Name: Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles, divided; 8 flour tortillas; 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup diced tomatoes; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

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If you are searching for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you have to try this Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce Recipe. It brings together tender shredded chicken, soft tortillas, and a luscious creamy white sauce that’s bursting with just the right amount of tang and a little hint of green chiles. The melted Monterey Jack cheese that blankets these enchiladas creates an irresistible gooey finish. This recipe is a perfect balance of comforting flavors and creamy textures that will have you coming back for seconds and sharing the secret with your closest friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl holds a layered mixture on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is chunky and light brown, topped by a generous layer of shredded pale yellow cheese with some black pepper sprinkled over it. The bowl sits on a white cloth with a black grid pattern, and a silver spoon lies next to it on the right side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity and the freshness of each ingredient. Every component plays a vital role, from the tender chicken that adds protein and substance, to the creamy sour cream sauce that brings everything together with a velvety touch. These ingredients come together to create a colorful, savory meal that’s as inviting as it is delicious.

2 cups shredded cooked chicken: The hearty protein base that soaks up all the creamy, delicious flavors.
8 flour tortillas: Soft and pliable, they wrap the filling perfectly, holding all the ingredients together.
2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps create the smooth roux for the sauce.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the sour cream white sauce to silky perfection.
1 1/2 cups chicken broth: Provides depth and flavor to the sauce, making it more savory and satisfying.
1 cup sour cream: The key to the creamy tangy white sauce that makes this recipe unforgettable.
1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles: Adds a subtle kick of mild heat and vibrant color.
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Melts beautifully over the enchiladas for a gooey, cheesy topping.
1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional for topping): Adds freshness and a pop of color as a garnish.
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional for topping): Provides a fresh herbal note that brightens the dish.

How to Make Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Chicken Filling

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), so it’s ready when your enchiladas are assembled. In a bowl, mix together the shredded cooked chicken with half a cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese and half of the diced green chiles. This ensures the filling is flavorful and moist before it gets rolled into the tortillas.

Step 2: Make the Roux for the White Sauce

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for one to two minutes, stirring constantly. This step is crucial as it cooks off the raw flour taste and builds a silky base for the sauce.

Step 3: Add the Chicken Broth and Simmer

Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer until it thickens. This rich broth-thickened base will soon transform into the signature sour cream white sauce.

Step 4: Incorporate Sour Cream and Green Chiles

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the sour cream along with the remaining diced green chiles. Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy. This luscious sauce is what makes these enchiladas stand out with its tangy, soothing flavor.

Step 5: Assemble the Enchiladas

Spoon the chicken mixture evenly onto each tortilla, roll them up tightly, and place them seam-side down in a greased baking dish. This prevents them from unraveling while baking and keeps all the savory filling inside.

Step 6: Pour Sauce and Add Cheese

Generously pour the sour cream white sauce over the rolled enchiladas, spreading it out evenly. Then sprinkle the remaining shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top for a delectably golden, bubbly finish after baking.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese has melted into a golden, irresistible layer. Allow the enchiladas to rest for five minutes after baking; this helps set the layers so they slice beautifully when served.

How to Serve Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce Recipe

Two rolled crepes filled with a light brown filling rest side by side on a white plate. The crepes are topped with a thick, white creamy sauce that drapes over them, with hints of golden brown from slight browning on the edges. On top of the sauce, small chunks of red tomato, bright green chopped scallions, and finely chopped green herbs are scattered, adding fresh color and texture. The plate sits on a white marbled surface in soft lighting that highlights the creamy and fresh ingredients. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a vibrant touch, add diced tomatoes and fresh chopped cilantro on top just before serving. These bright and fresh garnishes bring freshness that balances the richer flavors and make the presentation pop with color.

Side Dishes

Pair your enchiladas with a simple green salad dressed lightly with lime vinaigrette or some Mexican-style rice. Refried beans or black beans make fantastic hearty companions that round out the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try individual baking dishes for personal servings or use colorful tortilla varieties like spinach or tomato for extra flair. You can also add sliced avocado or a drizzle of hot sauce on the plate for guests who love an extra kick.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover enchiladas in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making them even tastier the next day.

Freezing

This Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce Recipe freezes beautifully. Assemble the enchiladas in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual.

Reheating

Reheat your enchiladas in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and bubbling. You can cover with foil to keep them moist, removing it at the end to refresh the golden cheese topping.

FAQs

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Yes, you can substitute corn tortillas if you prefer, but keep in mind they can be a bit more fragile. To help prevent cracking, warm them briefly before rolling to improve pliability.

Is this recipe spicy? How can I adjust the heat?

This recipe has a mild kick from the diced green chiles. You can reduce the heat by using mild green chiles or omit them altogether. For more heat, add jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the shredded chicken for sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers, or use beans as the filling for a hearty vegetarian version topped with the same sour cream white sauce.

What is the best cheese for Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce Recipe?

Monterey Jack is perfect because it melts smoothly and has a mild flavor that complements the sauce and chicken. You could also mix in some mozzarella for extra stretch or a little sharp cheddar for more bite.

How do I know when the enchiladas are done baking?

They are ready when the sauce is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and golden brown. Usually, this takes 20-25 minutes in a 375°F oven.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce Recipe is such a joy to make and even more rewarding to eat. It hits all those comfort food notes with a creamy twist that’s bound to impress your family or guests. Go ahead and give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner or special occasion dish.