Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce

These creamy Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce are a delightful dish packed with flavor and comfort. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, these enchiladas are easy to make and sure to impress. The combination of tender chicken, melted cheese, and a rich sour cream sauce makes each bite irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for entertaining guests.
• Flavorful Filling: The shredded chicken combined with Monterey Jack cheese creates a savory and satisfying filling.
• Creamy Sauce: The sour cream white sauce adds a luscious texture that elevates the enchiladas to another level.
• Versatile Dish: Customize your enchiladas by adding your favorite vegetables or spices for an extra kick.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the enchiladas in advance and bake them just before serving for a stress-free meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make the cooking process smooth, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delicious enchiladas.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Skillet
• Whisk
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick cooking spray: Prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of the enchiladas from the baking dish.
• Skillet: Ideal for making the creamy sauce; its even heat distribution helps achieve the perfect consistency.
• Whisk: Essential for blending ingredients smoothly, especially when creating sauces.

Ingredients

For the Enchiladas

• 8-10 small flour tortillas
• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
• 3 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (divided)

For the Sour Cream White Sauce

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies (mild)
• 2-3 tablespoons green onions, sliced

How to Make Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prepare it for the enchiladas.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

Step 3: Fill the Tortillas

Take each tortilla and fill it with the chicken and cheese mixture. Roll each tortilla up tightly and place them seam-side down in your prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk until combined. Cook this mixture for about 1 minute to eliminate any raw flour taste.
Remove from heat, then gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Return to heat and cook until thickened and bubbly, about 3-5 minutes. Allow it to cool slightly before stirring in sour cream and diced green chilies.

Step 5: Assemble Enchiladas

Pour your creamy sauce evenly over the filled tortillas in the baking dish. Top with the remaining 2 cups of Monterey Jack cheese for that gooey finish.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through and bubbly. For an extra golden top, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes until lightly browned.

Step 7: Serve Your Delicious Dish

Once baked, garnish your enchiladas with sliced green onions. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting meal!

How to Serve Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce

Serving Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce is all about enhancing flavors and providing a delightful dining experience. Here are some creative ways to serve this comforting dish.

Garnish with Fresh Ingredients

• Sliced Avocados – Add creamy avocado slices for a rich texture that complements the enchiladas.
• Chopped Cilantro – Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Lime Wedges – Serve lime wedges on the side for an added zesty kick.

Pair with Complementary Sides

• Mexican Rice – A classic side that adds a wholesome touch to your meal.
• Refried Beans – These creamy beans are perfect for scooping and add extra protein.
• Corn Salad – A refreshing salad with corn, tomatoes, and lime dressing balances the richness of the enchiladas.

Create a Festive Platter

• Serve Family-Style – Place the enchiladas in a large serving dish so everyone can help themselves.
• Add Colorful Dips – Include guacamole and salsa for variety, appealing to different tastes.

How to Perfect Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce

Perfecting Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce is easy with these tips. Follow them to elevate your dish to restaurant quality.

• Use Rotisserie Chicken – For convenience, opt for store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking.
• Warm Tortillas First – Heat tortillas briefly on a skillet to make them pliable and easier to roll.
• Don’t Skimp on Cheese – Generously layer cheese both inside and on top of the enchiladas for extra creaminess.
• Adjust Spice Levels – If you prefer spicier enchiladas, add diced jalapeños or use spicy green chilies in the sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce enhances your meal’s overall taste. Here are some great suggestions.

1. Guacamole – This creamy avocado dip offers a delicious contrast to cheesy enchiladas.
2. Mexican Street Corn (Elote) – Grilled corn smothered in mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime makes a tasty addition.
3. Pico de Gallo – Fresh tomato salsa adds brightness and crunch alongside the warm enchiladas.
4. Chips and Salsa – Crispy tortilla chips served with vibrant salsa provide a fun snack before the main course.
5. Black Bean Salad – A refreshing salad combining black beans, corn, bell peppers, and lime dressing complements the dish perfectly.
6. Zucchini Fritters – Lightly fried zucchini fritters add a crunchy texture that pairs well with the creamy sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce can be simple, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Using Cold Ingredients – Ensure your chicken and cheese are at room temperature before using them. This helps the enchiladas cook evenly and enhances flavor.
• Overfilling the Tortillas – It’s tempting to pack in too much filling, but overfilling can cause the tortillas to break. Stick to a moderate amount of chicken and cheese for best results.
• Skipping the Sauce Cooling Step – Adding sour cream directly into a hot sauce can cause curdling. Let the sauce cool slightly before mixing it in to achieve a creamy texture.
• Not Preheating the Oven – If you skip preheating, your enchiladas may not cook evenly. Always ensure your oven is at 350°F (177°C) before baking.
• Ignoring Baking Time – Keep an eye on the clock! Baking for too long can dry out the enchiladas; aim for 20-25 minutes for perfectly cooked enchiladas.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe container.
• These enchiladas can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (177°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet with a lid over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to create steam while reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce.

Can I use other meats in Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or beef for different flavors that work well with this recipe.

How do I make my sour cream sauce thicker?

If you’d like a thicker sauce, consider adding more flour when making your roux or allow it to simmer longer until it reaches your desired consistency.

Can I add vegetables to my Chicken Enchiladas?

Absolutely! Feel free to add sautéed bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for an extra nutritional boost and flavor.

What side dishes pair well with Chicken Enchiladas?

Serve these enchiladas alongside rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that satisfies all appetites.

Final Thoughts

These Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce are creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious! Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, they are easily customizable. You can experiment with different proteins or add veggies based on your preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy delightful flavors!