When the week drags on and fast food starts to sound all too tempting, I find solace in whipping up a warm, comforting dish that feels like a hug on a plate. Enter my Easy White Chicken Enchiladas with Creamy White Sauce—a recipe that transforms even the dullest weeknight into a flavorful adventure. Vibrant tortillas filled to the brim with succulent chicken, all draped in a velvety white sauce, strike the perfect balance between indulgence and simplicity.
What’s more, this dish is versatile enough for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The best part? You can prepare everything in advance, making it a stress-free option that everyone will rave about. So, let’s dive into this culinary delight that will bring joy to your kitchen and a smile to your loved ones’ faces!
Why love Easy White Chicken Enchiladas?
Comforting, these enchiladas offer a warm, home-cooked hug that everyone craves after a long day.
Flexibility shines through with ingredient options, allowing you to customize the dish to your taste or pantry.
Effortless preparation makes this a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
Crowd-pleasing flavor combines creamy sauce and savory chicken that leaves plates clean and smiles wide.
Meal prep-friendly, you can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time for a quick bake later—nothing beats a delightful homemade dinner without the rush!
Easy White Chicken Enchiladas Ingredients
• Dive into this crowd-pleaser with all the essentials you need!
For the Enchiladas
- Flour Tortillas – The perfect base for Easy White Chicken Enchiladas; use medium-sized for ideal filling.
- Cooked Shredded Chicken – A protein-packed filling; rotisserie chicken simplifies your prep time!
- Monterey Jack Cheese – Melts beautifully for a creamy texture; switch to pepper jack for a spicy twist.
- Cheddar Cheese – Adds an extra layer of flavor and color to your enchiladas.
- Diced Green Chiles – Introduces a mild heat; both fresh or canned varieties work wonderfully.
- Chopped Cilantro – Freshens up the dish; feel free to omit if you’re not a fan.
- Diced Onion – Provides rich depth in the filling for added flavor.
For the Creamy White Sauce
- Butter – The foundation for the sauce that ensures richness.
- All-Purpose Flour – Helps thicken the sauce to perfection.
- Chicken Broth – A flavorful liquid base that enhances the creamy consistency.
- Sour Cream – Contributes tang and creaminess to the sauce; replace with cashew cream for a dairy-free option.
- Ground Cumin – Offers a warm spice note that elevates the flavor.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for balancing all the delicious flavors; adjust to your liking.
Embrace the cozy vibes these Easy White Chicken Enchiladas bring to your dinner table and enjoy the smiles they elicit!
How to Make Easy White Chicken Enchiladas
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Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter until bubbly. This will form the base of your creamy white sauce.
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Whisk in Flour: Once the butter is melted, whisk in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color. This creates your roux.
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Add Chicken Broth: Gradually whisk in 2 cups of chicken broth until the mixture is smooth, continuing to stir for about 3-5 minutes. The sauce should thicken nicely within this time.
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Stir in Sour Cream: Remove the saucepan from heat, and gently fold in 1 cup of sour cream, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until fully combined and creamy.
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Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken, 1 diced onion, 1 can of diced green chiles, ½ cup of chopped cilantro, and 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until well mixed.
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Assemble the Enchiladas: Spread a thin layer of the white sauce in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Take a flour tortilla, fill it with the chicken mixture, roll it tightly, and place seam-side down in the dish.
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Top and Bake: Pour the remaining white sauce over the assembled enchiladas, sprinkle with 1 cup of cheddar cheese, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden. Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Optional: Garnish with additional chopped cilantro for extra freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for Easy White Chicken Enchiladas
Feel free to jazz up your Easy White Chicken Enchiladas with these delightful twists that cater to your taste!
- Dairy-Free: Swap sour cream for cashew cream and use dairy-free cheese to keep it creamy without the dairy.
- Veggie Loaded: Add chopped spinach or sautéed bell peppers to the chicken filling for a nutritious and colorful boost.
- Spicy Kick: Use pepper jack cheese instead of Monterey Jack for a zesty punch that ignites your taste buds.
- Casserole Style: Layer tortillas, filling, and sauce like a casserole for a unique take that’s easy to serve and share.
- Corn Tortillas: Switch it up by using corn tortillas for a gluten-free option; just warm them slightly to prevent cracking.
- Add Beans: Mix in black beans or pinto beans with the chicken for added protein and fiber, making the dish even heartier.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle peppers for a deep, smoky flavor that elevates the enchiladas’ profile.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like oregano or thyme in the sauce for an aromatic twist that brightens each bite.
