Gluten-Free Chicken Enchiladas with Homemade Corn Tortillas

Celiac.com 06/28/2025 – Few dishes capture the soul of Mexican home cooking like enchiladas — tender tortillas wrapped around savory fillings, bathed in rich sauces, and baked to perfection. Originating from Aztec times, enchiladas were first created with corn tortillas dipped in chili sauces and filled with small portions of fish or beans. As the dish evolved through centuries of Spanish and regional influence, it became a beloved staple across households in Mexico and beyond. Today, enchiladas are endlessly adaptable and perfect for gluten-free living, thanks to their roots in naturally gluten-free corn.

This recipe honors that heritage by using homemade corn tortillas made from masa harina — the same nixtamalized corn flour used for generations — and pairs them with tender shredded chicken, a vibrant green chile sauce, and a melty dairy-free cheese option if needed. The result is a tray of warm, comforting enchiladas that taste both traditional and fresh, all while being safe for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Ingredients

Celiac.com Sponsor (A12):



For the Corn Tortillas (Makes about 12 small tortillas):

• 2 cups masa harina (make sure it’s labeled gluten-free)
• 1 ½ cups warm water
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Chicken Filling:

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well if gluten-free)
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of ½ lime

For the Green Chile Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles (or ½ cup roasted green chiles)
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 cup chicken broth (make sure it’s gluten-free)
• Salt to taste
• Optional: ¼ cup fresh cilantro for blending

For Assembly:

• 1 to 1½ cups dairy-free shredded cheese (or regular cheese if tolerated)
• Chopped fresh cilantro and green onions, for garnish
• Optional: dairy-free sour cream or avocado slices

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Tortillas

1. In a large bowl, mix the masa harina and salt, then slowly add the warm water while stirring with your hands.
2. Knead the dough for a few minutes until soft but not sticky. If too dry, add more water a tablespoon at a time.
3. Divide into 12 equal portions and roll into balls. Cover with a damp towel to keep moist.
4. Using a tortilla press or rolling pin, flatten each ball between two pieces of parchment or plastic.
5. Heat a dry skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook each tortilla for 30–60 seconds on each side until lightly browned. Keep warm under a towel.

Step 2: Make the Green Chile Sauce

1. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft (about 5 minutes).
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
3. Stir in green chiles, oregano, and chicken broth. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
4. Optional: Blend the sauce in a blender with fresh cilantro until smooth.
5. Return to pan and season with salt to taste.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cumin, garlic powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir in ¼ cup of the green chile sauce to moisten the filling.

Step 4: Assemble the Enchiladas

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread ¼ cup green chile sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Fill each tortilla with 2–3 tablespoons of chicken mixture and a sprinkle of cheese (if using), then roll tightly and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
4. Pour remaining green chile sauce over the enchiladas and top with more cheese.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden on top.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped cilantro, green onions, and optional dairy-free sour cream or avocado slices before serving.

Conclusion

These gluten-free chicken enchiladas with homemade corn tortillas are more than just dinner — they’re a nod to the enduring flavors and traditions of Mexican cooking. By crafting your own corn tortillas and using naturally gluten-free ingredients, you get full control over taste and safety without sacrificing satisfaction. Whether you’re feeding a family or treating yourself, this dish brings warmth, flavor, and peace of mind to any table. Perfect for gluten-free living — and delicious for everyone.