Easy Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce Recipe

Name: Easy Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cloves fresh garlic; Flour tortillas; 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese; 1 cup white sauce (cream sauce); 1 can green chiles; 1 onion; Fresh cilantro (optional)

By Sophie Hart – Recipes and Home Inspiration

March 9, 2025

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The aroma of melted cheese mingling with tender chicken wrapped in warm tortillas is enough to make anyone weak at the knees. Imagine diving into a plate of chicken enchiladas with white sauce; each bite bursts with flavor and comfort that feels like a warm hug from your grandmother. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that wraps you in cozy nostalgia.

These delightful chicken enchiladas have been a staple in my kitchen since I first attempted them during a taco night gone wrong. Picture this: I was trying to impress my friends with homemade tacos but ended up creating these glorious enchiladas instead. They were an accidental masterpiece that changed our dinner game forever! Now, every gathering calls for these cheesy delights that are perfect for any occasion.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These delicious chicken enchiladas are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights
The flavor combination of tender chicken and creamy sauce is simply irresistible
Their vibrant presentation will make your dinner table pop and impress guests effortlessly
Plus, they’re versatile enough to customize based on your preferred ingredients and tastes

I still remember the first time I made these for my family; their eyes lit up like Christmas morning!

Recipe preparation

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 based on hunger levels.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for optimal flavor; fresh garlic makes everything better.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas work best for a soft texture that holds the filling perfectly.
Shredded Cheese: A blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar adds richness and gooeyness; don’t skimp here!
White Sauce (Cream Sauce): A homemade or store-bought cream sauce elevates the dish’s creaminess; choose your favorite!
Green Chiles: Canned green chiles offer a mild heat and wonderful flavor boost; they’re essential!
Onion: Sautéed onions add sweetness and depth; don’t skip this step!
Cilantro (optional): Fresh cilantro brightens the dish; sprinkle it on top if you’re feeling fancy.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare the Filling: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook them in a skillet over medium heat until they’re no longer pink inside—about 6-7 minutes per side.

Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, toss in diced onions and minced garlic after removing the chicken. Sauté until fragrant—about 2-3 minutes—until they become soft and translucent.

Mix it Up!: Chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Combine it in a bowl with sautéed onions, green chiles, half of the shredded cheese, and a splash of white sauce. Stir until everything is well-coated.

Assemble Your Enchiladas: Take a tortilla and spoon about 1/4 cup of filling along one edge. Roll it tightly while tucking in the sides as you go. Place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.

Add the Sauce & Cheese Topping: Pour remaining white sauce over the assembled enchiladas ensuring they’re fully covered—this keeps them moist! Sprinkle remaining cheese generously on top because more cheese is always better!

Bake to Perfection: Slide the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top—a tantalizing sight indeed!

Enjoy these delightful chicken enchiladas with white sauce straight out of the oven! Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro if you’ve opted for it—your guests will think you’re a culinary genius!

You Must Know

Chicken enchiladas with white sauce are not just delicious; they offer a creamy comfort that warms the soul
The combination of tender chicken, savory sauce, and melted cheese creates a dish that delights everyone at the table
Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic to release their flavors before adding cooked chicken and spices. Roll the mixture in tortillas and layer with white sauce for even cooking.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Experiment with spice levels by adding jalapeños or using smoked chicken for a unique twist. Top with fresh cilantro or avocado to enhance freshness!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring the tortillas remain soft.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use rotisserie chicken to save time while maintaining flavor
Make sure your tortillas are warm to prevent tearing while rolling them up
Don’t skimp on the cheese; it adds essential creaminess!

Sharing my first attempt at making chicken enchiladas was hilarious—my family couldn’t stop laughing as I tried to roll them without ripping the tortillas!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Yes, corn tortillas are great for a gluten-free option and add delightful texture.

What can I substitute for white sauce?

You can use sour cream mixed with cream of chicken soup as an alternative.

How do I make the enchiladas spicier?

Add diced green chilies or sprinkle cayenne pepper into your chicken mixture for heat.

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