Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas

In my kitchen, creamy white chicken enchiladas are a favorite go-to, especially on busy weeknights when comfort food is in high demand. These enchiladas are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, wrapping tender chicken in soft tortillas and smothering everything in a velvety white sauce topped with bubbly cheese. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles, and it’s surprisingly easy to make!

Why You’ll Love This Dish

What makes this recipe truly special is its incredible blend of flavors and textures. The creamy white sauce pairs beautifully with the savory chicken and a hint of spice from the green chiles, creating a dish that is satisfying yet light. Ideal for a family brunch, a cozy dinner, or even when you’re hosting friends, these enchiladas never fail to impress.

Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 6

The Cooking Process Explained

Let’s walk through how to create these delightful creamy white chicken enchiladas. Here’s your step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

What You’ll Need

• 8-10 medium flour tortillas
• 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (divided)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1/2 cup diced green chiles (canned or fresh)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 3 tablespoons butter (for white sauce)
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for roux)
• 2 cups chicken broth (for white sauce)
• 1 cup sour cream (room temperature)
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin (ground)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start by melting the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until it forms a smooth paste and turns light golden. This is your roux, the base for the creamy sauce.
2. Gradually add the chicken broth to the roux, whisking all the while to prevent lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and is smooth, which should take around 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and mix in sour cream, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. In a mixing bowl, toss together shredded chicken, diced onion, green chiles, cilantro, and 1 cup of the cheese mixture. Mix thoroughly to ensure the filling is flavorful throughout.
4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a greased 9×13 baking dish and spread a thin layer of the white sauce at the bottom. Spoon about 1/3 cup of the chicken mixture down the center of each tortilla, roll them tightly, and place seam-side down in the dish.
5. Pour the remaining white sauce evenly over the rolled enchiladas, ensuring they’re completely covered. Top with the remaining Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese for that golden, bubbly finish.
6. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling around the edges and the cheese is melted and golden brown. Let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

These creamy white chicken enchiladas are wonderfully versatile. Serve them hot straight from the oven, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and perhaps a dollop of sour cream. They pair beautifully with a crisp green salad or some Mexican-style rice. For the adults, a refreshing margarita or a chilled glass of white wine makes a perfect companion!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have any leftovers (which is rare because they’re so delicious!), let them cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them before baking – just wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake from frozen, extending the baking time by a few minutes. Always ensure to reheat leftovers to at least 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.

Helpful Cooking Tips

• For extra flavor, consider adding spices like paprika or chili powder to the chicken mixture.
• You can bulk up the filling with black beans or corn for added texture and nutrition.
• If you’re short on time, feel free to use pre-shredded cheese and a rotisserie chicken to speed things up!

Creative Twists

Feel free to customize this recipe! Try adding some diced jalapeños for an extra kick, or swap the shredded chicken for beef or turkey for a different take. You could also make it gluten-free by using corn tortillas and ensuring your broth and seasonings are certified gluten-free.

Nutrition Table

Now, armed with this recipe, you’re ready to create something truly delightful in your kitchen! Enjoy those creamy white chicken enchiladas and watch your loved ones savor every bite.