Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. This delightful dish features soft flour tortillas filled with tender chicken and cheese, all smothered in a rich, creamy white sauce. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy family meal, these enchiladas are sure to impress with their mouthwatering flavors and satisfying textures.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
- Flavorful: The combination of chicken, cheese, and a creamy sauce creates a deliciously rich taste that everyone will love.
- Versatile: Perfect for serving at any occasion, from casual family dinners to holiday feasts.
- Great Leftovers: These enchiladas reheat beautifully, making them ideal for meal prep or late-night snacks.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to make this dish your own!
Tools and Preparation
Before you get started on making your White Chicken Enchiladas, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process and ensure a smooth experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish (9×13)
- Mixing bowls
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Fork (for shredding chicken)
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking and proper browning of your enchiladas.
- Saucepan: Essential for making the creamy sauce that brings your enchiladas together.
- Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth sauce by breaking up lumps while you combine ingredients.
Ingredients
To create these delectable White Chicken Enchiladas, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken Filling
- 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
For the Creamy Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 4 ounces canned diced green chillies
For Assembly
- 10 soft flour tortillas
How to Make White Chicken Enchiladas
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by cooking the chicken using your preferred method—boiling, baking, or using rotisserie chicken works great. Ensure it is fully cooked before moving to the next step.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Once the chicken is cooked, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9×13 pan to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl:
1. Shred the cooked chicken with a fork if needed.
2. Add 3/4 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese or Pepper Jack cheese, garlic powder, and cream cheese to the bowl.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a saucepan:
1. Melt butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in flour and taco seasoning; cook for about 1 minute.
3. Gradually add in 2 cups of chicken broth while whisking until smooth.
4. Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheese and continue heating until thick and bubbly.
Step 5: Combine Sauce with Sour Cream
Stir in sour cream and diced green chilies into the saucepan mixture:
1. Be careful not to bring it to a boil.
2. Once combined, remove from heat.
Step 6: Assemble Enchiladas
For each tortilla:
1. Spoon some of the chicken and cheese mixture onto one end.
2. Roll up tightly and place seam side down in the baking dish.
Step 7: Add Sauce and Cheese Topping
Pour the creamy sauce over all enchiladas:
1. Sprinkle remaining shredded cheese on top.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in preheated oven for about 22 minutes:
1. Finish under high broil for an additional 3 minutes to brown the cheese on top.
Now you’re ready to serve these delicious White Chicken Enchiladas! Enjoy!
How to Serve White Chicken Enchiladas
White Chicken Enchiladas are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Consider these serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Garnish with Fresh Ingredients
- Chopped Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the enchiladas for a burst of flavor and color.
- Sliced Avocado: Add creamy avocado slices on top or on the side for added richness.
- Diced Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes provide a juicy contrast and brighten the dish.
Accompany with Sides
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the enchiladas perfectly.
- Refried Beans: Creamy beans add protein and make the meal heartier.
- Guacamole: A side of guacamole brings extra creaminess and flavor.
Pair with Beverages
- Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade balances the savory flavors of the dish.
- Iced Tea: Unsweetened iced tea offers a light beverage option that cleanses the palate.
How to Perfect White Chicken Enchiladas
Perfecting White Chicken Enchiladas requires attention to detail in both preparation and presentation. Here are some tips to ensure delicious results.
- Cook chicken thoroughly: Ensure that your chicken is fully cooked and tender for easy shredding.
- Use quality cheese: Opt for high-quality Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese for the best melting properties.
- Don’t overfill tortillas: Fill each tortilla just enough to roll without bursting; this prevents mess during baking.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to modify taco seasoning or add spices based on personal preference for more flavor depth.
Best Side Dishes for White Chicken Enchiladas
To create a well-rounded meal, pairing side dishes with your White Chicken Enchiladas is essential. Here are some excellent options.
- Mexican Rice: A classic side made with tomatoes, garlic, and spices that complements the enchiladas beautifully.
- Refried Beans: Creamy beans seasoned with spices, perfect for scooping alongside enchiladas.
- Guacamole: A rich dip made from avocados that adds creaminess and freshness to each bite.
- Corn Salad: A vibrant salad featuring corn, peppers, and lime juice adds a crunchy texture.
- Pico de Gallo: Fresh salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro provides a zesty kick.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned veggies grilled to perfection lend a smoky flavor that balances the meal.
- Tortilla Chips: Crisp chips can be served with salsa or guacamole as a crunchy appetizer.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making White Chicken Enchiladas, it’s easy to slip up. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:
- Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold ingredients can affect the texture of your enchiladas. Always let cream cheese and shredded cheese warm up a bit before mixing.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Dry chicken can ruin your dish. Cook until just done; it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Not Greasing the Pan: Skipping this step can lead to sticking. Always grease your baking dish to ensure easy removal of enchiladas.
- Skipping the Sauce Layer: The sauce adds moisture and flavor. Don’t forget to generously cover the enchiladas before baking.
- Rushing the Broiling Step: Broiling too long can burn the cheese. Keep a close eye on it for that perfect golden finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow enchiladas to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing White Chicken Enchiladas
- Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- To prevent freezer burn, wrap tightly in plastic wrap before placing in a container.
Reheating White Chicken Enchiladas
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, covering with a lid until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making White Chicken Enchiladas.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! You can substitute Monterey Jack with Cheddar or even a blend of cheeses for added flavor.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
To add spice, include diced jalapeños or use spicy Pepper Jack cheese in your filling.
Can I prepare these enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the enchiladas and store them in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
What should I serve with White Chicken Enchiladas?
These enchiladas pair well with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
White Chicken Enchiladas are a creamy, cheesy delight that makes dinner easy and satisfying. This versatile recipe is perfect for customization—add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own. Give it a try and enjoy a hearty meal that everyone will love!
White Chicken Enchiladas
Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas are the ultimate comfort food, providing a delightful blend of flavors and textures that are perfect for any occasion. Soft flour tortillas envelop a rich filling of tender chicken and cheese, all generously coated in a smooth white sauce. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these enchiladas promise to satisfy your cravings. With easy preparation steps and simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Serve these enchiladas with fresh garnishes and your favorite sides for an unforgettable dining experience.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 10 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2.5 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or Pepper Jack cheese)
- 5 ounces cream cheese
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 10 soft flour tortillas
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 4 ounces canned diced green chilies
Instructions
- Cook the chicken until fully done using boiling, baking, or rotisserie methods.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- Shred the cooked chicken and mix with cream cheese, garlic powder, and 3/4 cup shredded cheese in a bowl.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat; whisk in flour and taco seasoning for about one minute.
- Gradually stir in chicken broth until smooth; add remaining shredded cheese until thickened.
- Combine sour cream and diced green chilies into the sauce mixture and remove from heat.
- Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture, roll tightly, and place seam side down in the baking dish.
- Pour creamy sauce over enchiladas and sprinkle with remaining cheese; bake for 22 minutes and broil for an additional 3 minutes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 75mg