Bushra Griffith
Chicken and cheese enchiladas are a delicious staple of Tex-Mex cuisine, but how many calories do they contain? Well, it depends on the ingredients and where you buy them. A typical homemade enchilada might contain 510 calories, while a restaurant-style grilled enchilada could have over 1,000 calories. However, some restaurants offer healthier options with only 140 calories per enchilada. Ready-made, refrigerated enchiladas from grocery stores and delis may have fewer calories, typically around 357, but they tend to be high in sodium. A single enchilada can also provide a good source of protein, potassium, and calcium. So, while chicken and cheese enchiladas can be a tasty treat, it's important to be mindful of their calorie content and nutritional value.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Calories | 197-1,000+ calories per enchilada, depending on preparation and ingredients |
| Fat | 8.3-47 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 6-20 grams |
| Protein | 15.2-55 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 15.4-60 grams |
| Cholesterol | 56-90 milligrams |
| Sodium | 360-3,140 milligrams |
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What You'll Learn
Calorie count varies with ingredients and portion size
The calorie count of chicken and cheese enchiladas varies depending on the ingredients used and the portion size. Enchiladas are a staple of Tex-Mex cuisine, blending tender, shredded chicken, cheese, and tortillas smothered in a rich, spicy sauce. While this makes for a delicious meal, it can also be calorie-dense.
The type of cheese, chicken cut, tortilla variety, and sauce ingredients all influence the calorie count. For example, a single enchilada made with full-fat cheese, dark chicken meat, and topped with a green chili white sauce can contain around 510 calories, with 220 calories coming from fat. In contrast, using reduced-fat cheese and poached chicken breast can lower the calorie count. A commercially prepared frozen enchilada with white chicken meat and a corn tortilla topped with ancho chili sauce may contain around 320 calories.
The portion size also significantly impacts the calorie count. A single enchilada typically ranges from 200 to 350 calories, while a larger serving of three enchiladas can total around 700 to 1,050 calories. Restaurant-style grilled chicken enchiladas can be even higher in calories, sometimes exceeding 1,000 calories per serving, due to their larger portions and higher fat content. On the other hand, some restaurants offer healthier options with only 140 calories per enchilada.
The calorie count can also vary depending on the brand or recipe used. For instance, one recipe for cheesy chicken enchiladas results in approximately 436 calories per enchilada. Another source suggests that a single enchilada that is 6 inches long with a 6-inch diameter tortilla contains about 197 calories.
In summary, the calorie count of chicken and cheese enchiladas can range widely, from around 150 to over 1,000 calories per enchilada, depending on the specific ingredients, recipe, brand, and portion size.
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Restaurant enchiladas can exceed 1000 calories
Chicken and cheese enchiladas are a delicious blend of tender, shredded chicken and gooey cheese wrapped in soft corn tortillas, smothered in a rich, spicy enchilada sauce. While they are a tasty treat, they can be calorie-dense depending on the ingredients used and portion sizes.
The calorie count of chicken and cheese enchiladas varies based on the recipe and the ingredients used. For example, the type of cheese, chicken cut, tortilla variety, and sauce ingredients all play a role in determining the nutritional value. Generally, chicken enchiladas prepared with full-fat cheese, dark chicken meat, and a green chili white sauce tend to have higher calories and fat content.
Restaurant-style grilled chicken enchiladas, for instance, can pack more than 1,000 calories in a single serving. This high calorie count is attributed to the combination of ingredients used. These enchiladas typically contain around 47 grams of fat, 20 grams of saturated fat, and offer about 55 grams of protein. They are also a significant source of carbohydrates, with approximately 105 grams, of which 6% might be dietary fiber.
In addition to the high calorie count, these restaurant-style enchiladas often contain excessive amounts of sodium. A single serving may contain up to 3,140 milligrams of sodium, far exceeding the recommended limit of 2,300 milligrams for healthy adults suggested by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
However, it is important to note that not all restaurant enchiladas are created equal. Some restaurants offer healthier options with significantly lower calorie counts. These healthier versions may contain around 140 calories, 3 grams of fat, 1 gram of saturated fat, and 360 milligrams of sodium.
To make chicken and cheese enchiladas part of a healthy, balanced diet, it is advisable to opt for homemade versions, where you can control the ingredients and portion sizes. Using reduced-fat cheese, poached chicken breast, and watching your portion sizes can help reduce the calorie and fat intake.
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Calories can be reduced with low-fat cheese and chicken breast
Chicken and cheese enchiladas are a delicious blend of tender, shredded chicken and gooey cheese wrapped in soft tortillas. However, they can be calorie-dense, with the calorie count varying depending on the ingredients and portion size. A typical serving of one 283-gram homemade enchilada might contain around 510 calories, with about 43% of the calories coming from fat. Restaurant-style grilled chicken enchiladas without rice or beans can contain over 1000 calories, while a typical fresh enchilada might contain around 357 calories.
To reduce the calorie count, one effective strategy is to use low-fat cheese. Cheese is a major contributor to the calorie content of enchiladas, and switching to reduced-fat cheese can make a significant difference. For example, a single enchilada made with full-fat cheese might contain around 9 grams of saturated fat, while one made with low-fat cheese may have only 1 gram of saturated fat.
