Looking for a delicious twist on traditional enchiladas? Look no further than these White Chicken Enchiladas! Packed with tender shredded chicken, creamy filling, and a mouthwatering white enchilada sauce, this recipe is a surefire way to elevate your dinner game. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a weekend gathering, these enchiladas are bound to impress. Follow along for a step-by-step guide to creating this comforting dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 4 ounces diced green chilies
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 cups cooked chicken breasts, shredded
- 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 4 ounces diced green chilies
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 10 (8-inch) tortillas
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Directions:
- Making the White Enchilada Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour to create a roux.
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Add the diced green chilies, sour cream, and shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Whisk until the sauce starts to thicken, then remove from heat.
- Preparing the Filling:
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, diced green chilies, cumin, and shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Assembling the Enchiladas:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Lay a tortilla on a flat surface, then spoon some of the chicken filling onto the tortilla and roll it up. Place the rolled tortilla seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Pour the white enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas in the baking dish, then sprinkle the remaining shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving, if desired.
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these White Chicken Enchiladas hot straight from the oven for maximum flavor and enjoyment.
- Pair them with your favorite sides such as Spanish rice, refried beans, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
- Add a dollop of sour cream, salsa, or guacamole on top for an extra burst of flavor.
- Storage Instructions:
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, place individual enchiladas on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
- Alternatively, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated to your liking.
- Freezing Tips:
- You can also freeze these enchiladas for future meals. Wrap each enchilada individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- When ready to eat, thaw the enchiladas overnight in the refrigerator before reheating according to the instructions above.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
- Yes, using store-bought rotisserie chicken is a convenient option. Simply shred the chicken and follow the recipe as directed.
- Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just remember to add the sauce and cheese right before baking.
- Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
- Absolutely! Corn tortillas can be used for a gluten-free option or for a more authentic flavor. Just be sure to warm them up slightly before rolling to prevent cracking.
- Can I freeze these enchiladas?
- Yes, these enchiladas freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- How do I prevent the tortillas from getting soggy?
- To prevent soggy enchiladas, lightly toast the tortillas in a dry skillet before filling and rolling. This helps to remove excess moisture and keeps the tortillas from becoming too soft during baking.
- Can I customize the filling to my liking?
- Absolutely! Feel free to customize the filling by adding ingredients such as black beans, corn, bell peppers, or different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.
- What can I serve with these enchiladas?
- These enchiladas pair well with a variety of sides, including Spanish rice, refried beans, salad, or grilled vegetables. You can also serve them with toppings like salsa, guacamole, and sour cream.
- Can I make a dairy-free version of this recipe?
- Yes, you can substitute dairy-free alternatives such as vegan cheese, coconut milk, or cashew cream for the dairy ingredients to make a dairy-free version of these enchiladas.
- How do I reheat leftover enchiladas?
- Leftover enchiladas can be reheated in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Cover them with a damp paper towel when reheating in the microwave to prevent them from drying out.
- Can I make these enchiladas spicy?
- Absolutely! You can add diced jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or a dash of hot sauce to the filling to add some heat. You can also use pepper jack cheese or a spicier enchilada sauce for an extra kick. Adjust the spice level to your preference.