White Chicken Enchiladas

This recipe for creamy White Chicken Enchiladasis a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a cozy night in, these enchiladas feature tender chicken enveloped in flour tortillas, smothered in a rich creamy sauce. With their cheesy goodness and a hint of spice from green chiles, they are sure to become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of sour cream and cheese creates a rich sauce that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Dish: Customize with your favorite toppings such as avocado, cilantro, or extra cheese.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these cheesy enchiladas, making them great for any occasion.
• Great for Meal Prep: These enchiladas can be made ahead of time and stored for later, perfect for busy schedules.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Below are some essential tools you’ll need to prepare these White Chicken Enchiladas.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick baking dish (9×13-inch)
• Medium-sized mixing bowl
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick baking dish: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy after baking your enchiladas.
• Medium-sized mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients without spilling, ensuring your filling is well mixed.
• Medium saucepan: Perfect size for creating the creamy sauce without overcrowding.

Ingredients

This recipe for creamy White Chicken Enchiladas is made with flour tortillas, shredded chicken, cheese, green chiles and a delicious creamy white sauce!

For the Filling

• 2 cups shredded, cooked chicken (can use a store-bought rotisserie chicken)
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or mozzarella)
• Salt, pepper, Adobo seasoning, to taste
• 10 flour tortillas (taco size)

For the Sauce

• 3 Tablespoons butter
• 3 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 4 ounce can diced green chiles (do not drain)
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack Cheese

How to Make White Chicken Enchiladas

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350F degrees. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a medium-sized bowl:
1. Combine 2 cups of shredded chicken with 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
2. Season with salt, pepper, and Adobo seasoning according to your taste.

Step 3: Fill the Tortillas

Place the chicken mixture into each of the 10 flour tortillas:
1. Roll them up tightly.
2. Arrange them seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a medium saucepan:
1. Melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute until it thickens slightly without burning.
3. Gradually add in 2 cups of chicken broth while whisking until smooth.
4. Stir in 1 cup of sour cream along with the undrained can of diced green chiles. Avoid boiling the mixture.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the sauce over the enchiladas evenly.
2. Top with an additional cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until heated through and bubbly. Optionally, broil on high for an additional minute or two until golden brown.

Now you have delicious White Chicken Enchiladas ready to serve! Enjoy this comforting meal with friends and family!

How to Serve White Chicken Enchiladas

Serving White Chicken Enchiladas is a delight for any gathering or family dinner. These creamy and cheesy enchiladas can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation.

Garnish Ideas

• Chopped Cilantro – Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and a pop of color.
• Sour Cream Drizzle – A drizzle of sour cream on top makes for a creamy contrast.
• Sliced Jalapeños – For those who like a kick, fresh jalapeños provide heat and crunch.

Accompaniments

• Guacamole – Creamy guacamole pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the enchiladas.
• Pico de Gallo – Fresh pico de gallo adds brightness and freshness to each bite.
• Lime Wedges – A squeeze of lime juice enhances the overall taste and freshness.

How to Perfect White Chicken Enchiladas

Perfecting your White Chicken Enchiladas ensures that every bite is delicious. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Rotisserie Chicken – Saves time and adds great flavor to your enchiladas.
• Don’t Overfill Tortillas – Fill tortillas just enough to roll them without breaking; this keeps them intact during baking.
• Control Sauce Thickness – Adjust the chicken broth for your desired sauce thickness; a thicker sauce helps the enchiladas hold together better.
• Broil for Extra Crispiness – Broiling at the end gives the cheese a delightful golden crust that elevates the dish.

Best Side Dishes for White Chicken Enchiladas

Pairing side dishes with White Chicken Enchiladas can enhance your meal experience. Here are some tasty options that complement the flavors of this dish beautifully.

1. Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the creamy enchiladas well.
2. Refried Beans – Creamy refried beans add protein and texture, making for a hearty meal.
3. Corn Salad – A fresh corn salad brings sweetness and crunch, balancing out the richness of the enchiladas.
4. Grilled Vegetables – Lightly grilled seasonal vegetables offer a smoky flavor that pairs nicely with the dish.
5. Avocado Salad – A refreshing avocado salad provides healthy fats and bright flavors.
6. Chips and Salsa – Crunchy tortilla chips with salsa make for an enjoyable appetizer before diving into the main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making White Chicken Enchiladas, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping seasoning: Not adding enough salt or spices can lead to bland enchiladas. Always taste your filling and sauce before assembling.
• Overfilling tortillas: Filling the tortillas too much can cause them to tear. Aim for a moderate amount of filling for easy rolling.
• Not preparing the baking dish: Failing to spray the baking dish can result in sticking. Ensure you coat it well with nonstick spray for easy serving.
• Skipping the broiling step: Broiling adds a nice golden finish to the cheese. Don’t skip this step if you want bubbly, slightly browned tops.
• Boiling the sauce: Letting the sauce boil can cause it to separate. Remove it from heat just as it thickens for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing White Chicken Enchiladas

• Wrap individual servings tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped enchiladas in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating White Chicken Enchiladas

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place enchiladas in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a single serving on a microwave-safe plate. Cover loosely and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet, add a splash of broth and heat over medium heat. Add enchiladas, cover, and heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of chicken for White Chicken Enchiladas ?

Shredded rotisserie chicken works great for flavor and convenience. You can also use cooked chicken breast or thighs; just ensure it’s shredded finely.

Can I make White Chicken Enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the enchiladas and store them in the fridge or freezer before baking. Just add extra baking time if cooking from frozen.

How do I make these enchiladas spicier?

To add heat, incorporate diced jalapeños into the chicken filling or use spicy green chiles in the sauce.

Are there gluten-free options for White Chicken Enchiladas ?

Yes! Simply substitute traditional flour tortillas with gluten-free tortillas available at most grocery stores.

What can I serve with White Chicken Enchiladas?

These enchiladas pair well with rice, beans, or a fresh salad on the side for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

White Chicken Enchiladas are not only creamy and delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize ingredients based on personal preferences, such as using different proteins or adding veggies. Give this recipe a try for an easy dinner option that everyone will love!