White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

Irresistibly Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

Simmering with zesty goodness, these white chicken enchiladas promise a mouthwatering adventure for dinner tonight.

Mexican cuisine rarely gets more comforting than this creamy, cheesy delight.

Soft tortillas wrap tender shredded chicken in a luxurious sauce that dances with flavor.

Pulling a bubbling dish straight from the oven, steam carrying irresistible aromas throughout your kitchen.

Each bite blends subtle spices and rich, melted cheese into a perfect harmony.

Home cooks looking for a crowd-pleasing meal will absolutely adore this simple yet spectacular recipe.

Gather around the table and watch everyone’s eyes light up with the first delectable forkful.

Why White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe Is A Creamy Hit

  • Creamy Comfort Delight: These white chicken enchiladas deliver a luxurious, velvety experience with their rich white sauce and melted cheese that hugs each tortilla perfectly.
  • Quick Weeknight Winner: Prep time is minimal, taking less than 45 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal solution for busy families craving a delicious homemade meal.
  • Customizable Flavor Adventure: Easily adapt the recipe by adding different peppers, switching cheese varieties, or incorporating extra spices to match your taste preferences and pantry ingredients.
  • One-Pan Simplicity Magic: Minimal kitchen cleanup required since everything bakes together in a single dish, reducing post-dinner dishwashing stress and making mealtime more enjoyable.

Everything You Need For White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

Protein Base:
  • Chicken: The star protein that provides a tender and flavorful filling for the enchiladas.
  • Chicken Broth: Adds depth and moisture to the white sauce, enhancing the overall flavor.
Dairy Components:
  • Sour Cream, Cheese (Monterey Jack and/or Cheddar): Creates a rich, creamy texture and adds tangy, melty goodness to the dish. Choose full-fat versions for best results.
Wrap and Seasoning:
  • Tortillas: Soft flour tortillas that hold the chicken filling and create the classic enchilada shape.
  • Green Chilies, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, Pepper: Provide a balanced, zesty flavor profile with a subtle kick.
Sauce Binding Ingredients:
  • Butter, Flour: Form the base of the white sauce, creating a smooth and creamy consistency.
Optional Garnish:
  • Cilantro, Jalapenos, Diced Tomatoes: Fresh toppings that add color, brightness, and extra flavor to the dish.

How To Make White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a cozy 350°F. Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a quick spray of cooking oil to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Create the Chicken Filling

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine these flavor-packed ingredients:
  • Shredded chicken (tender and juicy)
  • Shredded cheese (a delightful blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar)
  • Creamy sour cream
  • Zesty green chilies

Scoop 2-3 tablespoons of this magical mixture into the center of each tortilla. Roll them up snugly, tucking in the sides as you go. Nestle these rolled beauties seam-side down in your prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Craft the Silky White Sauce

Grab a medium saucepan and let’s work some sauce magic:
  • Melt butter over medium heat
  • Sprinkle in flour and whisk like a pro for about a minute
  • Slowly pour in chicken broth, whisking constantly to create a smooth base
  • Once the sauce thickens slightly, remove from heat
  • Stir in
  • Sour cream
  • Shredded cheese
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Whisk until the sauce becomes a creamy dream.

Step 4: Drench in Deliciousness

Pour the luscious white sauce over the enchiladas, making sure every inch is covered in saucy goodness.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Sprinkle a generous layer of additional cheese on top. Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese transforms into a golden, bubbly masterpiece.

Step 6: Finish and Feast

Let the enchiladas rest for 5 minutes – patience is key! Sprinkle with fresh cilantro, add some sliced jalapenos, or toss on diced tomatoes for extra pizzazz. Serve hot and watch everyone’s eyes light up with excitement!

Tips For Perfect White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

  • Customize Chicken Varieties: Swap rotisserie, grilled, or leftover chicken for a quick and versatile meal adaptation.
  • Balance Spice Levels: Adjust green chilies and jalapeños to match your heat preference, using mild or hot versions.
  • Gluten-Free Hack: Replace regular flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend in the white sauce for celiac-friendly preparation.
  • Cheese Swap Options: Experiment with monterey jack, cheddar, pepper jack, or Mexican blend cheeses to create unique flavor profiles.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble enchiladas in advance, refrigerate up to 24 hours, and bake when ready to serve for convenient meal planning.

Storing White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe The Right Way

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Properly sealed, they'll stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Freeze: Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe containers. Frozen enchiladas maintain quality for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat Oven: Restore crispy texture by placing enchiladas in a 350F oven. Cover with foil to prevent drying, and warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
  • Microwave: Quick reheating works best for single servings. Zap at 50% power in 30-second intervals, checking temperature between each burst to avoid overcooking.

What Pairs Well With White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

  • Pair with Zesty Margaritas: Complement the creamy, cheesy enchiladas with a classic margarita. The citrusy lime and tequila will cut through the richness, creating a perfect balance of flavors that dance on your taste buds.
  • Serve with Fresh Mexican Salad: Create a light, crisp side salad with mixed greens, diced tomatoes, avocado, and a tangy lime vinaigrette. The fresh ingredients will provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty enchiladas.
  • Add Mexican Street Corn: Whip up some elote (Mexican street corn) as a side dish. The charred, creamy corn with chili powder, cotija cheese, and lime will complement the enchiladas' creamy white sauce and add a delightful textural element.
  • Cool Down with Horchata: Pair the spicy and rich enchiladas with a cool, sweet horchata. This traditional rice drink will soothe your palate and provide a smooth, refreshing counterpoint to the dish's bold flavors.

