As the sun sets after a long day, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked creamy white chicken enchiladas wafting through the kitchen. Picture this: tender tortillas generously wrapped around succulent, juicy chicken, all drizzled in a rich, velvety white sauce that elevates this dish to new heights of indulgence. I discovered this gem while searching for an easy weeknight dinner that didn’t skimp on flavor, and let me tell you, it quickly became a family favorite.
Not only does this recipe deliver on ease and taste, but it’s also customizable to suit every palate. Want to spice things up? Toss in some jalapeños. Looking for added heartiness? Black beans can easily make their way into the mix. Whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or an impressive dish for your next gathering, you’ll find that these creamy white chicken enchiladas are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, and a delightful escape from the monotony of fast food. Ready to bring a little taste of comfort into your home? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why are Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas a must-try?
Indulgent flavors await you in this recipe, featuring a mouthwatering combination of creamy sauce and tender chicken. Easy to prepare, even novice cooks can impress their families with this dish. Customizable to your taste, feel free to add your favorite ingredients like black beans or jalapeños for an exciting twist. Perfect for busy nights, these enchiladas can be prepped ahead and baked fresh for a stress-free dinner. Crowd-pleasing and satisfying, they’re sure to leave everyone asking for seconds! Don’t forget to check out my tips for make-ahead options that make weeknight meals a breeze!
Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas Ingredients
• Discover the perfect blend of flavors!
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For the Enchiladas
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Flour Tortillas – Medium-sized tortillas work best for easy rolling and complement the creamy sauce.
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Cooked Shredded Chicken – Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver in this creamy white chicken enchiladas recipe.
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Monterey Jack Cheese – Provides creaminess and flavor; can substitute with pepper jack for added heat.
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Cheddar Cheese – Adds sharpness and color; use more Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.
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Diced Green Chiles – Fresh chiles add a mild kick; feel free to use fresh if preferred.
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Chopped Fresh Cilantro – Offers freshness and herbaceous notes; substitute with parsley if desired.
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Diced Onion – Adds sweetness and texture; shallots can also work for a subtler flavor.
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For the White Sauce
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Butter – The base for the white sauce; using olive oil creates a lighter version.
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All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the sauce; gluten-free flour is perfect for a gluten-free option.
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Chicken Broth – Provides depth to the sauce; vegetable broth can substitute for a vegetarian twist.
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Sour Cream – Adds creaminess and tang; try cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative.
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Cumin – Enhances the flavor with warmth; adjust to your taste.
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Salt and Pepper – Essential basic seasonings to taste.
With this ingredient list, you’re well on your way to creating mouthwatering creamy white chicken enchiladas that will whisk you away to comfort food bliss!
How to Make Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
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Prepare White Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour for 1 minute until smooth, then gradually add chicken broth, stirring frequently until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Stir in sour cream, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined.
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Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, diced onion, green chiles, cilantro, and 1 cup of cheese. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
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Assemble Enchiladas: Spread a thin layer of white sauce in a greased baking dish. Take a tortilla, fill it with a generous portion of the chicken mixture, roll it tightly, and place it seam-side down in the dish. Repeat until all tortillas are filled.
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Top and Bake: Pour the remaining white sauce over the rolled enchiladas, then sprinkle with any leftover cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
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Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the enchiladas rest for 5 minutes to help with slicing. Serve warm, perhaps with a sprinkle of additional cilantro on top for a fresh touch.
Optional: Serve with a side of avocado salad for a refreshing contrast.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas Variations
Customize your meal with these delightful twists that add flavor and texture to your creamy white chicken enchiladas.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños to the chicken filling for a zesty heat that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Heartiness Boost: Include black beans in your filling for a protein-packed vegetarian option that enhances the dish’s richness.
- Sweet Addition: Substitute corn for some of the chicken to introduce a sweet burst of flavor and a lovely texture to each bite.
- Layered Casserole: Skip the rolling; mix all ingredients and layer them in a baking dish for a fun, deconstructed version that’s just as delicious.
- Herbaceous Notes: Swap out cilantro for fresh parsley or even basil for a unique twist that fits different flavor preferences.
- Cheesy Indulgence: Mix in cream cheese with the shredded chicken to create an extra creamy filling that takes indulgence to the next level.
- Zesty Sauce: Mix in a teaspoon of lime juice into your white sauce for a refreshing brightness that elevates the enchiladas’ flavors beautifully.
- Veggie Lovers: Incorporate sautéed bell peppers or zucchini into the filling for an added crunch and a burst of color on your plate.
