I remember the first time I tried chicken enchiladas with white sauce. It was at a local Mexican restaurant with friends. One bite of those creamy, cheesy delights brought a smile to my face.
The combination of tender chicken, savory sauce, and warm tortillas wrapped around it all was unforgettable. From that moment, I was on a mission to recreate that experience right in my own kitchen.
This culinary journey is not just about indulging in a dish; it’s about embracing flavors and textures that harmonize beautifully. Join me as I walk you through how to make chicken enchiladas with white sauce. You’ll find it’s easier than you might think!
You will also like the following Dinner recipes!
- Best Panera Turkey Sandwich Recipe
- How to make Panera Bread Tuna Salad Sandwich
- Easy Panera French Onion Soup Recipe
What are Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce?
At its core, chicken enchiladas with white sauce are a glorious union of flavors wrapped in soft tortillas. The chicken is typically shredded, and the sauce—a creamy, tangy mix—elevates the dish to something truly special.
Unlike traditional enchiladas, which often feature a red sauce, this version uses a white sauce, often made with sour cream and chicken broth. It’s a delicious twist on the classic.
Why You’ll Love Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce
- Simplicity: The recipe is straightforward. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples.
- Flavorful Fusion: The interplay of the creamy white sauce and the spices truly enhances the chicken flavor.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just feeding your family, this dish is sure to impress.
- Adaptability: Made with easy-to-find ingredients, you can adjust the recipe according to your preferences.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare them in advance, which is perfect for busy nights or gatherings.
The Ingredients
Let’s gather what we need to embark on this tasty adventure. Here’s what you’ll need to make these delectable enchiladas:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles, undrained
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a subtle smoky depth)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra savoriness)
- Salt, black pepper, and Adobo seasoning, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (store-bought rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or mozzarella for a milder flavor)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (for topping)
- 10 flour tortillas (taco-sized)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients lined up, let’s dive into making these delicious enchiladas!
Step 1: Prepare the White Sauce
First, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. As it melts, add the flour. This creates a roux, which will thicken our sauce.
Whisk both together until it forms a paste, about a minute. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
As the mixture thickens, stir in the sour cream, diced green chiles, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and season with salt, black pepper, and Adobo seasoning. Bring this to a gentle simmer.
Step 2: Shred the Chicken
While the sauce simmers, let’s shred the cooked chicken. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, just pull off the meat from the bones and shred it using your fingers or a fork. Place it in a mixing bowl.
Step 3: Combine Sauce and Chicken
Once the white sauce is ready, take off the heat and reserve about a cup for later. Stir the remaining sauce into the shredded chicken. This mixture will fill our tortillas and pack them with flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Enchiladas
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Now comes the fun part! Take a tortilla and spoon a generous amount of the chicken and sauce mixture down the center. Roll it tightly and place it seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and chicken mixture.
Step 5: Top with Sauce and Cheese
Pour the reserved white sauce over the assembled enchiladas. Ensure they are coated well. Don’t skimp on that creamy goodness! Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and you’re almost there.
Step 6: Bake Time
Pop the dish into the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for bubbly cheese and a slight golden color on top.
Step 7: Let It Rest
Once it’s out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. This step allows everything to set, making it easier to serve.
Tips & Tricks
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality cheese can make a noticeable difference.
- Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you like a bit of heat.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like pepper jack for a twist or cotija for an authentic touch.
- Sauté the Veggies: Before mixing them into the enchiladas, sauté bell peppers or onions for added flavor.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro or green onions gives a fresh finish to the dish.
Can I Store Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce?
Yes! You can store chicken enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
You can also freeze them. Just make sure to cover them well if you plan to freeze them. They can last for about three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What Can I Serve with Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce?
- Mexican Rice: Simple and flavorful, it can absorb the sauce beautifully.
- Refried Beans: A classic choice that offers great texture and taste.
- Guacamole and Chips: The cool creaminess of guacamole balances the warm enchiladas.
- Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomatillo salsa adds a bright flavor.
- Corn Salad: A refreshing addition that’s great in warmer months.
Variations
- Vegetarian Enchiladas: Swap chicken for black beans or roasted vegetables. You won’t miss the meat one bit!
- Buffalo Chicken Enchiladas: Use shredded buffalo chicken for a fiery kick and add blue cheese!
- Green Sauce: Use a tomatillo green sauce instead of white sauce for a tangy flair.
- Creamy Spinach and Ricotta: Mix spinach and ricotta cheese into the filling for a creamy veggie option.
- Breakfast Enchiladas: Add scrambled eggs, chorizo, and cheese for a breakfast treat.
Equipment
- oven
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 4-ounce can diced green chiles, undrained
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder optional, for extra savory flavor
- Salt black pepper, and Adobo seasoning, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken store-bought rotisserie chicken works well
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese or mozzarella for a milder flavor
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese for topping
- 10 flour tortillas taco-sized
Instructions
- Now that we have our ingredients lined up, let’s dive into making these delicious enchiladas!
Step 1: Prepare the White Sauce
- First, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. As it melts, add the flour. This creates a roux, which will thicken our sauce.
- Whisk both together until it forms a paste, about a minute. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- As the mixture thickens, stir in the sour cream, diced green chiles, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and season with salt, black pepper, and Adobo seasoning. Bring this to a gentle simmer.
Step 2: Shred the Chicken
- While the sauce simmers, let’s shred the cooked chicken. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, just pull off the meat from the bones and shred it using your fingers or a fork. Place it in a mixing bowl.
Step 3: Combine Sauce and Chicken
- Once the white sauce is ready, take off the heat and reserve about a cup for later. Stir the remaining sauce into the shredded chicken. This mixture will fill our tortillas and pack them with flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Enchiladas
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Now comes the fun part! Take a tortilla and spoon a generous amount of the chicken and sauce mixture down the center. Roll it tightly and place it seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and chicken mixture.
Step 5: Top with Sauce and Cheese
- Pour the reserved white sauce over the assembled enchiladas. Ensure they are coated well. Don’t skimp on that creamy goodness! Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and you’re almost there.
Step 6: Bake Time
- Pop the dish into the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for bubbly cheese and a slight golden color on top.
Step 7: Let It Rest
- Once it’s out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. This step allows everything to set, making it easier to serve.
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality cheese can make a noticeable difference.
- Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you like a bit of heat.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like pepper jack for a twist or cotija for an authentic touch.
- Sauté the Veggies: Before mixing them into the enchiladas, sauté bell peppers or onions for added flavor.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro or green onions gives a fresh finish to the dish.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Absolutely! Corn tortillas are traditional in many enchilada recipes and will hold up well. Just note that you may need to soften them in oil or water before rolling to prevent them from cracking.
How spicy are these enchiladas?
The heat level depends on the spices you choose to add. The basic recipe is mild, but you can adjust it by incorporating hotter peppers or spicy seasoning.
Can I use rotisserie chicken in this recipe?
Definitely! Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor. It’s a favorite time-saver in my kitchen.
Conclusion
Making chicken enchiladas with white sauce transforms a simple weeknight meal into something extraordinary. These enchiladas are cozy, creamy, and full of flavor. They come together quickly and are perfect for both everyday dinners and special occasions.
So, fire up your kitchen and give this recipe a shot. You might find you’ve created a new family favorite! Enjoy the cooking, the flavors, and, most importantly, the delicious bites with the people you love. Happy cooking!