White Chicken Enchiladas are a delightful dish that effortlessly combines creamy textures and rich flavors. Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress both friends and family. The unique blend of shredded chicken and cheese wrapped in soft tortillas creates a satisfying meal that is both comforting and easy to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: White Chicken Enchiladas come together in no time, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of shredded chicken, creamy sauce, and melted cheese delivers a delicious flavor that everyone will enjoy.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it with your favorite toppings such as salsa or cilantro for added customization.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and freeze leftovers for future meals without sacrificing taste.
- Family-Friendly: With its mild flavors, this dish is suitable for both kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into cooking, gather your essential tools to make the process smooth and easy.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 baking dish
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Cooking spoon
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13 baking dish: Perfect size for holding all the enchiladas while ensuring even cooking.
- Saucepan: Essential for creating the creamy sauce that brings this dish together.
- Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth consistency for the sauce by incorporating ingredients effectively.
Ingredients
For the Enchiladas:
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheddar cheese
- 8 flour tortillas (soft shell)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 4 oz can of diced green chiles
- 2 cups shredded chicken (about 1 big chicken breast)
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- Salt and pepper
How to Make White Chicken Enchiladas
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
- Cook or shred your chicken breast until it’s fully cooked.
- In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with 1 cup of shredded cheese until combined.
Step 3: Fill the Tortillas
- Lay out 8 flour tortillas on a flat surface.
- Evenly distribute the chicken mixture among each tortilla, ensuring they are filled uniformly.
- Roll each tortilla tightly and place them seam-side down in a greased 9×13 baking dish.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add in 3 tablespoons of flour, stirring constantly for about one minute until combined.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
- Gradually pour in 2 cups of chicken broth while whisking continuously until smooth.
- Continue whisking over medium heat until thickened and creamy (about 5-8 minutes).
Step 6: Combine Sauce with Remaining Ingredients
- Stir in the sour cream, salt, pepper, and can of diced green chiles into the saucepan until well mixed.
Step 7: Assemble Enchiladas
- Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the rolled-up tortillas in the baking dish.
Step 8: Add Cheese Topping
- Sprinkle an additional cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the sauced enchiladas.
Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown. Once done, add salsa or cilantro as desired before serving. Enjoy your delicious White Chicken Enchiladas!
How to Serve White Chicken Enchiladas
White chicken enchiladas are a delicious and versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Pairing them with the right sides and toppings can elevate your meal to new heights. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
Fresh Toppings
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the flavors.
- Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip complements the enchiladas beautifully.
- Salsa: A fresh salsa can add a zesty kick to your dish.
Accompaniments
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with herbs and spices makes a great side.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide protein and richness.
- Corn Salsa: A refreshing corn salsa brings sweetness and crunch.
Garnishes
- Chopped Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for an herby touch.
- Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges to brighten up the dish with acidity.
How to Perfect White Chicken Enchiladas
To ensure your white chicken enchiladas turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh chicken and produce for the best flavor.
- Don’t Overfill Tortillas: Avoid overstuffing to prevent tearing when rolling them.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the spice by adding jalapeños or using spicier green chiles.
- Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after baking helps the sauce set.
Best Side Dishes for White Chicken Enchiladas
White chicken enchiladas pair well with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here’s a list of some of the best options.
- Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn topped with cheese, lime, and chili powder for a tasty treat.
- Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, and avocado dressed in lime juice.
- Tortilla Chips with Salsa: Crunchy chips served with zesty salsa make for a perfect appetizer.
- Avocado Salad: A simple salad made with ripe avocados, tomatoes, and onions drizzled with olive oil.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice mixed with cilantro and lime juice enhances the meal’s freshness.
- Grilled Veggies: Seasonal vegetables grilled until tender add color and nutrition to your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making White Chicken Enchiladas can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls that you should avoid to ensure perfect results.
- Using cold tortillas – Cold tortillas can crack when rolling. Warm them slightly in the microwave or on a skillet for flexibility.
- Skipping the sauce – The creamy sauce is essential for flavor and moisture. Don’t skip it; it binds the dish together.
- Overfilling the tortillas – Filling them too much can make rolling difficult. Use just enough filling to roll them comfortably.
- Not seasoning properly – Salt and pepper are crucial for enhancing flavor. Taste the sauce and filling before baking, and adjust accordingly.
- Baking at the wrong temperature – Baking at too low a temperature may result in soggy enchiladas. Ensure your oven is preheated to 425 degrees Fahrenheit for that perfect golden finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing White Chicken Enchiladas
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating White Chicken Enchiladas
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave – Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
- Stovetop – Place in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water. Cover and heat until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making White Chicken Enchiladas, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries answered.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, feel free to use cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor profile!
Are White Chicken Enchiladas healthy?
They can be made healthier by using whole wheat tortillas and reducing cheese or sour cream.
Can I prepare White Chicken Enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble them a day in advance and bake just before serving.
What sides pair well with White Chicken Enchiladas?
Serve with Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
These White Chicken Enchiladas are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different proteins, veggies, or sauces based on your preferences. They make for a comforting meal that’s sure to impress family and friends. Give this recipe a try today!
White Chicken Enchiladas
Indulge in the creamy comfort of White Chicken Enchiladas, a delightful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. These enchiladas feature tender shredded chicken and cheese wrapped in soft flour tortillas, all smothered in a rich, homemade creamy sauce. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, they are sure to impress both kids and adults alike. Customize them with your favorite toppings like salsa or guacamole for an extra touch!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 8 flour tortillas
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- 2 cups shredded chicken
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Cook or shred chicken; mix with 1 cup cheese in a bowl.
- Fill each tortilla with chicken mixture, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat; stir in flour until combined.
- Gradually add chicken broth while whisking until smooth; cook until thickened (5-8 minutes).
- Stir in sour cream, green chiles, salt, and pepper.
- Pour sauce over tortillas and sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 enchilada (180g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