Let your creativity run wild, and make these enchiladas your own!
Expert Tips for Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
- Right Sauce Consistency: Ensure the white sauce coats the back of a spoon; if too thick, gradually whisk in more broth for perfect creamy texture.
- Resting Time Matters: Allow the enchiladas to rest for 5 minutes before slicing; this enhances presentation and prevents messy servings.
- Try New Ingredients: Don’t hesitate to customize your filling with optional ingredients like jalapeños or black beans for varied flavors in your creamy white chicken enchiladas.
- Avoid Overfilling: Be cautious not to overfill the tortillas; this makes rolling difficult and can lead to messy enchiladas.
- Pre-Assembly Convenience: For busy nights, assemble your enchiladas ahead of time and refrigerate, then simply bake when ready to enjoy a warm family meal.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
Fridge: Store any leftover creamy white chicken enchiladas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick reheat!
Freezer: You can freeze the assembled enchiladas (before baking) for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F for about 45-50 minutes, or until heated through. If previously refrigerated, simply bake for 20-25 minutes.
Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble them a day in advance and refrigerate, so they’re ready to pop in the oven whenever you’re craving a comforting meal!
What to Serve with Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas?
Pair these indulgent enchiladas with complementary sides for a delightful family feast that will leave everyone satisfied.
- Spanish Rice: The fluffy texture and subtle spices create a wonderful backdrop to the creamy richness of the enchiladas.
- Refried Beans: Creamy, savory beans add a lovely depth of flavor and extra protein, completing a hearty meal.
- Guacamole: This zesty avocado dip brings a fresh contrast and creamy texture that perfectly balances the rich enchiladas.
- Fresh Avocado Salad: Tossed with lime and cilantro, this salad offers a refreshing crunch that lightens up the dish.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky corn adds a delightful sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of the meal while bringing a summery vibe.
- Margaritas: A tangy cocktail pairs beautifully, cutting through the creaminess with a refreshing burst of citrus.
- Churros: For dessert, consider indulgent churros dusted with sugar and cinnamon, serving as the perfect sweet ending to this comforting meal.
No matter what you choose, these pairings will elevate your creamy white chicken enchiladas into a memorable dining experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the enchiladas and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking, which not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. To maintain quality, cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap to prevent drying out. Additionally, if you prefer, you can prepare the filling (chicken mixture and white sauce) up to 3 days in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply fill the tortillas and pour the sauce over them, then pop them into a preheated oven at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until bubbly. This way, your busy weeknights become a breeze!
Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe FAQs
What type of tortillas work best for creamy white chicken enchiladas?
Medium-sized flour tortillas are ideal for easy rolling and complement the creamy sauce perfectly. They provide a soft texture that adds to the overall indulgence of the dish.
How should I store leftover creamy white chicken enchiladas?
Store any leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and makes for a quick reheating option when you’re ready to enjoy them again!
Can I freeze creamy white chicken enchiladas?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled enchiladas (before baking) for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F for about 45-50 minutes or until heated through.
What are some common troubleshooting tips for making creamy white chicken enchiladas?
If you find your sauce too thick, simply whisk in a bit more chicken broth until you reach a creamy consistency that coats the back of a spoon. For rolling, be careful not to overfill your tortillas; this can make them difficult to roll and lead to a messy assembly.
Can I modify the ingredients for dietary restrictions?
Definitely! You can substitute gluten-free flour for the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version. For a dairy-free option, use cashew cream in place of sour cream. Additionally, using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth makes this recipe vegetarian-friendly.
How can I customize the filling for creamy white chicken enchiladas?
Feel free to add jalapeños for an extra kick, black beans for heartiness, or corn for a touch of sweetness. These additions enhance the flavors and textures of the enchiladas, making each bite a delightful experience.
Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas That Whisk You Away Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
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Prepare White Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour for 1 minute until smooth, then gradually add chicken broth, stirring frequently until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Stir in sour cream, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined.
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Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, diced onion, green chiles, cilantro, and 1 cup of cheese. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
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Assemble Enchiladas: Spread a thin layer of white sauce in a greased baking dish. Take a tortilla, fill it with a generous portion of the chicken mixture, roll it tightly, and place it seam-side down in the dish. Repeat until all tortillas are filled.
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Top and Bake: Pour the remaining white sauce over the rolled enchiladas, then sprinkle with any leftover cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
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Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the enchiladas rest for 5 minutes to help with slicing. Serve warm, perhaps with a sprinkle of additional cilantro on top for a fresh touch.