When it comes to comfort food that satisfies every craving, cheesy creamy white chicken enchiladas top the list. With a luscious, creamy filling and a cheesy golden topping, these enchiladas are the perfect blend of flavor, texture, and ease. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or prepping a quick weeknight meal, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy: Each bite is packed with creamy goodness, thanks to cream cheese and sour cream.
- Easy to make: With simple ingredients and quick steps, this recipe is ideal for cooks of all levels.
- Versatile: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prepping!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
1. Cooked Chicken
Shredded rotisserie chicken is a time-saver with incredible flavor. If you don’t have rotisserie chicken, cooked and shredded chicken breast or thighs work just as well. Feeling adventurous? Try turkey for a twist!
2. Cream Cheese
The softened cream cheese adds a velvety texture. For a healthier alternative, use Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese.
3. Sour Cream
Sour cream gives the filling a creamy tang. If you’re looking for a lighter option, plain unsweetened yogurt is a great substitute.
4. Monterey Jack Cheese
Known for its meltability, Monterey Jack is the ultimate choice for enchiladas. Swap it for cheddar, Colby Jack, or even pepper jack for added spice.
5. Green Enchilada Sauce
The green enchilada sauce ties everything together with its zesty flavor. Can’t find it? Opt for green salsa or a homemade sauce for a fresh touch.
6. Flour Tortillas
Soft flour tortillas are easy to roll and hold the filling perfectly. Corn tortillas can be used for a more traditional approach.
Pro Tips for Perfect Enchiladas
1. Preventing Tortilla Breakage
To keep your tortillas from cracking:
- Warm them briefly in a skillet or microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel.
- Avoid overfilling and roll them gently but securely.
2. Perfect Cheese Melt
For a golden, bubbly top, bake uncovered for the last few minutes. The edges should turn golden brown for maximum appeal.
Step-by-Step Recipe: Cheesy Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup green enchilada sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8-10 small flour tortillas
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Additional cheese for topping (optional)
Preparation Time
- Prep: 15 minutes
- Cook: 30-35 minutes
- Total: ~1 hour
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). - Prepare the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, sour cream, 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix until creamy and well combined. - Prepare the Baking Dish:
Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. Spread 1/2 cup of green enchilada sauce evenly on the bottom. - Fill the Tortillas:
Spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture into the center of each tortilla. Roll tightly and place seam-side down in the baking dish. - Top with Sauce and Cheese:
Pour the remaining green enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas. Sprinkle additional cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish. - Bake:
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. - Garnish and Serve:
Let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes, then sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Serve warm and enjoy!
Storage and Reheating Tips
1. Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
2. Freezing
Freeze unbaked enchiladas tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
3. Reheating
Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F until heated through. Add a splash of enchilada sauce for added moisture.
Variations to Try
1. Spicy Kick
Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for extra heat.
2. Vegetarian Version
Replace chicken with sautéed veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach.
3. Gluten-Free
Use gluten-free tortillas to make this dish gluten-friendly.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe and cuts down on prep time.
2. What’s the Best Substitute for Sour Cream?
Greek yogurt is a fantastic alternative to sour cream.
3. Can I Make This Ahead?
Absolutely. Assemble the enchiladas, cover them, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Conclusion
Cheesy creamy white chicken enchiladas are a delightful meal that combines rich flavors and creamy textures in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is simple, delicious, and endlessly satisfying. So roll up your sleeves, grab those tortillas, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate comfort food. Bon appétit!