Best Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce

If you’re looking for a dinner recipe that will impress your family or guests, Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce is the perfect choice! This comforting dish features tender chicken wrapped in soft tortillas, smothered in a creamy, cheesy white sauce that’s impossible to resist.

Whether you’re making it for a casual weeknight meal or a festive gathering, these enchiladas offer the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and satisfaction.

Let’s dive into this easy, delicious recipe that will become your new favorite!

🛠️ Recipe Preparation Equipment

Before we begin, gather the following kitchen tools to make the preparation smooth and efficient:

• Large mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Saucepan
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon
• Skillet (optional for preheating tortillas)
• Aluminum foil
• Sharp knife and cutting board

🥣 What You Need to Prepare Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce ?

Here’s a detailed list of the ingredients you’ll need:

For the Enchiladas:

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 8-10 small flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or mozzarella)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for softening tortillas)

For the White Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies (optional for extra flavor)

🍽️ How to Make Easy Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce Step-by-Step ?

Follow these simple steps for a perfect result:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

• In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, half of the Monterey Jack cheese, and chopped onion.
• Mix well and set aside.

Step 2: Make the White Sauce

• In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
• Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
• Slowly add the chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
• Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened (about 3–5 minutes).
• Remove from heat and stir in the sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, salt, and green chilies if using.

Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
• Fill each tortilla with about 2–3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture, roll it up tightly, and place seam-side down in the baking dish.

Step 4: Pour the Sauce

• Pour the white sauce evenly over the enchiladas.
• Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack cheese and the cheddar cheese over the top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

• Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions if desired!

🌀 Variations

There are so many ways you can customize your chicken enchiladas with white sauce:

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
• Veggie Packed: Mix in sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms with the chicken filling.
• Protein Options: Try swapping the chicken for turkey or pulled pork.
• Sauce Twist: Mix in a little salsa verde with the white sauce for a tangy flavor.
• Cheese Lovers: Use a blend of Mexican cheeses like queso fresco, asadero, or pepper jack for added depth.

🍳 Cooking Note

• Make sure the chicken is well-seasoned before adding it to the tortillas. This ensures that each bite is packed with flavor.
• Don’t overstuff the tortillas; otherwise, they may burst open during baking.
• For an extra creamy white sauce, you can substitute half of the chicken broth with heavy cream or half-and-half.
• If you prefer a slightly crispy top, you can broil the enchiladas for 2–3 minutes after baking—watch carefully so they don’t burn!

🍴 Serving Suggestions

These creamy enchiladas pair wonderfully with a variety of sides:

• A fresh green salad with avocado dressing
• Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice
• Refried beans or black beans
• Corn on the cob or roasted Mexican street corn (Elote)
• A refreshing glass of limeade or a light margarita for adults

💡 Helpful Tips

• Pre-cook the chicken: Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a huge time-saver and adds extra flavor.
• Warm the tortillas: Microwave tortillas wrapped in a damp paper towel for 30 seconds to make them more pliable.
• Even Layering: When placing tortillas in the baking dish, keep them snug but not too tight.
• Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. If it’s too thin, cook it a little longer.
• Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the enchiladas the night before, cover tightly, and bake when ready to serve.

🏆 Tips for the Best Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce

• Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded to ensure it melts beautifully.
• Season every layer: the chicken, the sauce, and even sprinkle a little seasoning between layers if desired.
• Let the enchiladas rest for 5–10 minutes after baking. This makes them easier to serve without falling apart.
• A sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley on top adds brightness and freshness.

⏳ Timing Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30–35 minutes
• Total Time: 50–55 minutes

🥗 Nutritional Information

(Approximate per serving based on 8 servings)

• Calories: 410 kcal
• Protein: 22 g
• Sodium: 740 mg
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fat: 24 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 3 g

❓ FAQs

Q: Can I freeze chicken enchiladas with white sauce?
A: Absolutely! Assemble the enchiladas without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and bake when ready.

Q: How do I make it gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free tortillas and replace the all-purpose flour in the sauce with a gluten-free flour blend.

Q: What if I don’t have sour cream?
A: You can substitute plain Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier but still creamy sauce.

Q: How long do leftovers last?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat covered in the oven or microwave.

🎉 Conclusion

Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce are the ultimate comfort food rich, creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor! With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe guarantees delicious results every single time.

Whether you stick with the classic version or add your own twist, these enchiladas are sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings.

Make them tonight and watch them disappear in minutes!