Fun Variations Of White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

  • Spicy Southwest Sensation: Kick up the heat by adding diced jalapeños, chipotle peppers, and a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture. Top with extra hot sauce for serious spice lovers.
  • Green Chile Chicken Comfort: Replace the white sauce with a creamy green chile sauce by blending roasted green chiles, sour cream, and chicken broth. Incorporate diced green chiles directly into the chicken filling for an extra punch of flavor.
  • Healthy Protein Powerhouse: Swap traditional tortillas for low-carb cauliflower tortillas or lettuce wraps. Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and add quinoa to the chicken mixture for added protein and nutrition.
  • Mediterranean Fusion Enchiladas: Transform the recipe by mixing the chicken with feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs like oregano and basil. Create a lighter sauce using Greek yogurt and lemon zest for a Mediterranean-inspired twist.

Common Questions About White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

  • What makes these White Chicken Enchiladas different from traditional enchiladas?

These enchiladas feature a creamy white sauce instead of the typical red sauce, giving them a rich, velvety texture and unique flavor profile that sets them apart from classic Mexican-style enchiladas.

  • Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a perfect time-saving option that works great in this recipe. Just shred the meat and mix it with the other filling ingredients as directed.

  • Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe is mild, but you can easily adjust the heat by adding diced green chilies or jalapenos to the filling or as a topping. For those who love extra kick, sprinkle some additional spices or add hot sauce when serving.

  • How can I make this recipe healthier?

To lighten up the dish, you can use low-fat cheese, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and whole wheat tortillas. You can also add more vegetables to the chicken mixture for extra nutrition.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 15 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Creamy white chicken enchiladas deliver a comforting Mexican-inspired feast that blends tender shredded chicken, velvety cheese sauce, and warm tortillas. Diners will savor each cheesy, spice-infused bite of this classic southwestern dinner that satisfies hunger and delights taste buds.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
  • 8 flour tortillas (8-inch size)
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Sauce and Seasonings:

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Additional Ingredients:

  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 (4 ounces) can diced green chilies (optional)
  • Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
  • Sliced jalapenos (optional)
  • Diced tomatoes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken mixture by combining shredded chicken with a blend of cheeses, sour cream, and green chilies. Ensure the ingredients are thoroughly mixed for a consistent flavor profile.
  2. Create uniform filling portions and carefully wrap each tortilla, rolling tightly to prevent filling from spilling. Arrange the rolled enchiladas strategically in the prepared baking dish, positioning them seam-side down to maintain structural integrity.
  3. Craft the creamy white sauce by initiating a roux with melted butter and flour. Slowly incorporate chicken broth, whisking continuously to eliminate potential lumps and achieve a silky smooth consistency.
  4. Transform the base sauce into a luxurious coating by integrating sour cream, additional cheese, and a harmonious blend of spices. Stir until the sauce reaches a velvety texture that will enhance the enchiladas’ overall richness.
  5. Generously drench the rolled tortillas with the prepared white sauce, ensuring complete and even coverage across the entire baking dish.
  6. Distribute the remaining cheese over the top, creating a golden, melting layer that will provide a tantalizing visual and textural element.
  7. Slide the prepared dish into a preheated oven and bake until the cheese transforms into a bubbling, slightly golden crust and the enchiladas are heated thoroughly.
  8. Allow the enchiladas a brief resting period to settle and cool slightly. Optionally, embellish with fresh cilantro, diced jalapenos, or vibrant tomato garnishes to elevate the presentation and add a fresh contrast.

Notes

  • Enhance the dish’s flavor by using freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged varieties, which can be less creamy and flavorful.
  • Swap traditional tortillas with low-carb alternatives like cauliflower or almond flour tortillas for a gluten-free or keto-friendly version.
  • Customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of green chilies or adding diced jalapeños for extra spice.
  • Prep the chicken mixture ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours to develop deeper flavors and save time during meal preparation.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 455
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 720 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 13 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 37 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 27 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg
James Mitchell

James Mitchell

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Recipe Creation and Testing​, Fusion Cuisine​, Food Styling and Photography​, Culinary Education​

Education

Kendall College, Chicago, IL

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classic and modern cooking techniques, with a specialization in international cuisines.​

The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY

  • Program: Advanced Certificate in Gastronomy
  • Focus: In-depth studies of global food cultures, flavor profiling, and innovative recipe development.​

James Mitchell is the founder and fearless flavor explorer at Cooking Crusade. With a degree in Culinary Arts from Kendall College and advanced training in global gastronomy from The Culinary Institute of America, James has spent over a decade perfecting the art of recipe creation. 

His background includes fine dining, private cheffing, and food styling, but his true joy comes from turning big ideas into doable recipes for home cooks. Every dish he shares is a mix of creativity, culture, and a little kitchen magic, built to bring excitement back to everyday meals.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star