The first time I tasted chicken enchiladas with white sauce, it was like a flavor explosion in my mouth. The creamy texture and zesty kick danced on my taste buds while the aroma filled the air like a cozy hug from Grandma. Let’s be honest; if you haven’t had these beauties yet, you’re missing out on life’s little pleasures.
I remember hosting a taco night party where I decided to surprise everyone with these enchiladas instead. They were devoured faster than my friend could say “More cheese, please!” The cheers and happy faces around the table made me feel like a culinary rockstar.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These chicken enchiladas with white sauce are incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
- The flavor profile is rich and creamy, offering a delightful twist on traditional Mexican cuisine
- Visually appealing when plated, they are sure to impress friends and family alike
- This dish is versatile enough to customize for vegetarian or gluten-free diets easily
I can still hear the delighted shouts of my friends as they took their first bites of these delicious chicken enchiladas with white sauce.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts for a hearty filling; adjust according to your crowd size.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for the best flavor—freshness is key here!
- Flour Tortillas: Opt for larger tortillas; they hold more filling and make wrapping easier.
- Shredded Cheese: A combination of Monterey Jack and cheddar brings both creaminess and sharpness.
- Sour Cream: Adds tanginess that balances perfectly with the richness of the white sauce.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: This is the secret ingredient for creating that irresistible creamy texture in your sauce.
- Green Chiles: Canned diced green chiles add just the right amount of spice—perfect for heat lovers!
- Chicken Broth: A splash helps thin out your white sauce while adding extra flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preparing the Chicken Filling: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a skillet over medium heat, cook your seasoned chicken until golden brown. This should take about 6-7 minutes per side; ensure it’s fully cooked through!
Making the White Sauce: In a bowl, mix together cream of chicken soup, sour cream, diced green chiles, and some chicken broth until smooth. The aroma will be heavenly—like a warm hug on a chilly day.
Assembling the Enchiladas: Lay out each tortilla flat and sprinkle some shredded cheese down the center along with your cooked chicken mixture. Roll them up tightly like little burritos stuffed with love.
Baking to Perfection: Place rolled enchiladas seam-side down into a greased baking dish. Pour your luscious white sauce generously over them before sprinkling additional cheese on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
The Grand Finale!: Remove from oven and let cool for just a minute (if you can resist). Garnish with fresh cilantro or extra green chiles if you’re feeling adventurous. Dive in while they’re hot!
These steps will guide you smoothly through preparing this tasty treat! Your kitchen will smell divine as you whip up this favorite family recipe.
Now that you have all the details needed to create mouthwatering chicken enchiladas with white sauce let this dish become a staple at your dinner table! Who knows? You might even find yourself on culinary adventures experimenting further!
You Must Know
- Chicken enchiladas with white sauce are a delightful twist on the classic
- The creamy sauce adds richness, while spices elevate the flavors
- They are perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, and leftovers taste even better the next day!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the chicken first, then prepare the sauce while the tortillas warm up. This sequence keeps everything hot and ready to assemble quickly.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding black beans or corn for extra texture and nutrition. You can also swap chicken for shredded beef or veggies for a delightful twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep
- Pre-shredded cheese melts beautifully and saves time
- Always let the enchiladas rest before serving to allow flavors to meld perfectly
Sharing my first experience making chicken enchiladas with white sauce still makes me chuckle—my kitchen looked like a flour bomb went off, but everyone loved them!
FAQ
What is the best type of chicken to use for enchiladas?
Rotisserie chicken is quick and flavorful; you can also use grilled or poached chicken.
Can I make chicken enchiladas with white sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them a day ahead and bake just before serving.
What are some toppings for chicken enchiladas with white sauce?
Try sour cream, fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or jalapeños for extra flavor!
Easy Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in creamy chicken enchiladas with white sauce, a delightful twist on a classic Mexican dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this easy recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 6 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheese (Monterey Jack and cheddar)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 can diced green chiles
- ½ cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook seasoned chicken in a skillet over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
- In a bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, sour cream, green chiles, and chicken broth until smooth to create the white sauce.
- Lay each tortilla flat; add shredded cheese and cooked chicken mixture down the center. Roll tightly.
- Place enchiladas seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Pour white sauce over them, sprinkle with extra cheese, and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 enchiladas (250g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: - For added texture, consider adding black beans or corn to the filling. - Swap out chicken for shredded beef or sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option.