Name: Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked shredded chicken; 1 cup sour cream; 8 small corn or flour tortillas; 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 4 tbsp butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 cloves fresh garlic (minced); Salt and pepper to taste

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Indulging in a plate of chicken enchiladas with white sauce is like wrapping yourself in a warm, cheesy blanket after a long day. The creamy, dreamy sauce envelops tender chicken and soft tortillas, creating a flavor fiesta that dances on your taste buds. You can practically hear the mariachi band playing as you savor each bite, topped with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a side of guacamole that cries out for attention.

Picture this: it’s Friday night, the perfect excuse to gather your friends for a cozy dinner. As the aroma of chicken enchiladas wafts through the house, you can almost see them salivating at the door, ready to dive into this dish that promises comfort, joy, and maybe even a food coma. Trust me; this recipe holds memories waiting to be made!

Why You'll Love This chicken enchiladas with white sauce

This incredible chicken enchiladas with white sauce transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious chicken enchiladas with white sauce:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor.
Tortillas: Corn or flour tortillas are both great options; choose based on your preference.
Sour Cream: A must-have for that creamy texture in our white sauce.
Shredded Cheese: Monterey Jack or cheddar adds that melty goodness we all crave.

For the Sauce:

Butter: Essential for sautéing garlic and forming the base of our luscious white sauce.
Flour: Helps thicken our sauce to achieve that perfect creamy consistency.
Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control the saltiness in your dish.
Salt & Pepper: Season to taste; they are your trusty sidekicks in enhancing flavors.

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

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious chicken enchiladas with white sauce:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray so those enchiladas don’t stick like an uninvited guest.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a medium pot, add your boneless skinless chicken breasts. Cover them with water and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes until fully cooked. Remove from heat and shred using two forks (or your hands if you’re feeling daring).

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for about one minute until fragrant—this will make your kitchen smell like heaven!

Step 4: Make the White Sauce

Sprinkle flour over the sautéed garlic and stir well to combine. Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth. Allow it to simmer until thickened—about five minutes—then stir in sour cream and season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Assemble Enchiladas

In each tortilla, place shredded chicken and top with a little cheese. Roll them tightly and place them seam-side down in your prepared baking dish. Pour that glorious white sauce over the top and sprinkle more cheese because no one ever complained about extra cheese!

Step 6: Bake and Serve

Bake uncovered in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly! Transfer to plates and drizzle with more sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Now take a moment to admire your creation! These chicken enchiladas with white sauce are not just food; they’re an experience. Grab some forks (and maybe some napkins) because you’re about to delight yourself—and anyone lucky enough to join you—in an incredible meal!

You Must Know About chicken enchiladas with white sauce

This showstopping chicken enchiladas with white sauce delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

First, sear the chicken to lock in those juicy flavors. While it sizzles away, prepare your tortillas and chop your toppings. Then, whip up that creamy white sauce which ties everything together like a warm hug on a cold day.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to swap out the chicken for shredded beef or even beans for a vegetarian twist. Experiment with spices; try smoked paprika for a smoky kick or add jalapeños for heat. Customize to suit your palate and impress your guests!

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover chicken enchiladas with white sauce, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring that delightful creaminess is preserved.

Chef's Helpful Tips for chicken enchiladas with white sauce

This professional-quality chicken enchiladas with white sauce relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Cooking these chicken enchiladas with white sauce always reminds me of my first dinner party where my friends devoured every bite. Their compliments still echo in my ears like a sweet serenade!

FAQs

What is chicken enchiladas with white sauce?

Chicken enchiladas with white sauce are a delicious twist on the traditional Mexican dish. They typically consist of corn tortillas filled with shredded chicken, cheese, and various spices, all smothered in a creamy white sauce made from ingredients like sour cream, cheese, and green chilies. This dish is both comforting and flavorful, making it a favorite for family dinners or gatherings. The combination of tender chicken and rich sauce creates a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress anyone who tries it.

How do I make the white sauce for chicken enchiladas?

To make the white sauce for chicken enchiladas, start by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and cook for about one minute to create a roux. Gradually whisk in milk or chicken broth until the mixture thickens. Stir in sour cream, shredded cheese, and green chilies for added flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This creamy sauce will enhance your chicken enchiladas beautifully and provide a luscious coating that everyone will love.

Can I use leftover chicken for my enchiladas?

Absolutely! Using leftover chicken is an excellent way to save time while preparing chicken enchiladas with white sauce. Shredded rotisserie chicken works particularly well, as it’s already cooked and seasoned. Just mix the leftover chicken with your favorite spices before filling the tortillas. This method makes your preparation quicker without compromising flavor, allowing you to enjoy this delightful dish even on busy weeknights.

What sides pair well with chicken enchiladas with white sauce?

When serving chicken enchiladas with white sauce, consider pairing them with sides that complement their rich flavors. Mexican rice or cilantro-lime rice provides a refreshing contrast. A crisp garden salad or avocado salad adds freshness to the meal. Additionally, refried beans or black beans can enhance protein content and make the meal more filling. These sides bring balance to your plate while keeping the focus on those delicious enchiladas.

Conclusion

In conclusion, chicken enchiladas with white sauce offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re using leftover rotisserie chicken or making your own filling from scratch, this dish is versatile and satisfying. The creamy white sauce elevates the entire meal while pairing perfectly with simple sides like rice and salad. Try making these delicious enchiladas for your next dinner gathering; they are sure to impress both family and friends!