White Chicken Enchiladas

Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas are a delightful twist on traditional Mexican cuisine. These enchiladas combine tender chicken with a luscious cheese filling, all enveloped in soft flour tortillas. Topped with a rich white sauce and extra cheese, this dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a comforting meal. The creamy texture and savory flavors make it an irresistible choice for both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and everyday ingredients, making these enchiladas is a breeze.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of chicken, cheese, and spices ensures each bite is packed with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course for dinner or served at parties; you can even customize the fillings!
• Make-Ahead Option: Assemble ahead of time and bake when ready—ideal for busy days.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and cheesy goodness are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 baking dish
• Saucepan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 baking dish: Ideal size for baking the enchiladas evenly.
• Saucepan: Necessary for preparing the creamy sauce that elevates the dish.
• Mixing bowl: Allows you to easily combine ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Ensures your sauce is smooth by eliminating lumps.

Ingredients

For the Enchiladas

• 2 cups boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2.5 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or Pepper Jack cheese)
• 5 ounces cream cheese
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 4 ounces canned diced green chilies
• 10 soft flour tortillas

For the Creamy Sauce

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup sour cream

How to Make White Chicken Enchiladas

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

• Cook chicken using your preferred method—boiling, baking, or using rotisserie chicken for convenience.

Step 2: Prepare Your Oven and Dish

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9×13 baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Make the Filling

• In a mixing bowl, shred the cooked chicken with a fork if necessary.
• Add 3/4 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or Pepper Jack), garlic powder, and cream cheese to the bowl.
• Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

• In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
• Stir in flour and taco seasoning; cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
• Gradually add in 2 cups of chicken broth while whisking until smooth.
• Continue heating until thickened and bubbly; then stir in sour cream and chilies. Remove from heat—do not boil.

Step 5: Assemble the Enchiladas

• Place some of the chicken mixture into each tortilla shell, roll them up tightly, and arrange them seam-side down in your greased baking dish.

Step 6: Add Sauce and Cheese

• Pour the creamy sauce over the rolled enchiladas.
• Sprinkle remaining shredded cheese on top.

Step 7: Bake

• Bake in preheated oven for about 22 minutes.
• For an extra golden finish, broil on high for an additional 3 minutes.

Now you have a delightful batch of White Chicken Enchiladas ready to serve! Enjoy this tasty meal with your loved ones.

How to Serve White Chicken Enchiladas

Serving White Chicken Enchiladas can elevate your meal experience. These enchiladas are versatile and pair well with various sides and toppings that enhance their creamy goodness.

Toppings

• Fresh cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.
• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the flavors.
• Sliced jalapeños: For those who enjoy heat, sliced jalapeños give a spicy kick.

Sides

• Mexican rice: Serve alongside flavorful Mexican rice for a hearty meal.
• Refried beans: Creamy refried beans complement the dish well and add protein.
• Guacamole: A side of guacamole provides healthy fats and enhances the flavor profile.

Salads

• Corn salad: A refreshing corn salad with lime dressing pairs nicely with the enchiladas.
• Cabbage slaw: A crunchy cabbage slaw adds texture and a zesty element to the plate.

How to Perfect White Chicken Enchiladas

Perfecting your White Chicken Enchiladas involves attention to detail in both preparation and cooking. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use rotisserie chicken: For a quick and flavorful option, using rotisserie chicken saves time while adding depth to the dish.
• Don’t overfill tortillas: Filling tortillas too much may lead to tearing. Use just enough filling for easy rolling.
• Whisk sauce thoroughly: Ensuring your sauce is smooth prevents lumps and ensures even distribution over the enchiladas.
• Bake until bubbly: Baking until the cheese is bubbly ensures the enchiladas are heated through and flavors meld together beautifully.
• Let them rest before serving: Allowing the enchiladas to rest for a few minutes after baking helps set the sauce for easier serving.

Best Side Dishes for White Chicken Enchiladas

Pairing side dishes with your White Chicken Enchiladas can create a balanced and satisfying meal. Consider these tasty options:

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the rich flavors of the enchiladas perfectly.
2. Refried Beans: Rich and creamy, refried beans offer an excellent source of protein and pair well with this dish.
3. Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip adds freshness and flavor, enhancing each bite of enchilada.
4. Mexican Street Corn Salad: Combining sweet corn, lime, and cheese creates a vibrant salad that brightens the plate.
5. Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro provide a zesty topping that contrasts well with creamy enchiladas.
6. Cabbage Slaw: Crunchy slaw dressed in lime vinaigrette brings texture and tanginess to balance the richness of the enchiladas.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making White Chicken Enchiladas, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using Cold Ingredients: Using cold cream cheese or shredded chicken can prevent even mixing and creamy texture. Always ensure these ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
• Overcooking the Sauce: Cooking the sauce too long can cause it to become too thick or separate. Keep an eye on it and remove from heat as soon as it’s bubbly.
• Not Shredding Chicken Properly: Leaving large pieces of chicken can lead to uneven filling distribution. Make sure to shred the chicken finely for better flavor in every bite.
• Skipping Greasing the Pan: Not greasing your baking dish may cause the enchiladas to stick. Always grease your pan well to avoid this issue.
• Filling Tortillas Too Much: Overfilling the tortillas can lead to tearing when rolling them up. Use just enough filling for a neat roll without breaking.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Baking for too long can dry out the enchiladas. Stick closely to recommended baking times for a perfect finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover White Chicken Enchiladas in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing White Chicken Enchiladas

• Wrap individual enchiladas tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating White Chicken Enchiladas

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place enchiladas in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place enchiladas on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water, cover, and steam until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding White Chicken Enchiladas:

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to substitute Monterey Jack with any cheese you prefer, such as Pepper Jack or Cheddar.

How do I make this recipe spicier?

To add heat, include diced jalapeños or use spicy taco seasoning in your filling mixture.

What can I serve with White Chicken Enchiladas?

These enchiladas pair well with Mexican rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I make White Chicken Enchiladas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble them and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold.

Final Thoughts

White Chicken Enchiladas are not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to fit any dinner occasion. You can customize them by adding different vegetables or spices according to your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy delicious homemade enchiladas that will impress family and friends!

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White Chicken Enchiladas

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in the comforting delight of White Chicken Enchiladas, a delicious twist on classic Mexican cuisine. These enchiladas feature tender, shredded chicken enveloped in soft flour tortillas and filled with a creamy cheese mixture. Topped with a rich white sauce and extra cheese, they make for an irresistible meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This recipe is easy to follow and can be customized to suit your taste, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, these enchiladas will not disappoint!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2.5 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 5 ounces cream cheese
• 10 soft flour tortillas
• 2 cups chicken broth
• Taco seasoning
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder

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Instructions

1. Cook the chicken using your preferred method until fully cooked.
2. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
3. In a mixing bowl, shred the cooked chicken and combine it with cream cheese, garlic powder, and 3/4 cup of cheese.
4. In a saucepan, melt butter, stir in flour and taco seasoning, then gradually add chicken broth while whisking until thickened. Stir in sour cream and green chilies.
5. Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture, roll it up tightly, and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
6. Pour the sauce over the enchiladas and top with remaining cheese.
7. Bake for about 22 minutes until heated through.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 enchilada (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 340
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 21g
• Cholesterol: 75mg