There’s something magical about the aroma of chicken enchiladas with white sauce wafting through your home. Imagine tender chicken enveloped in warm tortillas, bathed in a creamy, dreamy white sauce that dances on your taste buds. The moment you take a bite, you’re greeted with a symphony of flavors that can only be described as a culinary hug.
I remember the first time I made these enchiladas for my family. They walked into the kitchen, drawn by the irresistible scent, and their eyes lit up like kids in a candy store. It was one of those rare occasions where everyone devoured every last bite, begging for seconds—definitely not something that happens every day in our household!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These chicken enchiladas with white sauce are effortless to prepare and burst with flavor
- Their creamy texture makes them visually appealing and satisfying
- You can easily customize the filling or toppings based on your preferences
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings
I still chuckle when I think about my cousin’s reaction after her first taste; she declared it was “life-changing.”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
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Tortillas: Flour tortillas work best for wrapping up all that deliciousness without tearing apart
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Shredded Cheese: A blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar provides the perfect melty goodness
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Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor
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Sour Cream: This adds creaminess to the sauce and balances out the flavors
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Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while enriching the sauce
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Green Chiles: Canned or fresh, they give a delightful kick without overwhelming heat
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Onion: Diced onion enhances sweetness once sautéed to perfection
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Olive Oil: For sautéing; choose an extra virgin variety for added flavor
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Cilantro (optional): Fresh cilantro adds freshness and brightness to finish your dish
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Chicken: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté chopped onions until they turn translucent and fragrant.
Add Some Flavor: Toss in minced garlic and cook until it releases its aromatic magic—about 1 minute will do. Stir in diced chicken breasts, seasoning them with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
Mix Up That Sauce: In a bowl, combine sour cream, chicken broth, and green chiles. Pour half of this luscious mixture over your cooked chicken to keep it juicy while mixing everything together.
Fill Those Tortillas!: Take each tortilla and spoon some of that heavenly chicken mixture inside. Roll them tightly and place them seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
Top It Off!: Pour the remaining sauce over your rolled tortillas generously. Then sprinkle shredded cheese atop everything like you’re decorating a cheesy masterpiece.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Slide your baking dish into the oven for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. The smell will have everyone clamoring around like bees to honey!
Enjoy these delightful chicken enchiladas with white sauce any night of the week! Serve with rice or beans for a complete meal that will make even picky eaters cheer!
You Must Know
- Chicken enchiladas with white sauce are a comforting dish that blends rich flavors and creamy textures
- Perfect for family dinners, these enchiladas are quick to prepare and can be customized based on personal preferences
- The combination of spices and cheese makes every bite irresistible
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the chicken thoroughly before shredding it. While the chicken cooks, prepare the white sauce to ensure everything is ready simultaneously.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for beef or add vegetables like bell peppers for extra flavor and texture. Experimenting with spices can elevate your dish even more.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Make sure to shred the chicken while it’s still warm for easier handling
- Don’t rush the sauce-making process; let it thicken for a silky texture
- Always taste before serving; adjusting seasoning can make a huge difference in flavor
When I first made chicken enchiladas with white sauce, my friends devoured them so quickly that I barely had a chance to take a picture! Their enthusiasm reminded me why I love cooking.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor to your enchiladas.
What type of cheese works best?
Monterey Jack cheese is ideal due to its creamy melt and mild flavor, but feel free to mix it up!
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling or white sauce for a spicy kick that elevates your dish!
Creamy Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the comforting delight of creamy chicken enchiladas with white sauce. This quick and easy dish features tender chicken wrapped in soft tortillas, smothered in a rich, flavorful white sauce, and topped with melted cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, these enchiladas are sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters!
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked, shredded boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese blend
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 tsp olive oil
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté diced onion until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Stir in shredded chicken and season with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, mix sour cream, chicken broth, and green chiles. Pour half over the chicken mixture and stir well.
- Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 enchilada (187g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
