As the sun began to set on a chaotic week, I found myself yearning for something comforting yet easy to make. Then, like a happy culinary accident, my go-to white chicken enchiladas came to mind. The memory of their creamy cheese sauce bubbling in the oven is enough to make anyone’s mouth water! Picture this: tender, shredded rotisserie chicken wrapped in soft tortillas and baked to perfection—this dish is not just a meal; it’s a hug on a plate.
What I love most about these enchiladas is their remarkable versatility. Want to dial up the heat? Toss in fresh jalapeños! Perhaps you prefer a milder touch—swap in your favorite cheese. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a get-together with friends, these white chicken enchiladas deliver rich flavors and satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. Let me show you how to whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time!
Why are WHITE CHICKEN ENCHILADAS a must-try?
Comforting and Delicious: These enchiladas are the epitome of home-cooked comfort, featuring tender rotisserie chicken enveloped in creamy cheese sauce.
Quick to Prepare: With rotisserie chicken, your cooking time is cut down, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable Flavors: Adjust the spice level by adding jalapeños or swap cheeses to suit your family’s preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for gatherings, these enchiladas are sure to please everyone at the table.
Make-Ahead Option: Prepare them in advance and pop them in the oven before serving; it’s that easy!
Alive with flavors and simplicity, these white chicken enchiladas will become your new family favorite in no time!
WHITE CHICKEN ENCHILADAS Ingredients
For the Filling
• Rotisserie Chicken – Provides tender, seasoned chicken; perfect for quick preparation.
• Taco Seasoning Packet – Adds bold flavor to the filling and sauce; feel free to customize with homemade seasoning.
• Flour Tortillas (6-8) – Encases the filling; soft and pliable for easy rolling.
For the Creamy Sauce
• Cream Cheese (4 oz, softened) – Adds luscious creaminess to the filling; substitutes well with Neufchâtel cheese for a lighter option.
• Monterey Jack Cheese (2 cups, shredded) – Melts beautifully for a creamy texture; always shred from the block for optimal melting.
• Butter (3 tablespoons) – Brings richness to the sauce; you can substitute with olive oil for a lighter touch.
• Flour (3 tablespoons) – Thickens the sauce effectively; use gluten-free flour for a GF option.
• Chicken Broth (2 cups) – Provides the base for the sauce; vegetable broth can be swapped for a lighter flavor.
• Sour Cream (¾ cup) – Adds tanginess and creaminess to the sauce; Greek yogurt makes for a healthier alternative.
• Diced Chilies (1, 4 oz can) – Delivers mild heat and flavor; fresh jalapeños amp up the spice if desired.
How to Make White Chicken Enchiladas
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix shredded rotisserie chicken, half of the Monterey Jack cheese, softened cream cheese, diced chilies, and half of the taco seasoning. Stir until everything is well combined and set aside.
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Fill Tortillas: Spoon an even amount of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla. Roll them up tightly and place seam-side down in a greased 9″x13″ baking dish, creating a cozy arrangement.
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Prepare the Sauce: In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and remaining taco seasoning, cooking for about 3 minutes until golden and fragrant.
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Make It Creamy: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, stirring until smooth. Then add the remaining shredded cheese and sour cream, cooking until everything is melted and creamy—this is the magic!
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Layer and Bake: Pour the delightful creamy sauce over the filled tortillas, ensuring they are well covered. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and sprinkle dried parsley on top if using.
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Bake to Perfection: Place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and golden. Allow to cool just slightly before digging in!
Optional: Top with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with White Chicken Enchiladas?
Every bite of these creamy delights deserves some delightful companions to complete the meal experience.
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Cheesy Taco Rice: This dish adds a balanced cheesy zest that pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of the enchiladas. It’s flavorful and filling, making it a fantastic sidekick.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of colorful roasted veggies brings freshness and crunch, beautifully contrasting the creamy enchiladas. Think bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions, kissed by the oven’s warmth.
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Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad with lime and cilantro adds brightness to your plate, cutting through the richness of the dish. Its sweet freshness is a delightful complement to the meal.
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Guacamole: This classic dip elevates your enchiladas with its creamy avocado goodness. Plus, it adds a touch of coolness, making each bite even more enjoyable.
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Black Beans: They’re hearty and nutritious—black beans sprinkled with spices or served in a zesty salad enhance the meal while keeping it wholesome.
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Margaritas: A refreshing margarita can perfectly enhance the flavors of the enchiladas while adding a festive touch to your dinner.
