Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas are a delightful and comforting dish that fits perfectly for family dinners, gatherings, or a cozy night in. With their rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken filling, these enchiladas stand out from the crowd. They’re easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite toppings, making them a versatile option for any occasion.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Filling
- For the Sauce
- For Assembly
- Toppings
- How to Make Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
- Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Step 2: Make the Sauce
- Step 3: Assemble Enchiladas
- Step 4: Bake
- How to Serve Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
- Toppings
- Accompaniments
- How to Perfect Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
- Best Side Dishes for Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
- Reheating Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other types of cheese?
- How do I make these Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas spicier?
- Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
- What sides pair well with Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Prep Time: With just 20 minutes of preparation, you can have this delicious meal ready in no time.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and creamy ingredients results in an irresistible flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, these enchiladas are sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.
- Versatile Toppings: Customize your dish with fresh cilantro, jalapeños, or sour cream to make each serving unique.
- Leftover Friendly: Enjoy the goodness again the next day! These enchiladas taste even better as leftovers.
Tools and Preparation
Gathering the right tools is essential for making Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas. Having the proper equipment will streamline your cooking process and ensure consistent results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing onions and garlic, ensuring even cooking.
- Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining your chicken and cheese mixture effortlessly.
- Baking dish: Ensures that your enchiladas bake evenly and are easy to serve.
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
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Sauce
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
For Assembly
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 12 small flour tortillas (or corn tortillas, if preferred)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (for topping)
Toppings
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Sliced green onions
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced jalapeños
- Salsa, guacamole, or sour cream
How to Make Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken with 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese, diced onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Melt the unsalted butter.
2. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute until it forms a paste.
3. Gradually add in the chicken broth while whisking until smooth.
4. Stir in sour cream, diced green chilies, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until heated through.
Step 3: Assemble Enchiladas
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
1. Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface.
2. Spoon some of the filling mixture into the center of each tortilla.
3. Roll up tightly and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
4. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
Step 4: Bake
Pour the creamy sauce over the rolled enchiladas in the baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining Monterey Jack cheese on top.
1. Bake in preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
Now your Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas are ready to serve! Top with fresh cilantro, green onions, diced tomatoes, jalapeños or any other toppings you love. Enjoy!
How to Serve Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
Serving Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas is a delightful experience, as the flavors can be complemented with various toppings and sides. Here are some creative ways to serve these delicious enchiladas.
Toppings
- Chopped Fresh Cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness and color to your dish.
- Sliced Green Onions: Provides a mild onion flavor that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
- Diced Tomatoes: Adds a juicy texture and freshness, balancing the richness of the enchiladas.
- Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, jalapeños offer a spicy kick.
- Sour Cream: A classic addition that enhances creaminess and cools down any spice.
Accompaniments
- Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that complements the enchiladas beautifully.
- Salsa: A zesty sauce that adds flavor and freshness with every bite.
- Rice: A side of fluffy rice can soak up the creamy sauce, making for a fulfilling meal.
- Beans: Refried or black beans are excellent protein-packed options that pair well with enchiladas.
How to Perfect Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
To ensure your Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Quality Chicken: Start with tender, shredded chicken for the best texture. Rotisserie chicken works great!
- Don’t Overfill Tortillas: Avoid making them too heavy; this prevents tearing and makes rolling easier.
- Even Cheese Distribution: Sprinkle cheese evenly across enchiladas for consistent melting and flavor in every bite.
- Bake Until Golden: Ensure you bake until bubbly and slightly golden on top for an appetizing finish.
- Let Them Rest Before Serving: Allowing the enchiladas to set for a few minutes after baking 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. Here are some fantastic options to consider.
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with spices complements the enchiladas perfectly.
- Refried Beans: A creamy, protein-rich side that adds heartiness to your meal.
- Corn Salad: A sweet and crunchy salad made with fresh corn, tomatoes, and lime dressing enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like bell peppers and zucchini add color and nutrition to your plate.
- Cabbage Slaw: A crisp slaw brings crunch and contrasts nicely with the rich enchiladas.
- Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with salsa make for an enjoyable appetizer or side snack.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas can be straightforward, but there are a few common pitfalls to avoid for the best results.
- flavor mistakes: Not seasoning properly can lead to bland enchiladas. Make sure to taste your filling and adjust spices as needed.
- tortilla troubles: Using cold tortillas can make them break easily. Warm them before filling to maintain their integrity.
- baking blunders: Overbaking can dry out the enchiladas. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of cooking.
- layering lapses: Skipping layers of sauce between tortillas can lead to dry enchiladas. Ensure you layer sauce adequately for moisture.
- chicken choices: Using unseasoned or plain chicken can dull flavors. Opt for well-seasoned rotisserie chicken for added depth.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
- Wrap enchiladas tightly in foil or plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
- They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
- oven method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- microwave method: Place a single serving in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes or until hot.
- stovetop method: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed, until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! You can substitute Monterey Jack with pepper jack or even mozzarella based on your preference.
How do I make these Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas spicier?
Add more chili powder or diced jalapeños into the filling or top with spicy salsa for an extra kick.
Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble them and store them in the fridge overnight before baking when ready to serve.
What sides pair well with Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas?
Consider serving with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas offer a comforting and delicious option for dinner that your whole family will love. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste. Enjoy this versatile dish any night of the week!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. These enchiladas feature a sumptuous filling of tender shredded chicken and gooey cheese, all wrapped in soft tortillas and drizzled with a rich, creamy sauce. Ready in just under an hour, they can be customized with your favorite toppings to suit every palate. Whether served with a side of guacamole, salsa, or a fresh salad, these delightful enchiladas are sure to become a family favorite. Experience the joy of homemade Mexican cuisine with this easy-to-follow recipe that brings warmth and flavor to your table.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 12 small flour tortillas
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Monterey Jack cheese, diced onion, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- For the sauce, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Whisk in flour until golden; gradually add chicken broth. Mix in sour cream and green chilies until smooth.
- On each tortilla, place some filling and roll tightly. Arrange seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Pour sauce over the enchiladas and sprinkle with remaining cheese.
- Bake for about 25 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 enchilada (150g)
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
