White chicken enchiladas offer a delightful variation to traditional enchiladas, featuring tender chicken enveloped in soft tortillas and smothered in a rich, creamy white sauce. This dish combines the savory flavors of shredded chicken, melted cheese, and mild green chilies, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Filling:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup canned diced green chilies (mild or medium)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
For the White Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded white cheese (Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a combination)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
For Assembly:
- 8-10 soft flour tortillas (6-inch size)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Filling:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the shredded chicken to the skillet, followed by ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to evenly coat the chicken with the spices.
- Mix in the diced green chilies and cook for another 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Remove the skillet from heat and fold in 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese and chopped fresh cilantro, if using. Set the mixture aside.
- Prepare the White Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, whisking continuously to form a smooth paste. Cook for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking to ensure a lump-free mixture. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens, approximately 3-5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and softened cream cheese. Stir until both are fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth.
- Mix in the shredded white cheese, allowing it to melt completely. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, if desired. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Enchiladas:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Lay a flour tortilla flat and place approximately 1/3 cup of the chicken filling in the center. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and position it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
- Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling, arranging them snugly in the dish.
- Add the Sauce and Bake:
- Evenly pour the prepared white sauce over the assembled enchiladas, ensuring all are well-covered.
- Sprinkle additional shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese has melted and begun to brown slightly.
- For a golden-brown top, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, monitoring closely to prevent burning.
- Serve:
- Once baked, remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges, if desired.
Tips and Variations
- Spice Level: For a spicier version, incorporate diced jalapeños into the chicken filling or use Pepper Jack cheese.
- Tortilla Choice: While flour tortillas provide a soft texture, corn tortillas can be used for a more traditional flavor. If using corn tortillas, lightly fry them in oil before filling to prevent cracking.
- Make-Ahead: These enchiladas can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if taken directly from the fridge.
- Freezing: To freeze, assemble the enchiladas without the sauce, wrap tightly, and store. When ready to bake, thaw, add the sauce, and bake as directed.
This creamy white chicken enchilada recipe offers a delectable twist on a classic dish, combining rich flavors and a comforting texture. Whether serving for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these enchiladas are sure to impress your family and guests. The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and warm, soft tortillas makes this dish a crowd-pleaser.
Pairing Suggestions
Enhance your enchilada experience by serving them with these complementary sides:
- Mexican Rice – A classic side dish that adds texture and a subtle spice to balance the creamy enchiladas.
- Refried Beans – A rich, savory addition that pairs perfectly with the flavors of the enchiladas.
- Guacamole and Salsa – Fresh and tangy dips that bring a refreshing contrast to the dish.
- Crisp Green Salad – A light side to add freshness and crunch to your meal.
Common Questions About White Chicken Enchiladas
Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a time-saver and adds a depth of flavor. Simply shred and mix it with the seasonings before assembling the enchiladas.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute flour tortillas with gluten-free corn tortillas and ensure that the broth and other ingredients you use are gluten-free.
What type of cheese works best for white enchiladas?
Monterey Jack and Pepper Jack melt beautifully and add a mild, creamy taste. If you prefer a sharper flavor, try a blend with white cheddar or Oaxaca cheese.
Final Thoughts
These Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas bring comfort food to a new level with their luscious sauce and perfectly seasoned filling. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight meal or a dish to impress at a dinner gathering, this recipe delivers both flavor and convenience. With easy customization options and make-ahead potential, it’s a great go-to meal for any occasion.
Try this recipe and enjoy a warm, cheesy bite of goodness! Let us know in the comments how your enchiladas turned out, and feel free to share your favorite variations!