Another way to cut down on calories is to opt for chicken breast instead of dark chicken meat. Chicken breast is a leaner cut of meat, with fewer calories and less fat. Poached chicken breast is a healthier option, as it avoids adding extra fat during the cooking process. By choosing chicken breast, you can reduce the overall calorie count and the amount of saturated fat in your enchiladas.
Additionally, portion control is crucial when it comes to managing calorie intake. Oversized portions can quickly increase the number of calories consumed. Aim for moderate-sized enchiladas, and be mindful of the number of enchiladas you consume in one sitting.
Finally, the type of tortilla and sauce used can also impact the calorie count. Corn tortillas tend to be lower in calories than flour tortillas. Choosing a healthier sauce, such as a chili sauce, can also reduce the calorie content. For example, a commercially prepared frozen chicken enchilada with a corn tortilla and ancho chili sauce may contain around 320 calories.
By making conscious choices, such as using low-fat cheese, opting for chicken breast, controlling portions, and selecting the right tortillas and sauces, you can significantly reduce the calorie count of chicken and cheese enchiladas while still enjoying this flavorful and hearty dish.
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Ready-made enchiladas are typically high in sodium
Chicken and cheese enchiladas are a delicious blend of tender, shredded chicken and gooey cheese wrapped in soft corn tortillas, smothered in a rich, spicy enchilada sauce. They are a staple in Tex-Mex cuisine, offering bold flavours and comforting textures. While they can be a good source of protein and calcium, enchiladas can also be calorie-dense, depending on the ingredients used. The calorie count for chicken and cheese enchiladas varies depending on the recipe and the portion size, but they typically range from 197 to over 1,000 calories per serving.
The high sodium content in ready-made enchiladas is worth noting, as sodium intake is an important factor in maintaining a healthy diet. While sodium is an essential mineral that helps maintain fluid balance and nerve function in the body, excessive sodium intake can lead to health issues. High sodium consumption has been linked to increased blood pressure, which can raise the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke. Therefore, it is crucial to be mindful of the sodium content in ready-made enchiladas and other processed foods.
To reduce sodium intake while enjoying enchiladas, there are a few strategies to consider. Firstly, opt for homemade enchiladas whenever possible, as you can control the ingredients and their quantities. Choose recipes that use reduced-fat cheese and poached chicken breast, as these can help lower the calorie and fat content. Additionally, look for recipes that include healthy, low-sodium ingredients, such as vegetables, herbs, and spices, to enhance flavour without relying heavily on salt.
When purchasing ready-made enchiladas, carefully read the nutrition labels and compare products to find options with lower sodium content. Some brands may offer reduced-sodium or low-sodium variations, which can be a healthier choice. It is also beneficial to check the serving size indicated on the label and ensure it aligns with the recommended serving sizes for enchiladas, which are typically around 283 grams per enchilada. By being mindful of portion sizes and choosing lower-sodium alternatives, individuals can enjoy enchiladas as part of a balanced diet while managing their sodium intake.
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Enchiladas are a good source of protein and calcium
Enchiladas are a tasty and indulgent treat, but they can also be a good source of protein and calcium. Chicken and cheese enchiladas, in particular, offer a hearty meal and are a great way to get your daily dose of these essential nutrients.
Protein is essential for maintaining and building body tissues, and enchiladas can be a good source of this macronutrient. The protein content in chicken and cheese enchiladas can vary depending on the ingredients and portion size, but on average, a single enchilada can provide between 15.2 grams and 23.5 grams of protein. This means that enchiladas can contribute significantly to your daily protein requirements, which is especially beneficial for those who lead active lifestyles or are looking to build muscle mass.
Calcium, another crucial nutrient, is abundant in cheese enchiladas. Cheese is a well-known source of calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth. While the exact amount of calcium in chicken and cheese enchiladas can vary, a single enchilada can provide around 51% of your daily value of calcium. This makes enchiladas an excellent choice for those looking to boost their calcium intake.
It is worth noting that the calorie count of enchiladas can be high, ranging from 197 to over 1000 calories per enchilada, depending on the ingredients and portion size. To make chicken and cheese enchiladas a healthier option, you can opt for reduced-fat cheese, poached chicken breast, and whole-wheat tortillas. Additionally, avoiding oversized portions and choosing low-fat and low-sodium options can help reduce the calorie intake while still enjoying this delicious dish.
In conclusion, chicken and cheese enchiladas can be a good source of both protein and calcium. By being mindful of portion sizes and choosing healthier ingredients, you can enjoy this tasty treat while also reaping the nutritional benefits of these essential nutrients.
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Frequently asked questions
This depends on the ingredients and where it was purchased. A typical homemade enchilada is around 510 calories, while a grocery store or deli enchilada is typically 357 calories. A restaurant enchilada can be over 1,000 calories.
The cut of chicken, type of cheese, tortilla variety, and sauce ingredients all impact the calorie count. For example, enchiladas made with full-fat cheese, dark chicken meat, and topped with a green chilli white sauce may contain 220 calories from fat alone.
To reduce the calorie count, use reduced-fat cheese and poached chicken breast. You can also avoid oversized portions and opt for healthier enchiladas that are low in fat and sodium.
Chicken and cheese enchiladas from restaurants typically range from 200 to 1,000+ calories. Groceries and delis offer enchiladas with fewer calories, typically around 357, while homemade enchiladas tend to be around 510 calories.
