brief summary
Looking for a creamy, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress at any dinner table? This white chicken enchilada recipe is your perfect solution! With its rich, cheesy sauce and tender chicken wrapped in soft tortillas, it’s comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or prepping a meal for the week, these enchiladas are quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying.
What makes this recipe stand out? It’s not just about great flavor—it’s about convenience. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dish that feels indulgent yet remains healthy and light. Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit different tastes, whether you prefer a mild or spicy kick.
So, if you’re ready to indulge in a creamy, cheesy delight that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen, keep reading for the full recipe and some expert tips!
Key Benefits of This White Chicken Enchilada Recipe
This white chicken enchilada recipe isn’t just delicious—it offers several amazing benefits that make it a go-to meal in any kitchen:
- Quick and Easy: If you’re short on time but still want something comforting and tasty, this recipe has you covered. With just 30 minutes of prep and cook time, you can have a satisfying meal on the table in no time.
- Versatile: Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a small batch for a family dinner, this recipe can easily be scaled to fit your needs. Plus, it works well for both casual weeknights or more festive occasions.
- Packed with Flavor: The creamy, tangy white sauce combined with tender chicken creates an irresistible combination. It’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors, making each bite more enjoyable than the last.
- Customizable: Want to spice things up? Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the sauce. Prefer a vegetarian option? Simply swap the chicken for beans or roasted vegetables! You can make this recipe your own while keeping it just as delicious.
- Healthy Comfort Food: While this dish is indulgent, it doesn’t skimp on nutrients. With lean chicken and a lighter, creamy sauce, this enchilada recipe provides the comfort food you crave, without all the heaviness.
- Minimal Cleanup: One of the best parts? You’ll only need one pan to prepare these enchiladas. Less mess means more time enjoying your meal and less time cleaning up afterward!
This recipe checks all the boxes for a meal that’s easy, versatile, and downright irresistible. Now, let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to bring this delicious dish to life!
Ingredients for White Chicken Enchiladas
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked chicken breast | 2 cups shredded | Use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or cook and shred your own. |
| Flour tortillas | 8-10 tortillas (depending on size) | You can also use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option. |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz (1 package) | Softened for easy mixing. |
| Sour cream | 1/2 cup | Adds creaminess to the sauce. |
| Green chilies (canned) | 1 can (4 oz) | Mild or spicy, depending on your preference. |
| Chicken broth | 1 cup | Helps make the sauce creamy and flavorful. |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 1 cup | For a stretchy, melty texture. |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup | Adds sharp flavor and a golden color when melted. |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon | Adds depth to the flavor. |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon | Adds a savory, mild sweetness. |
| Cumin | 1 teaspoon | Gives the enchiladas a warm, earthy flavor. |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | To taste, enhances overall flavor. |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | Optional, for a mild kick. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready to cook your enchiladas to golden perfection.
Prepare the Chicken
If you haven’t done so already, shred the cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. You can use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option or cook your own chicken breasts by boiling or pan-searing them before shredding.
Make the White Sauce
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, and green chilies. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the cream cheese has melted and the mixture is smooth. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for about 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Assemble the Enchiladas
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a small amount of the white sauce at the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking. Next, place a tortilla on a flat surface, spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the shredded chicken in the center, and then pour some of the white sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle with a little shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Roll the tortilla up tightly and place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
Top with Sauce and Cheese
Once all the tortillas are rolled and placed in the dish, pour the remaining white sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle the rest of the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the enchiladas, making sure to cover them completely.
Bake the Enchiladas
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Garnish and Serve
Remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or a few slices of avocado, if desired.
Pro Tips and Variations
Extra Toppings: Serve with fresh toppings like guacamole, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or a squeeze of lime for added freshness. A drizzle of homemade or store-bought salsa verde also pairs perfectly with the creamy enchiladas.
Make Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the enchiladas up to the point of baking. Simply assemble them in the baking dish, cover with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Add a Kick: If you like your enchiladas spicy, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the white sauce. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes over the top before baking for an extra layer of heat.