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Churros: For dessert, succulent churros drizzled with chocolate sauce can round off the meal with a sweet finish that your family will rave about for days!
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Mexican Street Corn: Topped with cheese and spices, this dish adds a delightful burst of flavor and texture, enhancing your enchiladas experience.
With these delightful options, you can create a full meal that’s rich in flavor, texture, and heartwarming memories. Enjoy!
WHITE CHICKEN ENCHILADAS Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this delightful recipe to your taste buds’ desire!
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Spice It Up: Add fresh jalapeños or replace taco seasoning with a hot version for a fiery kick. Spice brings life and excitement to every bite!
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Vegetarian Twist: Swap out the chicken for sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or black beans for a hearty meat-free option that still satisfies.
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Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheeses like Pepper Jack or sharp Cheddar for a bold, flavor-packed twist on the classic.
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Creamy Avocado: Mix in diced avocado into the filling for an extra creamy texture and fresh taste that brings brightness.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh cilantro or scallions into the filling for a refreshing herbal note that elevates the dish immensely.
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Zesty Lime: Squeeze in some fresh lime juice into the filling or serve with lime wedges for a zesty pop that complements the creaminess perfectly.
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Crunchy Topping: Add crushed tortilla chips on top before baking for a delightful crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
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Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini or cauliflower tortillas for a scrumptious low-carb version that keeps all the flavor without the extra carbs.
How to Store and Freeze White Chicken Enchiladas
Fridge: Store baked enchiladas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze assembled but unbaked enchiladas wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until heated through. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth to keep them moist.
Make-Ahead: These white chicken enchiladas can be prepped and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking, making weeknight dinners easy and convenient.
Make Ahead Options
These white chicken enchiladas are a fantastic choice for meal prep, especially for busy weeknights! You can assemble them up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. If you want to prep even further ahead, the filled tortillas can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days before baking. To maintain their delightful quality, it’s best to wait until just before baking to pour on the creamy sauce. When ready to serve, remove from the refrigerator, pour the sauce over, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Enjoy a stress-free dinner!
Expert Tips for White Chicken Enchiladas
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Cheese Melting: Always shred cheese from a block: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent proper melting in your enchiladas.
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Tortilla Preparation: Warm tortillas before use: This prevents cracking when rolling your tortillas and ensures a smooth filling experience.
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Advance Prep: Assemble ahead of time: You can prepare your enchiladas and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking—saving time on busier nights.
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Customize Spice Levels: Adjust taco seasoning: For those who enjoy more heat, consider using a spicier taco seasoning or add fresh jalapeños directly to the filling.
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Silky Sauce: Whisk sauce continuously: When adding chicken broth and sour cream, keep whisking for a creamy texture that binds beautifully to your white chicken enchiladas.
White Chicken Enchiladas Recipe FAQs
What kind of rotisserie chicken should I use?
You can use any store-bought rotisserie chicken. Look for one that is fully cooked, moist, and flavorful. It’s best to choose a chicken without dark spots or signs of being overly dried out. If you prefer, you can also use leftover roasted or cooked chicken breasts.
How do I store leftover white chicken enchiladas?
Store baked enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow them to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup, which can make them soggy.
Can I freeze white chicken enchiladas?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap assembled but unbaked enchiladas tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.
The sauce turned out too thick; what can I do?
If your sauce is thicker than desired, simply whisk in a little bit of warm chicken broth or water until you reach your preferred consistency. It’s totally okay to adjust it! Just keep stirring while adding the liquid to ensure a smooth texture.
Can I make these enchiladas vegetarian?
Yes! For a vegetarian option, swap out the rotisserie chicken for sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also use a mixture of beans such as black beans or refried beans for added protein and flavor.
Is there a low-fat substitute for the ingredients?
Certainly! You can replace cream cheese with Neufchâtel cheese or Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative. Use low-fat shredded cheese and opt for a smaller amount of butter or substitute with olive oil. Adjusting the taco seasoning by making it at home can also help control the sodium content, making your white chicken enchiladas a lighter meal!
Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas for Quick Family Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, mix shredded rotisserie chicken, half of the Monterey Jack cheese, softened cream cheese, diced chilies, and half of the taco seasoning. Stir until well combined.
- Spoon an even amount of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla. Roll them up tightly and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Melt the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Whisk in the flour and remaining taco seasoning, cooking for about 3 minutes until golden.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, stirring until smooth. Then add the remaining shredded cheese and sour cream, cooking until everything is melted and creamy.
- Pour the sauce over the filled tortillas, covering them well. Season with salt and pepper and sprinkle dried parsley on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.