Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that brings smiles to the dinner table, these Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce are just what you need. This recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these enchiladas are sure to please everyone.

The combination of tender chicken, gooey cheese, and creamy sauce creates a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug. Plus, they’re versatile enough to adapt to your tastes, making them perfect for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have dinner ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the cheesy goodness wrapped in soft tortillas.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare these enchiladas in advance and bake them when you’re ready.
• Delicious flavor: The sour cream sauce adds a rich and tangy twist that elevates this classic dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our wholesome ingredients! This recipe uses simple items that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need for these delightful Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce:

For the Enchiladas

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 8 flour tortillas
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Optional Toppings

• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily switch things up to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some variation ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or even black beans for a vegetarian option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some sautéed bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it up: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling for a kick of heat.
• Change the cheese: Try using pepper jack cheese for an added layer of flavor.

How to Make Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your enchiladas bake evenly and come out bubbly and golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with half of the shredded cheese and half of the diced green chiles. Mixing these ingredients together creates a flavorful filling that will make every bite delightful.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it’s lightly golden. This forms a roux, which thickens your sauce beautifully. Slowly whisk in chicken broth and bring it to a simmer until thickened.

Step 4: Add Sour Cream

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in sour cream along with the remaining green chiles until smooth. This creamy mixture is what makes your enchiladas so special!

Step 5: Assemble the Enchiladas

Spoon the chicken mixture into each tortilla, roll them up tightly, and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish. This step is important to keep all those delicious fillings inside.

Step 6: Pour on That Sauce

Pour the sour cream sauce over the enchiladas, spreading it evenly across all of them. Then top with the remaining shredded cheese for that gooey finish we love!

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Your kitchen will smell heavenly during this time!

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, garnish with optional diced tomatoes and cilantro if desired. Let them rest for about five minutes before serving – this helps everything settle just right!

Now you’re ready to dig into these amazing Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce

Creating the perfect chicken enchiladas is all about the details—here are some tips to make your dish truly shine!

• Use rotisserie chicken: For a quick and flavorful option, shredded rotisserie chicken saves time and adds delicious seasoning to your filling.
• Warm tortillas before filling: Softening the tortillas in a microwave or skillet prevents them from cracking when you roll them up, making for a neater presentation.
• Customize your sauce: Feel free to spice up the sour cream sauce by adding jalapeños or spices like cumin and paprika for an extra kick that elevates the flavor profile.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your enchiladas to sit for about 5 minutes after baking helps the flavors meld together and makes them easier to serve without falling apart.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the enchiladas and sauce ahead of time, refrigerate them, and bake when you’re ready for a hassle-free dinner that still tastes fresh!

How to Serve Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce

Serving your chicken enchiladas in an appealing way can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some ideas to help you present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors.
• Sliced avocado: Creamy avocado slices bring a lovely texture and healthy fats, enhancing both taste and presentation.

Side Dishes

• Mexican rice: Fluffy Mexican rice is a classic side that’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sour cream sauce on your plate.
• Refried beans: Creamy refried beans provide protein and fiber, making for a satisfying accompaniment that balances out the meal.
• Corn salad: A refreshing corn salad with lime dressing adds brightness and crunch, contrasting nicely with the creamy enchiladas.
• Guacamole: This crowd-pleaser not only tastes great but also adds an extra layer of richness that ties everything together beautifully.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce! With these pro tips, garnishes, and side dish ideas, you’ll create a delightful meal that everyone will love. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce are perfect for meal prep, making them a fantastic option for busy weeknights or gatherings. You can prepare them in advance and simply bake when you’re ready to enjoy a comforting meal.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the enchiladas to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They can be stored for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Assemble the enchiladas but do not bake them.
• Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place enchiladas in a baking dish and cover with foil.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, increase baking time by about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce that might help you out!

Can I use other types of cheese in my Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce?

Absolutely! While Monterey Jack cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with cheddar, pepper jack, or any cheese you prefer.

How can I make my Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce spicier?

You can add jalapeños or use spicy diced green chiles. For an extra kick, consider mixing in some hot sauce into the sour cream sauce before pouring it over the enchiladas.

Can I substitute the chicken in this recipe?

Yes! You can use shredded rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even black beans for a vegetarian option while still enjoying that creamy sour cream sauce.

Final Thoughts

These Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce are truly special—comforting, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying! I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do; it’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to try it out and share your experiences! Happy cooking!