As I stood over the stove, a warm, mouthwatering aroma filled the kitchen, hinting at a cozy dinner ahead. My Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe has become a cherished staple in our home, striking the perfect balance between indulgence and simplicity. Each soft tortilla cradles juicy shredded chicken, all wrapped in a luxuriously creamy white sauce that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Not only is this dish a crowd-pleaser, but it also comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or heartwarming gatherings. And the best part? You can easily customize it to suit your dietary preferences, whether it’s gluten-free or dairy-free. Ready to bring comfort back to your dinner table? Let’s dive into this deliciousness!
Why Are Creamy Enchiladas So Irresistible?
Creamy Delight: The luxurious white sauce enveloping each enchilada creates an irresistible richness that leaves you craving more.
Quick & Easy: With just a few straightforward steps, you can have a comforting dinner on the table in no time.
Customizable Comfort: Perfect for adapting to your dietary needs—make it gluten-free or dairy-free without sacrificing flavor!
Crowd-Pleasing: These enchiladas bring family and friends together, making them the highlight of any gathering or cozy weeknight meal.
Heavenly Texture: Each bite combines soft tortillas with a gooey, cheesy filling, ensuring a satisfying experience every time. For a delightful side, consider pairing them with Spanish rice or a fresh salad!
Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas Ingredients
• Get ready to create cozy magic with these delicious Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas!
For the Enchiladas
- Flour Tortillas – The perfect base for wrapping up all the goodness; corn tortillas can be used for a gluten-free option.
- Cooked Shredded Chicken – This adds protein and moisture; rotisserie chicken is a tasty and time-saving choice!
- Monterey Jack Cheese – Melty and creamy, essential for that rich filling; swap in pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Cheddar Cheese – Provides a deeper flavor and lovely color; use your favorite cheese if desired, like Gouda!
- Diced Green Chiles – A touch of mild heat; fresh or canned works according to your preference.
- Cilantro – Brightens up the dish; substitute with parsley if cilantro isn’t your favorite.
- Onion – Boosts the savory flavor; opt for green onions for a milder taste.
For the White Sauce
- Butter – Necessary for creating the roux; feel free to use oil for a dairy-free version.
- All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the sauce; gluten-free flour can be a good alternative, though it may change the texture.
- Chicken Broth – Deepens the flavors; vegetable broth is a great substitute for vegetarians.
- Sour Cream – Adds creaminess to the sauce; cashew cream can work for those needing a dairy-free option.
- Cumin – Infuses a warm spice; adjust to your taste for a personalized flavor!
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; add to taste for the perfect balance.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Step 1: Prepare White Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until it turns light golden. Gradually pour in 2 cups of chicken broth while whisking continuously for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of sour cream, 1 teaspoon cumin, along with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded chicken, 1/2 cup of diced onion, 1 can of diced green chiles, 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro, and 1 cup of the cheese mixture you set aside. Gently mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, ensuring the filling is flavorful and well-balanced for your Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas.
Step 3: Assemble Enchiladas
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously spread a thin layer of the prepared white sauce across the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Take a flour tortilla and fill it with about 1/3 cup of the chicken mixture. Roll the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat the process until all ingredients are used.
Step 4: Bake
Once all the enchiladas are rolled and placed in the dish, pour the remaining white sauce over them. Sprinkle 1 cup of the remaining cheese evenly on top. Bake them uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, indicating your Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas are ready.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
After baking, remove the dish from the oven and let the enchiladas rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the sauce to set, making it easier to slice and serve. Grab your favorite side dishes, and enjoy this comforting Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe with family and friends!
How to Store and Freeze Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
Fridge: Store leftover creamy white chicken enchiladas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
Freezer: Assemble and freeze enchiladas before baking for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the enchiladas a day in advance and keep them in the fridge before baking, ensuring a quick and easy dinner option.
Reheating: For best results, reheat leftover enchiladas in the oven rather than the microwave to maintain the creamy texture.
Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these delightful variations!
- Gluten-Free: Swap flour tortillas for corn tortillas to cater to gluten-free diets.
- Dairy-Free: Use cashew cream instead of sour cream and dairy-free cheese for a creamy sauce without the dairy.
- Spicy: Replace Monterey Jack cheese with pepper jack, or add some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian: Substitute shredded chicken with a mixture of black beans and cooked spinach, keeping all the delicious flavors intact!
- Extra Texture: Add sliced olives or diced bell peppers into your filling for a crunchy twist.
- Casserole Style: Layer your ingredients in a baking dish rather than rolling them for a quick and easy white enchilada casserole version.
- Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like green onions, parsley, or even a sprinkle of oregano for an aromatic flavor boost!
