Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

Looking for a comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite? Look no further than these Easy White Chicken Enchiladas! This recipe has been a staple in my household for years, and for good reason. The tender shredded chicken and gooey Monterey Jack cheese wrapped in soft flour tortillas, then smothered in a creamy, slightly tangy sauce, come together to create the ultimate comfort food.

When I first discovered these Easy White Chicken Enchiladas, I was tired of the traditional red sauce variety, and this dish quickly became a regular in our meal rotation. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or looking to impress guests, these enchiladas strike the perfect balance between being special and easy to make.

I always love sharing this recipe with friends and neighbors, especially new parents in need of a delicious and comforting meal. The fact that these enchiladas have been a hit with everyone I’ve served them to just proves how irresistible they are. So, roll up your sleeves, gather the ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a plateful of cheesy, creamy goodness with these Easy White Chicken Enchiladas!

Quick Benefits

• Creamy and comforting: The combination of tender chicken, melty cheese, and creamy sauce creates the ultimate comfort food that feels special enough for company but easy enough for a weeknight.
• Homemade sauce: Making the sauce from scratch with a simple roux ensures a rich and flavorful taste, avoiding the processed flavor of store-bought alternatives.
• Versatile and adaptable: You can customize the recipe by adding corn or black beans for extra texture and nutrition or adjusting the spiciness by adding jalapeños or using pepper jack cheese.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe Recipe

• Reasons to Love this Recipe:
• Creamy and Comforting: The combination of tender chicken, melty cheese, and creamy, slightly tangy sauce creates the ultimate comfort food that feels like a hug in every bite.
• Family Favorite: This recipe has been tried and tested by the blogger’s family for years, standing the test of time as a beloved meal option.
• Versatile and Adaptable: The recipe is versatile, allowing for personalization by adding ingredients like corn, black beans, or jalapeños to suit individual tastes.
• From Scratch Sauce: Making the sauce from scratch with a simple roux enhances the flavor, ensuring a homemade taste that beats processed alternatives.
• Perfect for Sharing: Whether for family dinners, potlucks, or meal trains for new parents, these enchiladas are a crowd-pleaser that will have people coming back for seconds.
• Easy to Prepare: Despite its gourmet appearance and rich flavor, this recipe is straightforward to make, making it suitable for both quick weeknight dinners and special occasions.
• Balanced Meal: Pair these enchiladas with a simple green salad, cilantro lime rice, and black beans for a complete, satisfying Mexican-inspired meal.
• Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the spiciness of the dish by adding jalapeños or opting for pepper jack cheese, catering to individual preferences for heat.

Ingredients for Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

Enchiladas

• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
• 8-10 flour tortillas
• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken

Creamy White Sauce

• 2 cups chicken broth
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup sour cream

Optional Garnishes

• Diced avocado
• Sliced green onions
• Extra sour cream
• Diced tomatoes
• Fresh cilantro, chopped

How to Make Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

Step 1: Prepare

Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.

Step 2: Make Filling

In a medium bowl, mix shredded chicken with 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble Enchiladas

Spoon ¼ cup of the chicken mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Roll tightly and arrange seam-side down in the baking dish. Pack all enchiladas snugly in the dish.

Step 4: Make White Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to make a roux. Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth.

Step 5: Thicken Sauce

Continue cooking the sauce while stirring constantly until it thickens, bubbles, and coats the back of a spoon, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 6: Add Creaminess

Take the saucepan off the heat. Mix in the sour cream and diced green chilies until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste, if preferred.

Step 7: Smother and Top

Evenly pour the creamy sauce over the enchiladas to fully cover them. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese on top.

Step 8: Bake

Place the enchiladas in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until hot throughout and cheese is melted and starting to brown.

Step 9: Serve

Allow the enchiladas to sit for 5 minutes before serving. Top with optional toppings such as fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or additional sour cream, if preferred.

Storage Tips

To store the finished dish of Easy White Chicken Enchiladas, ensure they have cooled to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Placing a sheet of parchment paper between layers can help prevent sticking and preserve the texture of the enchiladas. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, cover the container with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

For longer-term storage, you can freeze the white chicken enchiladas. Wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before following the reheating instructions mentioned above. Adding a fresh sprinkle of chopped cilantro and diced tomatoes after reheating can help refresh the flavors and presentation of the enchiladas. Enjoy the creamy and comforting flavors of this dish even on busy days by storing and reheating them properly.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegetarian version of these white chicken enchiladas, you can easily substitute the shredded chicken with cooked and seasoned black beans or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. This swap will provide a flavorful and satisfying alternative for those looking to skip the meat.

If you’re looking to make a lighter version of this recipe, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. The Greek yogurt will still provide that creamy texture and tangy flavor to the sauce but with a lower fat content. This substitution is a great way to reduce the overall calorie and fat content of the dish without compromising on taste.

To make these white chicken enchiladas gluten-free, you can use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas. Corn tortillas are a suitable alternative and will still result in delicious enchiladas. Additionally, you can replace the all-purpose flour in the sauce with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce without gluten. These simple swaps will allow those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy this tasty dish.

Serving Suggestions

To serve these delicious Easy White Chicken Enchiladas, consider topping them with a dollop of extra sour cream, diced avocado, and sliced green onions for added freshness and creaminess. The combination of flavors and textures will elevate the dish and provide a beautiful presentation on the plate. You can also sprinkle some fresh cilantro and diced tomatoes on top for a burst of color and flavor, creating a visually appealing dish that is sure to impress your guests.

For a complete Mexican-inspired meal, serve these creamy enchiladas with a side of cilantro lime rice and black beans. The zesty lime vinaigrette on a simple green salad would make a refreshing and light accompaniment to balance out the richness of the enchiladas. To customize the dish, consider adding corn or black beans to the chicken filling for extra texture and nutrition, or spice it up by incorporating a diced jalapeño into the sauce. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner, these white chicken enchiladas are a surefire crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

FAQs for Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble these white chicken enchiladas ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just cover the dish tightly with foil and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just remove the foil and follow the baking instructions in the recipe.

Can I freeze these white chicken enchiladas?

Yes, these enchiladas freeze well. After assembling the dish, cover it tightly with foil and freeze. When you’re ready to bake, let the enchiladas thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Then, remove the foil and bake according to the recipe instructions.

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

While the recipe calls for flour tortillas, you can definitely use corn tortillas if you prefer. Just keep in mind that corn tortillas have a different texture and flavor, so the final result may vary slightly from the original recipe.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream in this recipe. The flavor and texture may be slightly different, but it will still work well as a creamy element in the sauce. Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences.

Conclusion

I hope this recipe for Easy White Chicken Enchiladas becomes a staple in your home just like it has in mine. The creamy, cheesy goodness of these enchiladas is sure to bring smiles to your dinner table, whether it’s a cozy weeknight meal or a gathering with loved ones. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients or tweaking the spice level to suit your taste.

Remember, the key to a great meal is made with love and shared with loved ones. So whip up a batch of these Easy White Chicken Enchiladas, gather your family and friends around, and enjoy the delicious flavors and comforting warmth that this dish brings. Happy cooking and bon appétit!