why make this recipe

Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas are a delightful twist on traditional enchiladas. They offer a rich and smooth flavor that combines tender chicken, creamy sauces, and cheesy goodness. This dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a homemade meal that feels comforting and satisfying.

how to make Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas

Ingredients

• 8-10 flour tortillas (medium size)
• 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

Directions

1. Start by melting the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until it forms a smooth paste that’s just turning light golden. This is the delicious base for your velvety white sauce.
2. Gradually add the chicken broth to the roux, whisking continuously to prevent any lumps. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens and turns silky, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the sour cream, cumin, salt, and pepper until everything’s perfectly combined.
3. In a mixing bowl, toss together the shredded chicken, diced onion, green chiles, cilantro, and 1 cup of the cheese mixture. Mix it all up to create a well-distributed filling that promises flavor in every bite.
4. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread a thin layer of that creamy white sauce in the bottom of a greased 9×13 baking dish. Take about 1/3 cup of the chicken mixture, place it down the center of each tortilla, roll them up tightly, and arrange seam-side down in the prepared dish.
5. Pour the remaining white sauce evenly over the rolled enchiladas, covering them completely. Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese on top for that irresistible golden, bubbly finish.
6. Bake uncovered at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, until the sauce is bubbling around the edges and the cheese is melted and golden brown. Once out of the oven, let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set properly. Enjoy your creamy white chicken enchiladas, bursting with flavor and comfort!

how to serve Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas

Serve the enchiladas hot, straight from the oven. You can top them with extra cilantro, diced tomatoes, or a splash of lime juice for added freshness. They pair well with a side salad or some rice for a complete meal.

how to store Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas

If you have leftovers, let them cool completely. Then, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the baked enchiladas for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

tips to make Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas

• For added flavor, you can sauté the onions before mixing them into the chicken filling.
• Feel free to add more vegetables, like bell peppers or corn, to the chicken mixture.
• If you prefer a little heat, add some diced jalapeños to the filling or sprinkle some hot sauce on top.

variation

You can easily customize this recipe by using different types of protein, like shredded beef or pork. You can also replace the cheese with a dairy-free alternative if needed.

FAQs

Q: Can I prepare these enchiladas ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just bake them before serving.

Q: What type of chicken works best for this recipe?
A: Rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe as it’s already cooked and easy to shred. You can also use leftover cooked chicken.

Q: Can I make a gluten-free version of these enchiladas?
A: Absolutely! Use gluten-free tortillas and check that your flour and sauce ingredients are gluten-free.