternative, or Greek yogurt if you like a tangier flavor. Cream cheese works too—just soften it first since it’s heavier. All of these options keep it creamy and low in carbs!
- → Do these wraps have much spice?
- Not really, the green chilies give them just a slight kick. You can use only half the can for a super mild flavor or swap in a mild sauce. If you’re into spicy food, just pick a hotter enchilada sauce!
- → Can I make them ahead and freeze them?
- Yep, just assemble them without baking first. Wrap them tight to avoid freezer burn, then freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready, thaw in the fridge and bake as usual, adding a few more minutes if needed.
- → What goes well with these wraps?
- Try cauliflower rice or a fresh avocado salad for a low-carb side. Roasted vegetables like peppers or zucchini pair well, too. A bit of guac, sour cream, or pico de gallo on top is always a nice touch!