Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce! There’s just something about those warm, cheesy tortillas rolling together with savory chicken that makes my heart sing. I remember the first time I made these, my kitchen filled with the most delicious aromas, and my family couldn’t wait to dig in. This dish is perfect for cozy nights or when you want to impress friends without spending all day in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this creamy, dreamy recipe, you’ll be hooked just like I am!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (I love using rotisserie chicken for quick prep!)
- 8 flour tortillas (soft and pliable are best!)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (I usually go for a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for extra flavor)
- 1 cup sour cream (for that creamy goodness)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (this adds a rich, savory base)
- 1/2 cup milk (to thin out the sauce a bit)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (because garlic makes everything better!)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (for that savory depth)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to your taste, of course)
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper (freshly ground gives the best flavor)
How to Prepare Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce
Now, let’s dive into making these scrumptious Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce! I promise it’s easier than it sounds. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to a delightful meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps ensure everything bakes evenly and gets that nice, bubbly finish!
- In a large bowl, combine your shredded chicken, 1 cup of the shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix it all up until everything is well coated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and milk until smooth. This will be your creamy sauce that brings everything together!
- Now, take a generous scoop of the chicken mixture and spoon it into the center of each tortilla. Roll them up tightly, making sure the filling stays inside.
- Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down in a baking dish. You can fit them snugly together, which helps keep them from opening up.
- Pour the creamy sauce over the rolled tortillas, making sure to cover them evenly. You want each bite to be packed with flavor!
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Can you smell it already? It’s going to be so cheesy and delicious!
- Finally, pop the dish in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until everything is bubbly and golden on top. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen is filled with that mouthwatering aroma!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk about what’s in these delicious Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce! Now, keep in mind that these values are estimates based on standard ingredient brands, so they might vary a little depending on what you use. But here’s the breakdown for one enchilada:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 20g
This hearty meal is not just satisfying but also packs a punch in the protein department, making it perfect for a filling dinner. Enjoy every cheesy, creamy bite with peace of mind—yum!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
- Loaded with flavor, the creamy white sauce pairs perfectly with the savory chicken.
- Customizable! You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste.
- Family-friendly and kid-approved—everyone will be asking for more!
- Great for meal prep; these enchiladas reheat beautifully, so leftovers are a dream!
- Comfort food at its finest, bringing warmth and joy to your dinner table.
- Gluten-free option available, so everyone can enjoy this delicious dish!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re ready to whip up these Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce, here are some of my favorite tips to ensure they turn out absolutely perfect every time!
- Don’t skimp on the cheese: Seriously, the more cheese, the better! It adds that gooey, melty goodness that makes every bite irresistible.
- Warm your tortillas: Before you fill them, pop your tortillas in the microwave for about 15–20 seconds. This makes them more pliable and less likely to crack when you roll them up.
- Customize your filling: Feel free to mix in some sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even black beans for added texture and flavor. The more, the merrier!
- Use homemade sauce if you can: If you have a favorite white sauce recipe, go ahead and substitute it for the cream of chicken soup. It adds a personal touch and can be healthier too!
- Keep an eye on baking time: Ovens can vary, so start checking your enchiladas a few minutes before the 25-minute mark. You want them bubbly and slightly golden, but not overcooked!
- Let them rest: After baking, let your enchiladas sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This gives them time to firm up a bit, making them easier to serve and enjoy.
- Serve with toppings: Don’t forget to top your enchiladas with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or a sprinkle of lime juice for that extra zing!
Trust me, these little tips will elevate your Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce to a whole new level of deliciousness. Happy cooking!
Variations
One of the best things about Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce is how versatile they can be! You can easily mix things up to keep your meals exciting and fresh. Here are some tasty variations that I absolutely love:
- Cheese Swap: Try using different types of cheese! Pepper Jack adds a nice kick, while a blend of mozzarella and provolone gives a gooey, stretchy texture.
