Roasted Chili Verde Chicken Enchiladas

Admittedly, this is not the most visually appealing meal that I've ever posted.  The grainy green sauce doesn't look very appetizing but in this case - I'm happy to say that looks are deceiving.  The green Chili Verde sauce was absolutely bursting with fresh flavor.  The roasted tomatillos, poblanos and onions a whole new layer and dimension of flavor that was truly special.  

Roasted Chili Verde Chicken Enchiladas
2 pounds tomatillos
4 poblano chilies, halved lengthwise
1 yellow onion, quartered
6 cloves garlic
1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
2 teaspoons cumin
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
2 Tablespoons olive oil
4 chicken breasts
16 corn tortillas
1 1/2 cups Mexican blend cheese
1/2 cup 2% plain Greek yogurt

Place husked tomatillos, poblanos, onion and garlic on a greased baking sheet.  ​Broil 12 minutes or until well charred.  Let cool 5 minutes.

Place vegetables, and accumulated juices, into food processor along with cilantro, cumin, 1/2 t. salt and pepper. Process until smooth. 

Sprinkle chicken with 1/2 t. salt and pepper.  Heat oil in dutch oven.  Cook chicken until browned. Transfer chicken to a plate to cool OR shred precooked chicken.

 Pour tomatillo mixture into Dutch oven.  Bring to a boil.  Cook 3-5 minutes or until thickened.  If using raw chicken, return chicken to pan.  Allow to cook until temperature of chicken reaches 165.  ​Remove chicken and allow to cool.  Shred chicken

Spread 1/4 cup tomatillo mixture into the bottom of 2 greased 7x11 inch baking dishes.  

Spoon 1/4 shredded chicken on each tortilla.  Fold into thirds and arrange in dishes.  

Spread 3/4 cup reserved tomatillo mixture over enchiladas.  Sprinkle each with 3/4 cup cheese.  

Cover pans with foil and bake 15 minutes at 350.  Remove foil and broil 1-2 minutes.  

Serve enchiladas with with 1 Tablespoon yogurt and chopped cilantro. 

If your'e new to the world of tomatillos and poblanos - make sure you choose nice fresh, plump vegetables that are free from blemishes.  Old tomatillos can lead to an overly tangy and off-putting flavored sauce so make sure you choose the freshest available.  

Ciao!

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