Embrace these variations to make this dish truly your own, and watch as it transforms into family favorites time and time again!
What to Serve with Easy White Chicken Enchiladas?
Transform your dinner table into a fiesta feast with the perfect accompaniments to your creamy, comforting enchiladas!
- Spanish Rice: This flavorful side adds a hearty touch, soaking up the creamy white sauce beautifully. It’s a classic pairing that never disappoints.
- Refried Beans: Rich and creamy, refried beans enhance the dish’s Tex-Mex vibe, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. They’re a must for any Mexican spread!
- Fresh Guacamole: Creamy and vibrant, guacamole brings a refreshing, cool contrast to the warm enchiladas that will leave everyone wanting more.
- Avocado Salad: A zesty salad with sliced avocados, tomatoes, and lime dressing brightens the plate while adding fresh textures to complement the dish.
- Crispy Tortilla Chips: Serve with a side of salsa or queso for a crunchy contrast! The chips add a fun, snackable element that makes for a delightful start.
- Margaritas: These tangy and refreshing drinks pair perfectly, enhancing your meal with a fiesta spirit and balancing the richness of the enchiladas.
- Tres Leches Cake: For dessert, this ultra-moist cake is the sweetest ending to a fabulous meal, offering a delightful contrast to savory flavors.
- Fried Plantains: Sweet and crispy, fried plantains create a unique flavor pairing that adds a hint of sweetness to your dinner spread.
Let these delicious sides elevate your Easy White Chicken Enchiladas into an unforgettable feast!
Expert Tips for Easy White Chicken Enchiladas
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Consistency Matters: Ensure the white sauce coats the back of a spoon. If it’s too thick, whisk in a little reserved chicken broth for a smoother texture.
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Warm the Tortillas: Warming the flour tortillas for a few seconds makes them more pliable, preventing cracks when you roll your enchiladas.
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Avoid Soggy Enchiladas: Spread a thin layer of white sauce at the bottom of the baking dish to create a barrier and keep the enchiladas crisp.
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Resting is Key: Allow the baked enchiladas to rest for at least 5 minutes. This helps them set, making slicing easier and retaining the filling better.
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Make-ahead Option: Prepare your Easy White Chicken Enchiladas up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate before baking for a quick meal solution!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy White Chicken Enchiladas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance by preparing the filling and arranging the enchiladas in the baking dish. Simply cover the assembled enchiladas tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate them to keep everything fresh and delicious. When you’re ready to serve, just preheat your oven to 350°F, remove the wrap, and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden, ensuring you have a comforting meal at your fingertips without the last-minute rush. This approach not only saves you time during busy weeknights but also guarantees that your enchiladas remain just as delightful as ever!
Storage Tips for Easy White Chicken Enchiladas
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for the best texture.
Freezer: Freeze assembled enchiladas (without baking) for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag.
Thawing: To bake from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the enchiladas up to 24 hours in advance, store covered in the refrigerator, and simply bake when ready to serve.
Easy White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for my enchiladas?
Absolutely! For the most flavorful and tender filling, I recommend using cooked shredded chicken, and a rotisserie chicken works beautifully! Look for chicken that’s juicy and well-seasoned to enhance the overall taste of your dish.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftover Easy White Chicken Enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place them in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through for the best texture.
Can I freeze my enchiladas?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze enchiladas! To freeze, assemble them without baking and wrap them tightly in aluminum foil. Then, place the wrapped enchiladas in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
No worries! If your creamy white sauce thickens too much, simply whisk in a little reserved chicken broth, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. Aim for a smooth texture that can coat the back of a spoon.
Are these enchiladas safe for my pets?
Good question! While the ingredients in Easy White Chicken Enchiladas are generally safe for humans, avoid feeding them to pets. Ingredients like onion and garlic can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always consult with your veterinarian regarding your pet’s diet.
Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare your Easy White Chicken Enchiladas up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble the enchiladas in a greased baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and store in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as instructed!
Easy White Chicken Enchiladas with Creamy White Sauce Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter until bubbly.
- Whisk in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color.
- Gradually whisk in 2 cups of chicken broth until the mixture is smooth, stirring for about 3-5 minutes.
- Remove from heat, and gently fold in 1 cup of sour cream, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken, 1 diced onion, 1 can of diced green chiles, ½ cup of chopped cilantro, and 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese.
- Spread a thin layer of the white sauce in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture, roll tightly, and place seam-side down.
- Pour the remaining white sauce over the enchiladas, sprinkle with 1 cup of cheddar cheese, and bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes.
- Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.