Easy Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas

If you're looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that's easy to make, creamy white chicken enchiladas are the perfect choice. This Tex-Mex classic combines tender chicken, a creamy white sauce, and a touch of cheese, all wrapped in soft tortillas. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends.

INGREDIENTS NEEDED

Method 1:

To make creamy white chicken enchiladas, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 8 large flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional garnishes:

• Chopped fresh cilantro
• Diced tomatoes
• Sliced green onions

INGREDIENTS NEEDED: Method 2

(SEE RECIPE CARD BELOW FOR THE FULL RECIPE)

• flour tortillas
• shredded cooked chicken
• Monterey Jack Cheese
• butter
• flour
• chicken broth
• sour cream
• diced green chiles
• salt & pepper
• Adobo seasoning

Preparation and Cooking

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour and cook for about a minute to create a roux.
4. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and continue whisking until the mixture thickens. Add the sour cream, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens further.
5. Add the cooked chicken to the skillet with the onion and garlic mixture. Stir to combine and cook for a few minutes until the chicken is heated through.
6. Take a tortilla and spoon some of the chicken filling onto the center. Roll it up and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
7. Pour the creamy white sauce evenly over the enchiladas, making sure they are fully covered. Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top.
8. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Once done, remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Success

• Choose soft and pliable tortillas that won't tear when rolled.
• For the chicken, you can use leftover roasted or grilled chicken, or cook chicken breasts and shred them.
• To prevent the sauce from curdling, stir it constantly while adding the ingredients.
• If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth to adjust the consistency.

Variations and Additions

To add extra flavors and customize your creamy white chicken enchiladas, consider these variations:

• Add chopped green chilies or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Include diced bell peppers or corn for added color and texture.
• Substitute the chicken with cooked shrimp, ground beef, or roasted vegetables for vegetarian enchiladas.
• Sprinkle crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese on top for a tangy twist.

Serving and Pairing

Creamy white chicken enchiladas are delicious on their own, but you can enhance the meal by serving them with:

• Mexican rice and refried beans for a classic combination.
• A side salad with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado.
• Guacamole and salsa for extra dipping and flavor.
• A dollop of sour cream and a squeeze of lime juice for a refreshing touch.

Enjoy these enchiladas as a main course for a family dinner, a potluck, or any occasion where you want to serve a satisfying and crowd-pleasing dish.

Conclusion

Creamy white chicken enchiladas are a versatile and comforting Tex-Mex favorite that can be easily prepared at home. With the combination of tender chicken, a creamy white sauce, and melted cheese, these enchiladas offer a burst of flavors in every bite. Whether you're cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, this delicious dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it?

   • Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and refrigerate them. When you're ready to serve, simply bake them in the preheated oven until heated through.

2. Can I freeze the enchiladas for later use?

   • Absolutely! You can freeze the enchiladas by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before baking as usual.

3. What can I substitute for the chicken in this recipe?

   • If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken with roasted vegetables, tofu, or even cooked beans.

4. Can I make the sauce spicier?

   • Yes, you can add diced green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce to make it spicier. Adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.

5. How long does it take to bake the enchiladas?

   • It usually takes about 20-25 minutes to bake the enchiladas until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning.