Easy White Sauce Chicken Enchiladas You Must Try

Easy White Sauce Chicken Enchiladas

Why You Must Try This Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a homemade meal that feels both special and effortless, and these easy white sauce chicken enchiladas hit all the right notes. Forget the heavy red sauces; this recipe introduces a beautifully creamy, savory white sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken filling. It’s a fantastic alternative for those who prefer milder flavors or are looking to try something different from traditional enchilada recipes. This dish is designed for simplicity without sacrificing flavor, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend cooking. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.

A Comforting Meal Idea

When you crave a satisfying meal that wraps you in warmth, these chicken enchiladas are the answer. The combination of seasoned chicken, soft tortillas, a rich white sauce, and melted cheese creates a truly comforting experience. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, eager for a second helping. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you simply need a heartwarming dinner, this recipe delivers. It’s a complete meal that pairs wonderfully with a simple salad, making it a balanced and delightful option for any family. Explore more comforting dinners on our site.

Gather Ingredients for Easy Enchiladas

What You Will Need

Creating these delightful chicken enchiladas begins with gathering a few key ingredients. You’ll need cooked chicken, flour tortillas, and plenty of shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend works perfectly). For the luscious white sauce, prepare butter, all-purpose flour, milk, sour cream, and a can of diced green chilies. A good quality chicken broth will enhance the flavor of your sauce, and a selection of basic spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin will round out your seasoning. Having everything measured and ready before you start will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable, especially when working with a rich white sauce from scratch. Understanding the basics of an enchilada helps appreciate the dish’s versatility.

Simple Pantry Staples

One of the best aspects of this easy recipe is that it relies heavily on simple pantry staples you likely already have on hand. Cooked chicken can be leftover rotisserie chicken, boiled chicken breasts, or even canned chicken for ultimate convenience. Flour tortillas are readily available in any grocery store, and most homes keep butter, flour, milk, and basic spices stocked. The addition of sour cream and diced green chilies adds a distinctive creaminess and a mild, zesty kick that truly defines the flavor profile of these homemade chicken enchiladas. This makes it an incredibly accessible meal, proving that you don’t need exotic ingredients to create something truly delicious and comforting for your family dinner.

Preparing the Chicken Filling

Shredding and Mixing Tips

The heart of any good enchilada is its filling, and for this recipe, a flavorful chicken mixture is paramount. Start with about 3-4 cups of cooked chicken. If you’re cooking chicken specifically for this dish, poaching or baking chicken breasts until tender is ideal. Once cooked, allow it to cool slightly before shredding. You can easily shred chicken using two forks, your hands, or even a stand mixer with the paddle attachment for quick results. Aim for bite-sized shreds that will distribute evenly within your tortillas. Once shredded, transfer the chicken to a large bowl.

Next, it’s time to season and combine your filling ingredients. Add a generous portion of shredded cheese, a few tablespoons of the prepared white sauce (this helps bind the mixture and adds moisture), and your chosen spices—garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper work wonderfully. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of chili powder or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little heat. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure every piece of chicken is coated and flavored. This seasoned chicken filling forms the delicious core of your creamy chicken enchiladas, ensuring every bite is rich and satisfying. If you’re looking for another tasty chicken dish, our easy honey garlic chicken is a must-try.

How to Roll Your Tortillas

Securely Fill and Roll

Properly rolling your tortillas is crucial for neat and appealing enchiladas. First, gently warm your tortillas. This makes them more pliable and less prone to tearing. You can do this by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 30 seconds, or by quickly heating them in a dry skillet for a few seconds per side. Once warm, lay a tortilla flat on your work surface.

Spoon about ¼ to ⅓ cup of the prepared chicken filling down the center of each tortilla. Avoid overfilling, as this can make rolling difficult and lead to spillage. Now, bring one side of the tortilla over the filling, tucking it in snugly, then continue to roll tightly until you reach the other side. Place each rolled enchilada seam-side down in your prepared baking dish. This technique ensures a secure roll, keeping all that delicious filling inside as they bake to perfection. Repeat until all your filling is used, arranging the enchiladas in a single layer or stacking them carefully if your dish requires it.

Creating the Creamy White Sauce

Steps for a Smooth Sauce

The white sauce is what truly sets these chicken enchiladas apart, providing a rich, savory, and incredibly creamy counterpoint to the chicken filling. Starting with a roux is key to achieving a smooth, lump-free sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in an equal amount of all-purpose flour. Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it forms a pale, bubbly paste. This is your roux, the thickening agent for your sauce. The aroma will become slightly nutty.

Next, gradually whisk in the milk. Add it slowly, about ¼ cup at a time, whisking vigorously after each addition to prevent lumps. Continue to whisk as the sauce comes to a simmer and begins to thicken. It’s important to keep stirring to ensure an even consistency. Once thickened to your desired consistency – typically like a thin gravy – remove the pan from the heat. This technique is similar to making a classic béchamel sauce, forming the perfect base for our flavorful enchilada topping.

Flavoring the Enchilada Sauce

Add Sour Cream and Chilies

Once your basic white sauce is smooth and thickened, it’s time to infuse it with the incredible flavors that make these enchiladas so special. Return the saucepan to low heat, or simply stir these ingredients in while the sauce is still warm. Gently fold in the sour cream until it’s fully incorporated and the sauce is even creamier. The sour cream adds a delightful tang and an extra layer of richness, which is a hallmark of this creamy white sauce. Avoid boiling the sauce after adding sour cream, as it can curdle.

