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Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas

Name: Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well); 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 small onion, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp ground cumin; ½ tsp chili powder; ½ tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup sour cream; 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies; ½ tsp garlic powder; ¼ tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 12 small flour tortillas (or corn tortillas, if preferred); 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (for topping); Chopped fresh cilantro; Sliced green onions; Diced tomatoes; Sliced jalapeños; Salsa, guacamole, or sour cream

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm plate of creamy white chicken enchiladas. Perhaps it’s the rich, velvety sauce enveloping tender chicken, or the delightful crunch of tortillas baked to perfection. Every bite of this dish evokes feelings of home and warmth, making it a fantastic choice for family feasts or a cozy weeknight dinner. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or diving into the world of enchiladas for the first time, this recipe beckons with promise and satisfies cravings like no other.

Why Make This Recipe

These creamy enchiladas strike a perfect balance between rich flavors and wholesome ingredients.
With shredded rotisserie chicken and a touch of spices, they become a quick yet gourmet meal.
You can customize garnishes to elevate the dish, making it as fancy or as casual as you need.

Making White Chicken Enchiladas at Home

Crafting these creamy white chicken enchiladas is an approachable endeavor. With a step-by-step guide to help you navigate each portion of the process, you’ll find that concocting this dish at home doesn’t require culinary wizardry, just a bit of love and a few key ingredients. Let’s get started with the process, ensuring that each step is clear and inviting.

Ingredients

Before we dive into the cooking, let’s gather our essential components. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a tray of delicious creamy white chicken enchiladas:

3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp chili powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup sour cream
1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
12 small flour tortillas (or corn tortillas, if preferred)
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (for topping)
Chopped fresh cilantro
Sliced green onions
Diced tomatoes
Sliced jalapeños
Salsa, guacamole, or sour cream

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas

1. Prepare the Chicken Filling

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F, allowing it to warm up for the scrumptious enchiladas. In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, half of the Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses, diced onion, minced garlic, and spices: cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix it well until all the ingredients are nicely incorporated, and set it aside.

2. Make the White Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour, stirring to create a smooth paste. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring that there are no lumps. Keep cooking the sauce for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens. Then, reduce the heat and stir in the sour cream, diced green chilies, garlic powder, onion powder, and additional salt and pepper to taste.

3. Assemble the Enchiladas

With the chicken filling and the creamy sauce ready, it’s time to start assembling. Take a tortilla, spoon a generous amount of the chicken filling into the center, and roll it up tightly. Place the filled tortilla seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Repeat this process with all the tortillas, ensuring they fit snugly in the dish.

4. Pour the Sauce Over the Enchiladas

Once all the tortillas are placed in the baking dish, pour the creamy white sauce generously over the top of the enchiladas. Sprinkle the reserved cheese (the remaining Monterey Jack and cheddar) on top, allowing it to melt beautifully as it bakes.

5. Bake the Enchiladas

Pop the baking dish into the preheated oven, allowing the enchiladas to bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are bubbling and golden on top. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone clamoring for a taste.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. For that final touch, garnish the enchiladas with fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, and, if desired, some sliced jalapeños. Serve with salsa, guacamole, or a dollop of sour cream for a delightful finishing touch.

Best Way to Store Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas

Now that you’ve prepared a delicious batch of creamy white chicken enchiladas, proper storage techniques ensure you can enjoy them even longer.

Refrigerate: Store the enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days at 40°F.
Freeze: They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
Reheat: When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. If frozen, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How to Serve Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas

These creamy enchiladas are divine on their own, but dressing them up with accompaniments transforms the experience. Here are some ideas:

Garnishes: Sprinkle extra cilantro or green onions on top for brightness.
Sauces: Serve alongside salsa or guacamole for added flavor and variety.
Side Dishes: Pair with a fresh side salad or some refried beans for a more filling meal.
Drinks: A chilled glass of agua fresca or a light beer complements the richness of the dish beautifully.

Tips to Make Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas

Choose good quality rotisserie chicken for an effortless and flavorful filling.
Don’t skip the garnishes; they add freshness and enhance flavor.
If preferred, adjust the seasoning to your taste. Love a bit of spice? Add some cayenne or hotter chili powder.
Make enough for leftovers, as these enchiladas reheat wonderfully.

Variations or Substitutions

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the shredded chicken with black beans, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted vegetables for a veggie-packed version.
Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling and the sauce to kick up the heat. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of Monterey Jack for an extra zing.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the enchiladas a day ahead, cover them tightly, and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

What can I use instead of chicken?
You can use shredded turkey, or even go meatless with grilled vegetables or pinto beans.

Q: How do I make it spicier?
A: To amp up the heat, consider using spicy green chilies, adding fresh jalapeños to the filling, or mixing in some cayenne pepper to the sauce.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and add a richer flavor due to their higher fat content.

Nutritional Info

While enjoying creamy white chicken enchiladas, you might want to consider their nutritional benefits:

Protein: The chicken provides a solid protein source.
Dairy: Cheese and sour cream offer calcium.
Fiber: If you opt for corn tortillas, they will add beneficial fiber to the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overfilling the tortillas: This can lead to messy enchiladas and a longer baking time. Make sure to measure just enough chicken filling per tortilla.
Not letting the sauce cool before pouring: If you pour hot sauce over the enchiladas immediately after making it, it can make the tortillas soggy. Allow the sauce to cool slightly and thicken before using.
Skipping the garnishes: They may seem optional, but fresh herbs and toppings can elevate the overall experience, adding flavor and color.

Conclusion

Creamy white chicken enchiladas are more than just a meal; they embody comfort, connection, and culinary creativity. Whether enjoyed on a special occasion or a regular weeknight, they bring warmth to the table that everyone can savor. With luscious sauces, seasoned chicken, and the options to play around with flavors and ingredients, this recipe is bound to impress. So whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, this dish is sure to satisfy all cravings! Dive into your culinary adventure and bring this delightful comfort food to life in your own kitchen. Enjoy every bite!