Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas – Cheesy, Savory, and Irresistible

Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas are a delightful twist on the classic Mexican favorite, featuring tender shredded chicken, melty cheeses, and a rich, creamy white sauce. These enchiladas are perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or special occasions, combining the flavors of rotisserie chicken, green chiles, and aromatic spices in every bite.

Unlike traditional red enchiladas, the creamy white sauce adds a velvety texture and subtle richness that pairs perfectly with the shredded chicken and cheese. Each flour tortilla is filled with a savory mixture, rolled, and baked with layers of cheese for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish. Garnished with fresh cilantro, these enchiladas are as beautiful as they are delicious.

Ingredients

• 8–10 medium flour tortillas
• 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• ½ cup diced green chiles (canned or fresh)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 tablespoons butter (for white sauce)
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for roux)
• 2 cups chicken broth (for white sauce)
• 1 cup sour cream, room temperature
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste

These ingredients create a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful enchilada filling. The combination of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses adds richness and depth, while green chiles provide a subtle, pleasant heat. Fresh cilantro adds brightness and freshness to the finished dish.

Preparation Method

1. Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar casserole dish for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the White Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour to form a roux and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the sour cream, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

3. Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, ½ cup cheddar cheese, diced onion, and green chiles. Mix well to ensure even distribution of ingredients.

4. Assemble the Enchiladas

Spread a thin layer of the white sauce in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Lay a flour tortilla on a flat surface, spoon a generous portion of the chicken mixture into the center, and roll it tightly. Place the rolled tortilla seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling, arranging them side by side.

5. Top with Sauce and Cheese

Pour the remaining white sauce evenly over the enchiladas. Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese over the top. The sauce and cheese will melt together, creating a creamy, bubbly topping.

6. Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.

7. Garnish and Serve

Remove the enchiladas from the oven and allow them to rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top for freshness and flavor. Serve hot with optional sides such as rice, beans, or a crisp salad.

Tips and Variations

• Tortilla Options: Use whole wheat or low-carb tortillas for a healthier variation.
• Cheese Variations: Add pepper jack for a spicier kick or a blend of cheeses for extra richness.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the enchiladas in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
• Vegetable Additions: Add sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the chicken mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spice Level: Add a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeños for extra heat.

Nutritional Benefits

These enchiladas provide a balanced meal with protein from the chicken, calcium from the cheese, and vitamins from the green chiles and cilantro. Using a white sauce made with sour cream and chicken broth keeps the dish creamy without excess heaviness. By including optional vegetables, you can increase fiber and nutrient content, making this a hearty yet nutritious family meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe and saves time.

Can I freeze the enchiladas?
Yes, assemble but do not bake, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cheese and sour cream alternatives to make it suitable for a dairy-free diet.

Can I make this spicy?
Yes, add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the chicken mixture or white sauce for extra heat.

How long do leftovers last?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

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Conclusion

Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas are a comforting, flavorful, and cheesy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken, melty cheeses, green chiles, and a rich white sauce, these enchiladas are easy to make and sure to impress. Fully customizable with extra vegetables or spice, they’re a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish for family dinners, potlucks, or casual entertaining. Each bite delivers creamy, cheesy, and savory satisfaction, making them a favorite in any household.