Next, stir in the canned diced green chilies. These chilies provide a mild, earthy heat and a subtle smoky flavor that elevates the sauce without making it overly spicy. If you prefer more heat, you could add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. Season the sauce generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to taste. A hint of cumin can also enhance the authentic flavor profile. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, ensuring your easy enchilada sauce is perfectly balanced and ready to envelop your chicken-filled tortillas. For another creamy delight, check out our creamy chicken alfredo lasagna rolls.

Assembling the Enchilada Dish

Layering and Topping Clearly

With your chicken filling prepared and your creamy white sauce ready, assembling the enchiladas is the final step before baking. Begin by lightly coating the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish with a thin layer of your white sauce. This prevents the tortillas from sticking and adds moisture from the start. Arrange your rolled chicken enchiladas, seam-side down, snugly in the baking dish. You might need to arrange them in two rows, depending on the size of your tortillas and dish.

Once all the enchiladas are in place, generously spoon the remaining white sauce over the top. Ensure every tortilla is covered, as this helps keep them moist and flavorful during baking. Finally, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over the entire dish. A blend of Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a Mexican cheese blend works perfectly, creating a beautiful golden-brown crust. This careful layering ensures every component contributes to the rich, cohesive flavor of your homemade enchiladas, making it a truly satisfying family meal.

Baking Your Enchiladas Perfectly

Look for Bubbly Cheese

Baking is where the magic happens, transforming your assembled dish into golden, bubbly perfection. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil. This helps to steam the enchiladas and ensure they heat through without drying out the tortillas or burning the cheese prematurely. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the enchiladas are heated through and the sauce around the edges is bubbly.

The key indicator of perfectly baked enchiladas is the cheese. Once the initial baking time is up, remove the foil. You want to see the cheese melted and starting to bubble around the edges. It should look gooey and inviting. Continue baking uncovered for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the cheese on top to become beautifully golden and slightly browned. This final uncovered bake adds texture and visual appeal to your delicious easy chicken enchiladas, ensuring they are cooked to absolute perfection and ready for your family dinner.

Achieving a Golden Finish

Broil for Extra Crispness

While baking ensures your enchiladas are heated through and the cheese is melted, a quick turn under the broiler can elevate them to a new level of deliciousness. After your enchiladas have baked uncovered and the cheese is bubbly and golden, you might notice that some parts of the cheese are not as browned or crispy as you’d like. This is where the broiler comes in handy.

Carefully place the baking dish under your oven’s broiler, keeping a close watch. Broilers vary in intensity, so staying vigilant is important. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese has achieved a beautifully golden-brown color and a slightly crispy texture. Be extremely careful not to let it burn, as broilers can go from perfect to burnt in a matter of seconds. Once done, remove the dish from the oven. This extra step provides a delightful textural contrast, enhancing the overall experience of your creamy chicken enchiladas and making them look incredibly appealing for serving.

Serving Your Delicious Enchiladas

Fresh Garnish Suggestions

After all the effort of preparing and baking, serving your easy white sauce chicken enchiladas is the final rewarding step. Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve clean portions. Use a spatula to carefully lift each enchilada onto plates.

To add a burst of freshness and color, consider a few simple garnishes. Freshly chopped cilantro is a classic choice, providing a vibrant, herbaceous counterpoint to the rich sauce. Sliced green onions offer a mild oniony bite and visual appeal. A dollop of extra sour cream or a slice of avocado can add another layer of creaminess and flavor. For a touch of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of your favorite mild salsa works wonders. Serve alongside a simple green salad or some Mexican rice for a complete and satisfying family meal. This dish, much like our cheesy chicken and rice casserole, is a true crowd-pleaser.

Easy Chicken Enchiladas Timeline

Quick Prep and Cook Times

One of the many reasons this homemade chicken enchiladas recipe is a favorite is its remarkably efficient timeline, allowing you to get a delicious family dinner on the table without hours of labor. If you start with cooked chicken, your prep time for the filling can be as little as 10-15 minutes. Shredding the chicken, mixing in seasonings, and setting it aside is a speedy process. The white sauce, while made from scratch, comes together in about 10 minutes from start to finish. Warming tortillas and assembling the enchiladas typically takes another 10-15 minutes.

So, you’re looking at a total active prep time of approximately 30-40 minutes. The baking time is about 25-35 minutes, including the final uncovered bake and optional broiling for a golden finish. This means from start to finish, you can have a piping hot, satisfying dish on your table in just over an hour. This quick prep and cook time makes these creamy enchiladas an ideal choice for busy weeknights, demonstrating that wholesome, homemade meals don’t have to be time-consuming. For more quick recipe ideas and inspiration, visit our Pinterest and Instagram!

Enjoy Your Homemade Enchiladas

A Satisfying Family Meal

There’s immense satisfaction in preparing a delicious homemade meal from scratch, and these easy white sauce chicken enchiladas deliver that feeling in spades. The aroma filling your kitchen as they bake is just the beginning of a truly comforting experience. This recipe proves that even classic comfort foods can be simplified without sacrificing any of their beloved flavor or appeal. Whether it’s the rich, creamy sauce, the tender seasoned chicken, or the perfectly melted cheese, every element comes together to create a dish that’s both indulgent and incredibly satisfying.

Gather your family around the table and watch as these enchiladas disappear. It’s a versatile dish that can be adjusted to suit different palates, making it a reliable choice for any occasion. From weeknight dinners to casual get-togethers, these creamy chicken enchiladas are sure to become a cherished addition to your recipe rotation. Enjoy the warmth, the flavors, and the joy of sharing a truly delightful meal made right in your own kitchen. It’s more than just food; it’s a moment of togetherness and culinary happiness.