Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas are a delightful dish that combines the comforting flavors of chicken, cheese, and spices wrapped in soft tortillas. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings with friends, or even a cozy night in. With its creamy sauce and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful and Satisfying: Combining shredded chicken with rich cheeses and spices ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
- Versatile Toppings: Customize your enchiladas with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or spicy jalapeños to suit your taste.
- Great for Meal Prep: Prepare a large batch ahead of time; these enchiladas reheat beautifully for leftovers.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy goodness, making it an ideal meal for families.
Tools and Preparation
To make these Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas, you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Oven
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Skillet
- Cooking spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Oven: Ensures even cooking and melting of cheese for a perfect finish.
- Baking dish: Holds all the ingredients together as they bake to perfection.
- Skillet: Great for sautéing onions and garlic to enhance flavor before assembling.
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
Additional Seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Assembly
- 12 small flour tortillas (or corn tortillas if preferred)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (for topping)
Garnishes
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Sliced green onions
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced jalapeños
How to Make Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your enchiladas bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a skillet over medium heat:
1. Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Mix in the shredded chicken, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet:
1. Add another tablespoon of butter if needed.
2. Whisk in 4 tablespoons of flour until smooth.
3. Gradually add 2 cups of chicken broth while whisking continuously until thickened.
4. Stir in sour cream and diced green chilies until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Assemble the Enchiladas
- Spread about half of the sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture and roll them up tightly.
- Place seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Pour remaining sauce over the enchiladas and top with shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in preheated oven for 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Enjoy your delicious Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas topped with chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, jalapeños, salsa or guacamole!
How to Serve Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas are not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. You can elevate this dish with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors and add vibrant textures.
With Fresh Toppings
- Chopped fresh cilantro – Adds a burst of freshness and color.
- Sliced green onions – Provides a mild onion flavor.
- Diced tomatoes – Offers a juicy, tangy contrast.
- Sliced jalapeños – For those who enjoy a spicy kick.
Accompanied by Dips
- Salsa – A classic pairing that adds zest and acidity.
- Guacamole – Creamy avocado balances the richness of the enchiladas.
- Sour cream – A cool topping that complements the spices.
Served with Sides
- Mexican rice – Fluffy rice seasoned with spices enhances the meal.
- Refried beans – Creamy beans add protein and texture.
How to Perfect Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
To ensure your Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas are a hit, follow these helpful tips for an even better dish.
- Use high-quality chicken – For the best flavor, opt for rotisserie chicken or tender cooked chicken breast.
- Don’t skimp on seasoning – Adjust spices like cumin and chili powder to suit your taste; they are essential for depth of flavor.
- Warm tortillas before filling – This makes them more pliable and easier to roll without tearing.
- Layer cheese generously – Adding extra cheese both inside and on top creates a deliciously gooey texture.
- Bake until bubbly – Ensure you cook until the cheese is melted and slightly golden for optimal taste.
- Let them rest before serving – Allowing the enchiladas to sit briefly helps them hold their shape when serving.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas can elevate your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options:
- Mexican Rice – Flavored with spices and served fluffy, it’s a perfect complement.
- Refried Beans – Rich in protein, these are creamy and satisfying alongside enchiladas.
- Corn Salad – A bright mix of sweet corn, peppers, and lime juice adds freshness.
- Guacamole Salad – Cool avocado salad brings a refreshing bite that offsets richness.
- Grilled Vegetables – Smoky veggies add color and healthiness to your plate.
- Black Bean Soup – A hearty soup that pairs well with enchiladas’ flavors, providing additional depth.
- Chips with Salsa Verde – Crunchy chips served with zesty salsa make for great starters before the main dish.
- Cilantro Lime Quinoa – A light side that offers a nutty flavor complemented by zesty lime.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making creamy white chicken enchiladas can be easy, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your filling properly can lead to bland enchiladas. Always taste your filling and adjust the spices as needed.
- Overfilling tortillas: Adding too much filling makes rolling difficult and can cause tears. Aim for just the right amount to ensure a snug roll.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold chicken or sour cream can affect the texture of your sauce and filling. Let them come to room temperature before using.
- Not covering while baking: Failing to cover your dish can dry out the enchiladas. Cover with foil until the last few minutes of baking for a moist result.
- Ignoring resting time: Cutting into enchiladas immediately after baking can cause them to fall apart. Let them rest for a few minutes for better slicing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.
- These enchiladas can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed, until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about creamy white chicken enchiladas that you might find helpful.
What are Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas?
Creamy white chicken enchiladas are tortillas filled with shredded chicken in a creamy sauce, often topped with cheese and baked until bubbly.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to mix cheeses like Pepper Jack or Gouda for extra flavor. Just ensure they’re good melting cheeses.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tortillas and replace all-purpose flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend in the sauce.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble them ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and bake when ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
Creamy white chicken enchiladas are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with different fillings or toppings based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings!
Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas are the ultimate comfort food that combines tender shredded chicken, creamy sauce, and a blend of rich cheeses all wrapped in soft tortillas. This dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, bringing everyone to the table with its irresistible flavors. Easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite toppings, these enchiladas are sure to impress. In just 45 minutes, you can enjoy a hearty meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 12 small flour tortillas
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- Diced green chilies
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté diced onions until translucent. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in shredded chicken and spices until well combined, then remove from heat.
- In the same skillet, make the sauce by whisking flour into melted butter before gradually adding chicken broth until thickened. Stir in sour cream and green chilies.
- Spread half the sauce in a baking dish, fill tortillas with the chicken mixture, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in the dish. Pour remaining sauce over the top and sprinkle with cheese.
- Bake for 25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 enchilada (150g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
