Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas are a delightful twist on traditional enchiladas, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. These flavorful enchiladas are filled with tender shredded chicken and gooey cheese, all enveloped in warm flour tortillas and topped with a rich white sauce. They are sure to impress family and friends alike while being easy to prepare!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make – With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-packed – The combination of creamy cheese, savory chicken, and zesty green chilies creates a delicious flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.
- Versatile dish – These enchiladas can be customized with your favorite ingredients, making them suitable for various dietary preferences.
- Great for meal prep – Prepare these enchiladas ahead of time and bake when ready to serve for a stress-free meal.
- Comfort food favorite – This dish is the epitome of comfort food, making it ideal for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating the perfect White Chicken Enchiladas.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Fork
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13 baking dish – This size is perfect for holding all the enchiladas while allowing them to bake evenly.
- Mixing bowls – Having multiple bowls helps keep your ingredients organized during preparation.
- Saucepan – Essential for creating the creamy sauce that brings all the flavors together.
- Whisk – Perfect for achieving a smooth consistency in your sauce without lumps.
Ingredients
For these delightful White Chicken Enchiladas, you will need:
- 2 cups boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2.5 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or Pepper Jack cheese)
- 5 ounces cream cheese
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 4 ounces canned diced green chilies
- 10 soft flour tortillas
How to Make White Chicken Enchiladas
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by cooking the chicken using your preferred method. You can boil, bake, or even use a rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Once your chicken is thoroughly cooked, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While it heats up, grease a 9×13 baking pan with some butter or cooking spray.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, shred the cooked chicken using a fork if needed. Add in:
1. 3/4 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or Pepper Jack cheese)
2. Garlic powder
3. Cream cheese
Mix well until all ingredients are combined into a creamy filling.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat:
1. Melt butter.
2. Stir in flour and taco seasoning; cook for about one minute.
3. Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth.
Continue heating until thick and bubbly before adding:
1. Half cup of shredded cheese.
2. Stir in sour cream and green chilies without bringing to a boil.
Remove from heat once combined.
Step 5: Assemble the Enchiladas
Take each tortilla shell and fill it with some of the chicken mixture. Roll them up tightly and place them seam-side down in the greased baking dish.
Step 6: Add Sauce and Cheese Topping
Pour the prepared sauce over all the rolled enchiladas in the baking pan. Top with any remaining shredded cheese.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in your preheated oven for about 22 minutes. For an extra touch, switch on high broil for an additional three minutes to brown the top cheese layer slightly.
Enjoy your homemade White Chicken Enchiladas warm!
How to Serve White Chicken Enchiladas
White Chicken Enchiladas are a delicious and versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.
Toppings
- Fresh Cilantro – Add a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness.
- Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream can add creaminess and balance the flavors.
- Guacamole – Creamy guacamole enhances the richness and adds a delightful texture.
Sides
- Mexican Rice – Serve with a side of flavorful Mexican rice to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Refried Beans – Creamy refried beans are a classic accompaniment, providing protein and fiber.
- Corn Salad – A refreshing corn salad brings sweetness and crunch, perfect for contrast.
Garnishes
- Lime Wedges – Squeeze fresh lime juice over the enchiladas to brighten the flavors.
- Chopped Green Onions – Sprinkle chopped green onions for an added crunch and flavor boost.
How to Perfect White Chicken Enchiladas
Perfecting your White Chicken Enchiladas can take them from good to great. Here are some essential tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken – For quick preparation, use a store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking.
- Mix Cheese Varieties – Combine Monterey Jack with Pepper Jack cheese for an extra kick of flavor and creaminess.
- Don’t Overcook the Sauce – When adding sour cream, avoid boiling the sauce to maintain its smooth texture.
- Warm Tortillas First – Heat tortillas briefly in a skillet or microwave; this makes them easier to roll without tearing.
- Adjust Seasoning – Taste your filling mixture before rolling; adjust seasoning as needed for personal preference.
- Broil for Crispiness – Broiling the enchiladas at the end gives a nice golden crust on top, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
Best Side Dishes for White Chicken Enchiladas
Pairing side dishes with your White Chicken Enchiladas can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some delicious options that complement this dish beautifully.
- Spanish Rice – Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices is a classic pairing that complements enchiladas well.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with butter provides a delightful crunch alongside creamy enchiladas.
- Black Bean Salad – This refreshing salad combines black beans, corn, and peppers for a nutritious side that adds color.
- Chips and Salsa – Crispy tortilla chips served with zesty salsa make for an excellent appetizer before diving into the main dish.
- Cabbage Slaw – A crunchy slaw with lime dressing adds freshness and balances the richness of enchiladas.
- Zucchini Fritters – These lightly fried fritters are tasty and provide a healthy vegetable option on the side.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making White Chicken Enchiladas can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for juicy, tender chicken.
- Skipping the Sauce: A creamy sauce is essential for moist enchiladas. Don’t skip this step; it adds flavor and keeps the tortillas from getting soggy.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold cream cheese can make mixing difficult. Allow it to come to room temperature for easier blending.
- Not Greasing the Pan: Failing to grease your baking dish can cause the enchiladas to stick. Always grease your dish well before adding the enchiladas.
- Filling Tortillas Too Full: Overfilling tortillas can lead to spills during rolling. Use just enough filling for easy rolling without tearing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover White Chicken Enchiladas in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing White Chicken Enchiladas
- Freeze enchiladas before baking for best results.
- Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or use freezer-safe containers.
- They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating White Chicken Enchiladas
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave: Place enchiladas on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes or until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, covering it with a lid, until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making White Chicken Enchiladas.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to use any cheese you prefer, such as cheddar or a blend of cheeses for added flavor.
How do I spice up my White Chicken Enchiladas?
Consider adding more taco seasoning or jalapeños for extra heat. You can also top with fresh cilantro or avocado.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the enchiladas and sauce ahead of time, then store them in the fridge or freeze before baking.
What can I serve with White Chicken Enchiladas?
Pair your enchiladas with rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
Final Thoughts
White Chicken Enchiladas are not only delicious but also very versatile. You can customize them with different proteins or toppings according to your taste. This easy-to-make Mexican dish is perfect for dinner and sure to impress family and friends alike!
Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas, a delightful Mexican-inspired dish perfect for any occasion. These enchiladas feature tender shredded chicken enveloped in soft flour tortillas, generously covered with a rich and creamy white sauce. With their savory combination of cheese, zesty green chilies, and a hint of garlic, they are sure to become a favorite among family and friends. Easy to prepare and highly customizable, this recipe allows you to create a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed any night of the week.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2.5 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or Pepper Jack cheese)
- 5 ounces cream cheese
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 4 ounces canned diced green chilies
- 10 soft flour tortillas
Instructions
- Cook the chicken using your preferred method until fully cooked. Shred it once cooled.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, ¾ cup cheese, garlic powder, and cream cheese until creamy.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter, stir in flour and taco seasoning for one minute, then gradually whisk in chicken broth until thickened. Remove from heat; stir in remaining cheese, sour cream, and green chilies.
- Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Pour sauce over enchiladas and top with remaining cheese.
- Bake for about 22 minutes; broil for an additional three minutes for extra crispiness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 enchilada (175g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: For convenience, use rotisserie chicken to save time. Feel free to mix different cheeses for added flavor. Warm tortillas slightly before filling to prevent tearing.