- Flavor Boost: You can sauté your onions with garlic before adding them into the filling for added depth of flavor. Pair this with your favorite enchilada side, just like our Slow Cooker Chicken for a well-rounded meal!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time during busy weekdays. You can assemble the enchiladas and store them in the refrigerator up to 24 hours before baking. Simply prepare the white sauce and filling, then roll the tortillas and place them seam-side down in the baking dish, covering it with plastic wrap to keep them fresh. For longer storage, they can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just make sure to wrap tightly in foil or a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake from frozen for an additional 10-15 minutes, adding time if needed, and savor a homemade dinner that’s just as delicious as when it was first made!
What to Serve with Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
Create a complete and delicious meal that resonates with warmth and cheer.
- Spanish Rice: This classic side adds fluffy, savory goodness, infusing your meal with authentic flavors that pair beautifully with the enchiladas’ creamy sauce.
- Refried Beans: Silky, protein-packed beans complement the enchiladas while adding a hearty element, enhancing the overall comfort food vibe of your dinner.
- Avocado Salad: A fresh salad with slices of avocado, tomatoes, and cilantro balances the richness of the enchiladas and provides a refreshing crunch.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky corn on the cob offers a delightful contrast in texture and flavor, perfect for a summer gathering or casual weeknight.
- Mexican Street Corn: With its creamy, tangy dressing and sprinkle of cheese, this dish brings vibrant flavors to the table, beautifully complementing the enchiladas.
- Pico de Gallo: A bright, zesty salsa adds a fresh note that lightens the dish while providing a refreshing crunch, making every bite an adventure.
- Guacamole: Creamy and flavorful, guacamole creates a delightful dip that pairs with your enchiladas for added richness that’s hard to resist.
- Chips and Salsa: A crunchy appetizer before the main course invites your guests to snack and mingle while waiting for the star dish—the creamy white chicken enchiladas.
- Margaritas: For a festive drink option, margaritas add a zingy and refreshing aspect to your dinner, enhancing that warm, inviting atmosphere.
Expert Tips for Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
Consistency Check: Ensure your white sauce is smooth; it should coat the back of a spoon. Reserve extra chicken broth to adjust thickness if necessary.
Warm Tortillas: Microwave your tortillas for about 10-15 seconds before rolling; this makes them more pliable and prevents tearing while wrapping.
Resting Time: Allow the enchiladas to sit for 5 minutes after baking; this helps the creamy white chicken enchiladas slice neatly and keeps them gooey.
Fill Generously: Don’t skimp on the filling! Use about ⅓ cup for each tortilla to ensure flavorful bites in every mouthful.
Customize Wisely: Feel free to switch up ingredients, like using corn tortillas for a gluten-free option or swapping cheeses for a unique twist!
Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe FAQs
What type of tortillas should I use for these enchiladas?
Flour tortillas are the classic choice for creamy white chicken enchiladas, offering a soft texture that wraps beautifully around the filling. However, if you need a gluten-free option, corn tortillas work quite well! Just warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds beforehand to make rolling easier.
How long can I store leftover enchiladas?
You can store leftover creamy white chicken enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Whenever you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, which usually takes about 20 minutes.
Can I freeze the enchiladas?
Absolutely! You can assemble creamy white chicken enchiladas and freeze them before baking for up to 3 months. Just cover them tightly with foil and place them in the freezer. When you’re ready to cook, bake them directly from frozen, adding an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure they are heated thoroughly.
What if my white sauce becomes too thick?
If your white sauce turns out too thick while preparing, don’t fret! Simply add a little reserved chicken broth, a tablespoon at a time, whisking until you reach the desired consistency. The sauce should be smooth enough to coat the back of a spoon but not overly runny, which will yield a perfectly creamy result.
Are these enchiladas suitable for dairy-free diets?
Certainly! To make the creamy white chicken enchiladas dairy-free, simply substitute sour cream with cashew cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The flavor will still be delightful, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy this comforting dish!
Comforting Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe for Dinner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare White Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup of flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden. Gradually add 2 cups of chicken broth while whisking for 3-4 minutes until thick. Stir in 1 cup of sour cream, 1 teaspoon cumin, salt and pepper to taste.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded chicken, 1/2 cup onion, 1 can diced green chiles, 1/4 cup cilantro, and 1 cup cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble Enchiladas: Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread a thin layer of white sauce in a greased baking dish. Fill each tortilla with 1/3 cup chicken mixture, roll it tightly and place seam-side down in the dish.
- Bake: Pour remaining white sauce over rolled enchiladas and sprinkle 1 cup cheese on top. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Rest and Serve: Let enchiladas rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides.
