White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

These creamy, cheesy White Chicken Enchiladas are a delicious twist on a classic Mexican dish. With tender shredded chicken, a luscious white sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this recipe delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, these enchiladas are sure to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • The white sauce is rich, creamy, and irresistibly flavorful.
  • It’s a crowd-pleaser, loved by both kids and adults alike.
  • Simple ingredients come together for a restaurant-quality dish.
  • Make-ahead and freezer-friendly for convenience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Cooked and shredded chicken
  • Flour tortillas
  • Butter
  • Flour
  • Chicken broth
  • Sour cream
  • Green chilies
  • Shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • Optional: Fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or jalapeños for garnish

Directions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Cook and shred your chicken if you haven’t already. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Assemble the enchiladas: Fill each tortilla with shredded chicken and a sprinkle of cheese. Roll them tightly and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
  3. Make the sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add chicken broth while whisking until smooth. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly.
  4. Add sour cream and green chilies: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in sour cream and green chilies. Mix until smooth.
  5. Pour and bake: Pour the sauce evenly over the enchiladas in the baking dish. Top with the remaining shredded cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  6. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, then garnish with your choice of cilantro, diced tomatoes, or jalapeños. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: This recipe serves 4-6 people, depending on portion size.
  • Prep time: 15 minutes
  • Cook time: 25 minutes
  • Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

  • Protein options: Substitute chicken with turkey, ground beef, or black beans for a vegetarian option.
  • Cheese alternatives: Use a combination of cheddar, pepper jack, or Colby cheese for a unique flavor.
  • Spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for extra heat.
  • Gluten-free: Use gluten-free tortillas and a gluten-free flour substitute for the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
  • Freezing: Assemble the enchiladas and freeze them before baking. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is an excellent time-saving option for this recipe.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the enchiladas and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. How do I prevent the tortillas from getting soggy?

Briefly warming the tortillas before assembling can help reduce sogginess.

4. What type of tortillas should I use?

Flour tortillas are traditionally used for this recipe, but corn tortillas can work if preferred.

5. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream in this recipe.

6. How do I make the sauce thinner?

If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to achieve your desired consistency.

7. Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach make excellent additions to the filling.

8. How do I make it spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a spicy green chili sauce to amp up the heat.

9. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cheese, butter, and sour cream alternatives to make this recipe dairy-free.

10. What sides pair well with white chicken enchiladas?

Serve with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

White Chicken Enchiladas are the perfect blend of creamy and cheesy, making them a standout dish for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is ideal for both beginner and experienced cooks. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting guests, this comforting dish will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy!

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White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

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  • Author: KimEasy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner, Main Course
  • Method: Mexican-American
  • Cuisine: Baking

Description

White Chicken Enchiladas are a delightful twist on traditional enchiladas, featuring tender chicken wrapped in soft tortillas and smothered in a creamy, cheesy white sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings.


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Enchiladas:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 810 small flour tortillas

For the White Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chilies
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Optional Garnishes:

  • Sliced green onions
  • Chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling:
    • In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken and 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
  2. Assemble the Enchiladas:
    • Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
    • Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
    • Place a portion of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla, roll them up, and place them seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
  3. Make the White Sauce:
    • In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
    • Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
    • Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
    • Remove from heat and stir in the sour cream and diced green chilies until well combined.
  4. Bake:
    • Pour the white sauce evenly over the assembled enchiladas.
    • Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
    • If desired, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes to achieve a golden-brown top.
  5. Serve:
    • Garnish with sliced green onions and chopped cilantro, if desired.
    • Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Chicken Options: Rotisserie chicken works well for this recipe, providing convenience and flavor.
  • Tortillas: Flour tortillas are recommended for their softness, but corn tortillas can be used if preferred.
  • Spice Level: For a spicier kick, consider using diced jalapeños or adding a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

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