White Chicken Enchiladas

Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas are the perfect Mexican dinner for any occasion. These delectable enchiladas feature flour tortillas stuffed with cheesy chicken and smothered in a creamy white sauce. They are not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making them ideal for weeknight meals or special gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep, you can have a delicious dinner ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: The creamy texture and cheesy goodness appeal to both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for various occasions – serve at family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even potlucks.
• Flavorful Delight: The combination of spices and creamy sauce elevates this dish to a new level of taste.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the enchiladas in advance, refrigerate, and bake when you’re ready to eat.

Tools and Preparation

To make these White Chicken Enchiladas, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 baking dish: This size is perfect for holding all your enchiladas, ensuring even cooking.
• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl helps combine ingredients effortlessly without mess.
• Saucepan: Ideal for creating the rich, creamy sauce that makes these enchiladas stand out.
• Whisk: Ensures your sauce is smooth by thoroughly mixing ingredients without lumps.

Ingredients

For the Enchiladas

• 2 cups boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2.5 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (Or Pepper Jack cheese)
• 5 ounces cream cheese
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 4 ounces canned diced green chillies
• 10 soft flour tortillas

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make White Chicken Enchiladas

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Cook the chicken using your preferred method—boil, bake, or use a rotisserie chicken. Once cooked, shred it using a fork if necessary.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease your 9×13 baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with 3/4 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or Pepper Jack), garlic powder, and cream cheese. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in flour and taco seasoning; cook for 1 minute. Gradually add in chicken broth while whisking until smooth. Then add 1/2 cup of shredded cheese and heat until thick and bubbly.

Step 5: Combine Sauce Ingredients

Stir in sour cream and diced green chillies into the sauce mixture. Avoid boiling; remove from heat once combined.

Step 6: Assemble the Enchiladas

Take each tortilla shell and fill it with some of the chicken and cheese mixture. Roll up tightly and place them seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.

Step 7: Add Sauce & Cheese Topping

Pour the prepared sauce over the rolled enchiladas. Sprinkle any remaining shredded cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake in preheated oven for about 22 minutes. For a golden finish, switch to high broil for an additional 3 minutes to brown the cheese lightly.

Enjoy your delicious White Chicken Enchiladas that are sure to impress family and friends!

How to Serve White Chicken Enchiladas

Serving White Chicken Enchiladas is an enjoyable experience that can be tailored to your taste and occasion. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, these enchiladas can shine on any table. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

Pair with Salsa

• Fresh Tomato Salsa: A classic choice that adds a refreshing kick.
• Pineapple Salsa: Sweet and tangy, it complements the creamy enchiladas beautifully.

Add a Side Salad

• Garden Salad: Crisp greens with tomatoes and cucumbers for a light crunch.
• Mexican Street Corn Salad: A zesty corn salad with lime dressing enhances the meal’s flavor.

Serve with Rice

• Spanish Rice: Flavored rice cooked with tomatoes and spices adds substance to the dish.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: Fragrant rice brightened with cilantro and lime pairs perfectly with enchiladas.

Include Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the flavors.
• Avocado Slices: Fresh avocados provide a rich, buttery texture that enhances each bite.

How to Perfect White Chicken Enchiladas

Perfecting your White Chicken Enchiladas requires attention to detail. These tips will help you achieve restaurant-quality results at home.

• Bold Flavoring: Use generous amounts of garlic powder and taco seasoning to enhance the chicken filling.
• Creamy Sauce: Ensure your white sauce is thick but not boiling when adding sour cream; this keeps it creamy.
• Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheese blends for varied flavors; try mixing Monterey Jack with sharp cheddar.
• Tortilla Warmth: Warm tortillas before filling them to make them more pliable and easier to roll without tearing.
• Baking Time: Monitor baking closely; broiling at the end helps achieve a golden, bubbly cheese topping.
• Make Ahead: Prepare enchiladas ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake for easy meal prep.

Best Side Dishes for White Chicken Enchiladas

When planning your meal, consider delicious side dishes that complement your White Chicken Enchiladas. Here are some great options:

1. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that adds richness and flavor contrast.
2. Refried Beans: Smooth beans seasoned well for a hearty addition to the plate.
3. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips paired with salsa offer a perfect starter.
4. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, and bell peppers adds nutrition and taste.
5. Mexican Cornbread: Sweet cornbread enhances the meal’s flavor profile while providing a comforting side.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Smoky grilled veggies add color and health benefits alongside your enchiladas.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making White Chicken Enchiladas can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls that can affect your dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the chicken: Ensure the chicken is cooked just right. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, ideally 165°F.
• Skipping the sauce: The creamy white sauce is essential for flavor and moisture. Don’t skip this step; it helps bind all the ingredients together and enhances the overall taste.
• Using cold tortillas: Cold tortillas can crack when rolled. Always warm your tortillas in a pan or microwave before filling them, making them easier to work with.
• Not greasing the pan: A greased baking dish prevents sticking and makes serving easier. Be sure to use cooking spray or butter to coat your baking dish before placing the enchiladas inside.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season your ingredients properly may lead to bland enchiladas. Use taco seasoning and taste as you go to ensure balanced flavors throughout.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store White Chicken Enchiladas in an airtight container.
• They will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing them in containers.

Freezing White Chicken Enchiladas

• Wrap each enchilada tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating White Chicken Enchiladas

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat for about 2-3 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium-low heat, covered, for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make White Chicken Enchiladas spicy?

You can add jalapeños or use Pepper Jack cheese instead of Monterey Jack cheese. Adjust taco seasoning as needed for extra heat.

Can I use leftover chicken for White Chicken Enchiladas?

Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds flavor to your dish.

What can I substitute for sour cream in this recipe?

Greek yogurt is an excellent alternative that provides similar creaminess without sacrificing flavor.

How long do White Chicken Enchiladas take to prepare?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking time, making it perfect for a quick dinner option.

Can I customize the filling of my White Chicken Enchiladas?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers into your filling mix for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

White Chicken Enchiladas offer incredible flavor wrapped up in soft tortillas, making them a fantastic choice for family dinners or gatherings. Their creamy texture and cheesy goodness cater to various tastes, allowing you to customize fillings as desired. Give this easy recipe a try—you won’t regret it!

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White Chicken Enchiladas

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas are a delightful Mexican dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. These enchiladas feature tender flour tortillas filled with savory shredded chicken and a rich, creamy white sauce that is a true crowd-pleaser. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this recipe is not only simple to prepare but also customizable to suit your family’s tastes. With just a handful of ingredients and quick assembly, you can enjoy an irresistible meal in no time. Serve them with salsa, a fresh salad, or your favorite toppings for a complete dining experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2.5 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or Pepper Jack cheese)
• 5 ounces cream cheese
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 10 soft flour tortillas

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Instructions

1. Cook the chicken by boiling or baking until fully cooked, then shred it.
2. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, 3/4 cup of cheese, garlic powder, and cream cheese.
4. Melt butter in a saucepan; stir in flour and taco seasoning, then add chicken broth while whisking until smooth.
5. Add sour cream and diced green chilies to the sauce; mix well without boiling.
6. Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
7. Pour the sauce over the enchiladas and sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
8. Bake for 22 minutes; broil for an additional 3 minutes for a golden finish.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 enchilada (150g)
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Use leftover rotisserie chicken for quicker prep. Experiment with different cheeses or add veggies for extra nutrition.