Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in a warm hug, these Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce are just the ticket! This recipe has been a family favorite for years, and I can’t wait to share it with you. Imagine soft tortillas filled with tender chicken, all smothered in a creamy, dreamy sauce. It’s comfort food at its finest—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings.

What I love most about this dish is how easy it is to whip up. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, these enchiladas bring everyone together around the table. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy a plateful of cheesy goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids (and adults) love these creamy enchiladas, making them perfect for any meal.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the enchiladas ahead of time and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Deliciously Versatile: Feel free to customize the fillings or toppings according to your taste!
• Comfort Food Classic: Each bite is rich and satisfying, bringing joy to any dining experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to create a delicious meal. Gather everything you need, and let’s get cooking!

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 (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce is how flexible this recipe can be! Here are some fun ideas for variations:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or even black beans for a vegetarian option.
• Change up the cheese: Monterrey Jack is great, but feel free to use pepper jack for a spicy kick!
• Add some veggies: Toss in some sautéed bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Try different sauces: Instead of sour cream sauce, why not experiment with a red enchilada sauce?

How to Make Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your enchiladas bake evenly and become bubbly and golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large 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 bring your enchiladas to life!

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. This step helps thicken your sauce. Slowly whisk in chicken broth and bring it to a simmer until thickened. Once it’s smooth, stir in sour cream and remaining green chiles. This creamy sauce is what makes your enchiladas so special!

Step 4: Assemble the Enchiladas

Spoon the chicken mixture into each tortilla, rolling them up tightly. Place them seam-side down in a greased baking dish. This keeps everything together while baking.

Step 5: Pour on the Sauce

Pour your luscious sour cream sauce over the rolled enchiladas, making sure to spread it evenly. Top everything off with the remaining shredded cheese—it’s all about that cheesy goodness!

Step 6: Bake

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist digging in right away!

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once done baking, let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with diced tomatoes and chopped fresh cilantro if desired; they add freshness that complements every bite perfectly.

Now gather your loved ones and enjoy this delightful dish together!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce

Making these enchiladas can be a delightful experience, and a few insider tips can take your dish to the next level!

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick and easy preparation, using rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also adds great flavor without the fuss of cooking raw chicken.

• Warm Your Tortillas: Gently warming your tortillas before filling them makes them more pliable and less likely to tear, ensuring that your enchiladas hold together beautifully.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re aiming for a milder dish, consider using mild green chiles or omitting them altogether. You can always add heat later with hot sauce if desired.

• Make Ahead: These enchiladas are perfect for meal prep! Assemble them a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven straight from the fridge – no need to thaw!

• Experiment with Cheese: While Monterey Jack is traditional, feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for added flavor and creaminess.

How to Serve Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce

Serving these enchiladas is all about presentation and pairing! With their creamy texture and vibrant toppings, they can be an eye-catching centerpiece on your dinner table.

Garnishes

• Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and color, making your dish visually appealing.
• Sour Cream Drizzle: A light drizzle of additional sour cream on top enhances creaminess while adding a touch of elegance.
• Sliced Avocado: Fresh avocado slices not only elevate the dish but also bring a creamy texture that complements the enchiladas perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Rice: Fluffy Mexican rice seasoned with spices makes for a hearty side that absorbs the delicious sauce.
• Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide an excellent protein source and complement the flavors of the enchiladas wonderfully.
• Corn Salad: A fresh corn salad tossed with lime juice and cilantro adds brightness and crunch to your meal.
• Guacamole: Rich and creamy guacamole pairs perfectly with enchiladas and offers an extra layer of flavor that’s hard to resist.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce will undoubtedly impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce are perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a delicious homemade dinner any night of the week. You can prepare them in advance, store leftovers, or even freeze portions for later use.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the enchiladas to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• To keep individual servings fresh, you can wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Freezing

• Prepare the enchiladas as directed but do not bake them.
• Instead, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• If reheating from the fridge, cover the enchiladas with foil and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• For frozen enchiladas, remove foil and reheat directly from the freezer for about 30-40 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce.

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce?

Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds wonderful flavor to your enchiladas.

What can I substitute for sour cream in Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce?

You can substitute plain Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream if you’re looking for a lighter option or need to avoid dairy.

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

To add more heat, consider using spicy diced green chiles or adding jalapeños into the chicken filling. You could also drizzle some hot sauce on top before serving!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce as much as I do! This recipe is special because it’s not only comforting and delicious but also incredibly versatile for family dinners or meal prep. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply treating yourself, these enchiladas will bring warmth to your table. Happy cooking!