White Chicken Enchiladas

Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas are a delightful twist on classic enchiladas, perfect for any occasion. These cheesy, flavorful rolls are filled with tender chicken and topped with a rich white sauce, making them an irresistible dinner option. Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual weeknight meal, these enchiladas are sure to impress with their creamy texture and savory taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal prep time and cooking skills.
• Rich in Flavor: With the combination of cheese, cream cheese, and spices, each bite is packed with deliciousness.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course for any meal or as leftovers for lunch the next day.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for gatherings; everyone will love this comforting Mexican dish.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like vegetables or different types of cheese.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (9×13 inches)
• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Fork (for shredding chicken)

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good-quality baking dish ensures even cooking and easy serving of your enchiladas.
• Saucepan: Essential for making the creamy sauce that will elevate your enchiladas to new heights.
• Whisk: Useful for mixing ingredients smoothly without lumps, especially when preparing sauces.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling

• 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

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
• 2 cups chicken broth

For Assembly

• 1 cup sour cream
• 4 ounces canned diced green chillies
• 10 soft flour tortillas

How to Make White Chicken Enchiladas

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. Cook the chicken by boiling, baking, or using rotisserie chicken until fully cooked.

Step 2: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

1. Once the chicken is cooked, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

1. Transfer the cooked chicken to a bowl and shred it using a fork if needed.
2. Add 3/4 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or Pepper Jack cheese), garlic powder, and cream cheese to the bowl.
3. Mix everything well until combined.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
2. Stir in flour and taco seasoning; cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Gradually add in 2 cups of chicken broth while whisking until smooth.
4. Add in 1/2 cup of shredded cheese; continue heating until thick and bubbly.

Step 5: Combine Sour Cream and Chilies

1. Stir in sour cream and diced green chillies into the sauce mixture.
2. Do not allow it to boil; remove from heat once combined.

Step 6: Assemble Enchiladas

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

Step 7: Top with Sauce and Cheese

1. Pour the prepared sauce over all enchiladas evenly.
2. Sprinkle remaining shredded cheese on top.

Step 8: Bake

1. Bake in preheated oven for about 22 minutes.
2. Broil on high for an additional 3 minutes until cheese is browned and bubbly.

Enjoy your deliciously creamy White Chicken Enchiladas, a true delight for any meal!

How to Serve White Chicken Enchiladas

White Chicken Enchiladas are a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or having a cozy family meal, these enchiladas can be paired with a variety of sides and garnishes to elevate your dining experience.

Fresh Toppings

• Chopped Cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness and color.
• Sliced Avocado: Creamy texture that complements the enchiladas beautifully.
• Diced Tomatoes: A juicy and refreshing addition for a pop of flavor.

Sides

• Mexican Rice: A fragrant rice dish that balances the creamy enchiladas.
• Refried Beans: Creamy beans add protein and richness to your meal.
• Guacamole: A classic avocado dip that pairs perfectly with enchiladas.

Sauces

• Salsa Verde: A tangy green sauce that adds zest and brightness.
• Chipotle Sauce: A smoky sauce for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

How to Perfect White Chicken Enchiladas

To achieve the best White Chicken Enchiladas, keep these tips in mind. They will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish, ensuring it turns out delicious every time.

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For convenience and added flavor, using rotisserie chicken can save time without sacrificing taste.
• Don’t Overfill Tortillas: Avoid overstuffing each tortilla to prevent them from tearing when rolling.
• Let the Sauce Cool Slightly: Allowing the sauce to cool a bit before pouring it over the enchiladas helps prevent sogginess.
• Experiment with Cheese Varieties: Mixing Monterey Jack with Pepper Jack gives an extra kick of flavor.
• Cover While Baking: Cover the baking dish with foil for the first part of baking to keep moisture in, then uncover for browning.

Best Side Dishes for White Chicken Enchiladas

Pairing side dishes with your White Chicken Enchiladas can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Mexican Rice: Flavorful rice cooked with spices and vegetables, perfect for soaking up sauces.
2. Refried Beans: Smooth and creamy beans seasoned with spices, great for adding depth to your plate.
3. Corn Salad: A refreshing mix of corn, bell peppers, and lime juice that adds crunch and sweetness.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and onions grilled until tender; they add a smoky flavor.
5. Fresh Salsa: Made from diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños for a zesty kick.
6. Crispy Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce or toppings you may have on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making White Chicken Enchiladas, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to ensure your enchiladas turn out perfectly.

• Overfilling the tortillas – Adding too much filling can cause the tortillas to tear. Aim for a modest amount of chicken and cheese mixture in each tortilla.
• Not properly greasing the baking dish – Skipping this step can lead to sticking and tearing when serving. Always grease your dish well before adding the enchiladas.
• Using cold ingredients – Cold cream cheese or chicken can result in uneven melting and texture. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before combining them.
• Boiling the sauce – Bringing the sauce to a boil can curdle the sour cream. Stir gently on low heat after adding sour cream and chilies to keep it smooth.
• Neglecting to cover while baking – Not covering the enchiladas can dry them out. Use aluminum foil during baking, removing it for the last few minutes to brown the cheese.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover White Chicken Enchiladas in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing White Chicken Enchiladas

• Wrap enchiladas tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating White Chicken Enchiladas

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to prevent drying out; cook until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making White Chicken Enchiladas.

How do I make White Chicken Enchiladas healthier?

You can make these enchiladas healthier by using whole wheat tortillas, reducing cheese, or adding more vegetables like bell peppers and onions into the filling.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar or Monterey Jack. Just remember that flavor may vary slightly.

Can I prepare White Chicken Enchiladas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble them in advance and refrigerate them before baking. Just add an extra few minutes of cooking time when you’re ready to bake.

What should I serve with White Chicken Enchiladas?

These enchiladas pair well with a side salad, rice, or beans. You can also serve them with salsa or guacamole for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

White Chicken Enchiladas are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a fantastic dinner option that can be customized based on your preferences. Whether you prefer spicier fillings or milder flavors, feel free to adapt this recipe. Try it out today, and enjoy a delightful meal!

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White Chicken Enchiladas

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas are a flavorful twist on the classic Mexican dish, perfect for any occasion. These cheesy enchiladas are filled with tender, shredded chicken and topped with a luscious white sauce, creating a mouthwatering meal that everyone will love. Easy to prepare and highly customizable, this dish is ideal for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. Enhance your culinary experience by adding your favorite vegetables or spices, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection. Serve with fresh toppings and sides for an unforgettable 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
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 4 ounces canned diced green chillies
• 10 soft flour tortillas

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Instructions

1. Cook the chicken by boiling, baking, or using rotisserie chicken until fully cooked.
2. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Shred the cooked chicken in a bowl and mix in 3/4 cup of shredded cheese, garlic powder, and cream cheese until well combined.
4. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter, stir in flour and taco seasoning for about a minute, then gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth.
5. Mix sour cream and diced green chilies into the sauce and remove from heat.
6. Fill each tortilla with some of the chicken mixture, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
7. Pour the sauce over enchiladas and sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
8. Bake for approximately 22 minutes; broil on high for an additional 3 minutes until cheese is browned.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 enchilada (150g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 65mg