Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas

Why You’ll Love Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

These enchiladas are incredibly easy to prepare and come together in under an hour. They use simple pantry staples and leftover or rotisserie chicken, making them convenient and budget-friendly. The creamy white sauce is smooth and flavorful without being overly spicy, so it’s great for both kids and adults. Plus, this recipe is versatile—you can easily adjust the filling, spice level, or cheese to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

flour tortillas
cooked shredded chicken
Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
salt
black pepper
Adobo seasoning
butter
all-purpose flour
chicken broth
sour cream
diced green chiles
additional shredded cheese for topping

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese, salt, pepper, and Adobo seasoning. Stir until evenly mixed.

3. Spoon the chicken mixture evenly into each tortilla. Roll them up tightly and place them seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.

4. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a smooth roux.

5. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.

6. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the sour cream and diced green chiles. Mix until fully combined and creamy.

7. Pour the sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas in the baking dish.

8. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top.

9. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the enchiladas are heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a lightly golden top, broil for 1 to 2 minutes at the end of baking.

Servings and timing

Servings: 5 to 6 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

You can substitute corn tortillas for flour tortillas; just warm them first to prevent cracking. For a spicier version, use Pepper Jack cheese or add chopped jalapeños to the filling. Swap the Monterey Jack with cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt can replace the sour cream. You can also add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or spinach to the chicken mixture for extra texture and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15 to 20 minutes. Individual portions can be reheated in the microwave in 1-minute intervals until hot.

To freeze, assemble the enchiladas without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time. Simply shred it and mix with the seasonings and cheese.

Are these enchiladas spicy?

No, they are generally mild. The green chiles add flavor but not much heat. You can increase spice if desired.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas several hours in advance and refrigerate them until ready to bake.

Can I freeze baked enchiladas?

Yes, allow them to cool completely before wrapping tightly and freezing. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

What can I serve with creamy chicken enchiladas?

They pair well with rice, refried beans, black beans, corn, or a simple green salad.

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Yes, just warm them before filling to make them pliable and prevent tearing.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Do not let the sauce boil after adding the sour cream. Keep the heat low and stir gently.

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Absolutely. Sautéed onions, peppers, mushrooms, or spinach are great additions.

What cheese works best for this recipe?

Monterey Jack melts smoothly, but cheddar, Colby Jack, or a Mexican blend also work well.

How do I know when the enchiladas are done?

They are ready when the cheese is melted, the sauce is bubbling around the edges, and the center is heated through.

Conclusion

Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas are a simple yet satisfying meal that delivers comfort in every bite. With tender chicken, melted cheese, and a rich homemade sauce, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Easy to customize and even easier to love, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.