Swap the Meat: While chicken is the star of this recipe, you can easily swap it for ground turkey, beef, or even shredded pork for a different flavor. For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with black beans, sweet potatoes, or a combination of roasted vegetables.
Gluten-Free Option: To make this dish gluten-free, swap the flour tortillas for gluten-free tortillas. You can find these in most grocery stores, and they’ll work just as well in this recipe.
Cheese Options: If you’re looking for a cheese variation, try adding some pepper jack cheese for a little extra spice or a mix of mozzarella and Monterey Jack for a creamy, smooth texture. A sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco on top also adds a nice touch of flavor.
Freeze for Later: These enchiladas freeze wonderfully! After baking, let them cool completely. Wrap individual servings in foil or plastic wrap, and then freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
Serving Suggestions
These white chicken enchiladas are a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and toppings. Here are some delicious ideas to elevate your meal:
Spicy Pickled Vegetables: For those who enjoy a bit of tang, serve with a side of pickled vegetables. The acidity and spice from pickled jalapeños, carrots, and onions will cut through the richness of the enchiladas.
Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad is a perfect complement to the creamy, cheesy enchiladas. Try a simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a classic Mexican-style salad with avocado, corn, and black beans.
Rice: Serve your enchiladas with a side of fluffy cilantro-lime rice or Mexican rice. The slight acidity from the lime and the richness of the rice balance out the creaminess of the enchiladas beautifully.
Refried Beans: Classic refried beans add a hearty and flavorful side to this dish. You can go with traditional pinto beans or opt for black beans for a slightly different twist.
Corn on the Cob: For a more festive touch, serve your enchiladas with grilled or roasted corn on the cob. Sprinkle with chili powder, lime, and a little bit of cotija cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Guacamole and Sour Cream: Nothing complements the richness of white chicken enchiladas like a dollop of cool, creamy sour cream or fresh guacamole. Add a few lime wedges for a zesty finish.
Tortilla Chips and Salsa: Serve with a side of crispy tortilla chips and a variety of salsas. You could go for a traditional red salsa, or try something different like a tomatillo salsa or creamy avocado salsa for a refreshing twist.
Conclusion
There you have it – a simple yet mouthwatering white chicken enchilada recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite! Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or something to impress your guests at your next gathering, this dish delivers on both flavor and ease. The creamy white sauce, tender chicken, and melted cheese come together perfectly, making every bite irresistible.
Not only is this recipe versatile, but it’s also easy to make ahead, so you can enjoy a stress-free cooking experience. With countless ways to personalize it, you’ll never run out of new combinations to try.
Give it a try today and indulge in a meal that’s both satisfying and full of flavor. Don’t forget to let us know how it turned out in the comments or share your version on social media! We’d love to hear your tips and variations!
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Yes! If you prefer a gluten-free option or enjoy the flavor of corn tortillas, feel free to swap them in. Keep in mind that corn tortillas are more delicate, so you may want to warm them up slightly before rolling to prevent cracking.
2. Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the enchiladas up to 24 hours in advance. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven and bake as directed.
3. Can I freeze white chicken enchiladas?
Yes, these enchiladas freeze well. After baking, allow them to cool completely. Then, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until heated through.
4. Can I use a store-bought enchilada sauce?
While the homemade white sauce is what makes this recipe special, you can substitute with a store-bought enchilada sauce if you’re short on time. However, the creamy texture and mild flavor of the white sauce are key to this dish.
5. What type of chicken should I use?
Shredded cooked chicken works best for this recipe. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or cook and shred your own chicken breasts. Make sure the chicken is tender and well-seasoned for the best flavor.
6. Can I make this recipe spicier?
Yes! If you like a bit of heat, you can add sliced jalapeños or other chili peppers to the filling or sauce. You can also use spicy green chilies or add some hot sauce to the white sauce to kick up the spice level.
7. How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, use dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream alternatives. For the cheese, you can try dairy-free shredded cheese or skip it altogether for a lighter version.
8. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes, you can! If you want to make this a slow-cooker recipe, simply layer the ingredients in the slow cooker, pour the sauce over the top, and cook on low for 4-6 hours. The enchiladas will come out perfectly tender and flavorful.