- Veggie-Loaded: Sneak in some sautéed spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers into the chicken filling for a boost of nutrients and color. It’s a great way to get your veggies in!
- Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the chicken mixture for a spicy twist. Trust me, it’ll take your enchiladas to a whole new level!
- Beans & Rice: Mix in black beans or pinto beans with the chicken for extra protein and fiber. You can also use leftover rice to stretch the filling further and make it even heartier.
- Herb Infusion: Toss in some fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the filling for a burst of freshness. A sprinkle of lime juice can brighten the flavors beautifully!
- Different Sauces: If you’re feeling adventurous, swap out the white sauce for a red enchilada sauce or even a green salsa verde. Each sauce brings its own unique flavor profile!
- Protein Variation: Don’t limit yourself to just chicken! Shredded beef, turkey, or even a mix of seafood can work wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed.
So, get creative and don’t be afraid to experiment! These variations will keep your Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce exciting and delicious, no matter how many times you make them. Enjoy the journey of flavor exploration!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce ready to go, let’s talk about the perfect accompaniments to make your meal truly memorable! These enchiladas are super filling on their own, but pairing them with the right sides can elevate your dinner experience to a whole new level.
- Mexican Rice: A classic choice! Fluffy, flavorful Mexican rice complements the creamy enchiladas beautifully. Just imagine the mix of flavors and textures on your plate—yum!
- Refried Beans: Creamy and hearty, refried beans add that delicious, comforting touch. You can serve them on the side or even spread a layer on your plate for an extra treat!
- Guacamole: Fresh, creamy guacamole is the perfect cool contrast to the warm enchiladas. Plus, who can resist that avocado goodness? It’s a must-have!
- Salsa: Whether you prefer it chunky or smooth, a vibrant salsa adds a burst of flavor. Opt for a fresh pico de gallo or a spicy salsa verde to brighten up the dish.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: This sweet and tangy corn salad is a delightful addition! The crunchiness and flavor will make your meal feel like a fiesta.
- Chips and Salsa: Start your meal off right with some crispy tortilla chips and a zesty salsa. It’s a fun, casual way to enjoy the flavors of Mexico before diving into the enchiladas!
- Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the enchiladas. Toss in some cherry tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro for extra flair!
So go ahead and mix and match these sides to create a delicious spread that’ll impress your family and friends. Trust me, they’ll be raving about your Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce and all the fantastic flavors on the table!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made a batch of those mouthwatering Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce and now you’ve got some leftovers? No worries, I’ve got you covered with the best ways to store and reheat them so they stay delicious!
First off, if you have any leftovers, let them cool completely before storing. This helps prevent that dreaded sogginess! For storage, just pop them into an airtight container. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days, which is perfect for those busy weeknights when you just want to heat and eat.
If you want to keep them for a longer stretch, you can freeze your enchiladas! Just wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then toss them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last up to 2 months in the freezer. Easy peasy!
Now, when it’s time to reheat, there are a couple of methods you can use. For the best results, I recommend reheating in the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the enchiladas in a baking dish and cover them with foil to keep that creamy goodness intact.
- Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re heated through and bubbly. If you like a little extra browning on top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes.
If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat them in the microwave:
- Place the enchiladas on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them moist.
- Heat in 1-minute intervals, checking until they’re warmed through. Just be careful not to overcook them, or they might dry out!
So there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, your Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce will taste just as good the next day as they did fresh out of the oven. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!
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Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce for Cozy Comfort Cooking
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A savory dish featuring chicken rolled in tortillas and topped with a creamy white sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine chicken, 1 cup cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, mix sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and milk.
- Spoon chicken mixture into each tortilla and roll them up.
- Place rolled tortillas in a baking dish.
- Pour the cream mixture over the tortillas.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Adjust spices according to your taste.
- Serve with rice or beans for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 enchilada
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce, Enchiladas, Chicken Recipe