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There’s something magical about a dish that wraps you in warmth and leaves you satisfied with every bite. Cheesy White Chicken Enchiladas are that kind of meal—comfort food at its finest. With a creamy white sauce, tender chicken, and gooey melted cheese, this dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and simplicity. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or simply treating yourself, these enchiladas promise to be a crowd-pleaser every time.
Why You’ll Love These Cheesy White Chicken Enchiladas
This recipe isn’t just about great taste; it’s about creating a memorable experience. Here’s why these enchiladas will become your go-to comfort food:
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of a velvety white sauce and melted Monterey Jack cheese makes this dish irresistibly rich.
- Simple to Prepare: With straightforward steps and easy-to-find ingredients, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These enchiladas are versatile enough for casual weeknight dinners or special gatherings.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level, swap ingredients, or add extras to suit your personal preferences.
If you’re looking for a dish that’s both indulgent and easy to make, this is it
Ingredients for Cheesy White Chicken Enchiladas
Here’s a detailed breakdown of everything you’ll need to make this comforting dish. Each ingredient contributes to the layers of flavor and texture that make these enchiladas unforgettable.
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Enchilada Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Small Flour Tortillas | 8-10 |
Cooked Chicken (shredded or chopped) | 3 cups |
Monterey Jack Cheese (shredded) | 3 cups (divided) |
Unsalted Butter | 3 tablespoons |
All-Purpose Flour | 3 tablespoons |
Chicken Broth | 2 cups |
Sour Cream | 1 cup |
Diced Green Chilies (mild) | 1 (4 oz) can |
Green Onions (sliced) | 2-3 tablespoons |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesy White Chicken Enchiladas
Creating these enchiladas is straightforward, even if you’re not a seasoned cook. Follow these steps for a fail-proof dish:
1. Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Filling
- In a small bowl, mix shredded chicken with 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese. This will be the base of your enchilada filling.
3. Assemble the Enchiladas
- Lay a tortilla flat on your workspace.
- Add a generous scoop of the chicken and cheese mixture to the center of the tortilla.
- Roll the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
4. Make the White Sauce
- Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to create a roux.
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and cook until the sauce thickens and becomes bubbly, about 3-5 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let the sauce cool slightly. Stir in the sour cream and diced green chilies until smooth.
5. Pour and Bake
- Pour the white sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of Monterey Jack cheese over the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the enchiladas are heated through and the sauce is bubbling. For a golden, crispy top, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Once out of the oven, sprinkle sliced green onions over the enchiladas for a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy perfection.
Tips for the Best Cheesy White Chicken Enchiladas
To make sure your enchiladas turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Prevent Curdling: Let the sauce cool slightly before adding sour cream to avoid curdling.
- Fresh Ingredients: Freshly shredded cheese melts better and enhances the dish’s flavor.
- Customize the Filling: Add black beans, corn, or even sautéed vegetables for extra texture and flavor.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the enchiladas up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake fresh when ready to serve.
Variations of the Recipe
These enchiladas are versatile and easy to adapt. Here are some ideas to make them your own:
Gluten-Free Version
- Use gluten-free tortillas and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative.
Low-Carb Option
- Replace tortillas with zucchini slices or low-carb wraps for a lighter version.
Vegetarian Option
- Swap the chicken for black beans, roasted vegetables, or tofu for a meat-free dish.
Spicy Twist
- Use medium or hot green chilies instead of mild ones, or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the white sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the enchiladas, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Can I freeze these enchiladas?
Absolutely. Assemble the enchiladas and freeze them before baking. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, adding an extra 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.
What can I serve with these enchiladas?
Pair them with a fresh green salad, Mexican rice, or black beans for a complete meal.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a time-saving option that works perfectly in this recipe.
Conclusion
Cheesy White Chicken Enchiladas are more than just a dish; they’re a way to bring people together over comforting, satisfying flavors. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and gooey cheese create a meal that’s both indulgent and easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, these enchiladas are sure to impress.
Now it’s your turn to try this delicious recipe. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the ultimate comfort food. Don’t forget to share your experience and any creative twists in the comments below. Happy cooking!
PrintCheesy White Chicken Enchiladas – Comfort Food Perfection
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4-6
Description
Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken, these White Chicken Enchiladas are the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for family dinners or hosting friends, this dish is a crowd-pleaser every time.
Ingredients
For the Enchiladas:
- 8–10 small flour tortillas
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 3 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (divided)
For the White Sauce:
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- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies (mild)
For Garnish:
- 2–3 tablespoons green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray and set aside.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix shredded chicken with 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese. This will serve as the filling for the enchiladas.
- Assemble the Enchiladas:
- Lay a tortilla flat and add a generous scoop of the chicken and cheese mixture to the center.
- Roll the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Make the White Sauce:
- Melt butter in a medium skillet over medium heat.
- Add flour and whisk continuously for 1 minute to create a roux.
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, cooking until the mixture thickens and becomes bubbly, about 3-5 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in sour cream and diced green chilies until smooth.
- Pour and Bake:
- Pour the white sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of Monterey Jack cheese over the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the enchiladas are heated through and the sauce is bubbling. For a golden finish, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle sliced green onions over the enchiladas for a fresh finish.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Let the white sauce cool slightly before adding sour cream to avoid curdling.
- Freshly shredded cheese melts better and creates a creamier texture.
- Add black beans or corn to the filling for extra texture and flavor.
- Assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and refrigerate; bake when ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired