White chicken enchiladas are a delicious and comforting dish that hails from the rich culinary tradition of Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. They typically consist of tender,
shredded chicken enveloped in soft corn or flour tortillas, which are then smothered in a creamy white sauce and baked to perfection. This dish is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, making it a favorite for family meals, gatherings, and potlucks.:
### Ingredients and Preparation
The crowning glory of white chicken enchiladas is the creamy sauce, which often consists of a combination of cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and green enchilada sauce.
This mixture is rich and slightly tangy, perfectly balancing the savory flavor of the chicken. Some recipes elevate the sauce by incorporating additional ingredients such as cream cheese, diced green chiles, and shredded cheese, which create a luscious, velvety texture.:
Once assembled, the enchiladas are generously covered with the creamy sauce and topped with shredded cheese, which might include Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a blend of the two. The dish is then baked in the oven until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the flavors meld beautifully.:
### Serving Suggestions
White chicken enchiladas are often served with a variety of accompaniments that enhance their flavor profile. Common side dishes include Spanish rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad with avocado and lime dressing. Garnishes such as chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and diced red onions add a pop of color and additional flavor.:
For those who enjoy a little kick, serving the enchiladas with a side of salsa verde or hot sauce can elevate the dish even further. A dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top adds creaminess and balances the richness of the sauce.:
### Conclusion
This dish is not only beloved for its taste but also for its versatility. White chicken enchiladas can easily be customized to suit personal preferences, whether by adjusting the spice level,
adding different vegetables, or even swapping the chicken for another protein such as shrimp or beans for a vegetarian option. With its warm, comforting flavors and creamy texture, white chicken enchiladas are a standout in any recipe repertoire, sure to please both casual diners and discerning palates alike.:
INGREDIENTS:
WHITE CHICKEN ENCHILADAS
- 10 flour taco shells
- 2–3 cups cooked, shredded chicken *see notes*
- 2 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 3 Tbsp butter
- 3 Tbsp flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (4oz) diced green chilies
INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9×14 pan.
Mix shredded chicken and 1 cup of cheese in a bowl. Roll up the chicken into the 10 tortillas and place seam down in the prepared pan.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Stir in the flour and stir while cooking for 2 minutes.
Add in the broth and whisk until smooth. Heat over medium heat until thick and bubbly. This will take about 15 minutes.
Turn off the heat on the saucepan and stir in the sour cream and green chilies. Stir well and remove from heat so your sour cream won’t curdle. When it is mixed well, pour your sauce over the enchiladas in the pan.
Top with the remaining 1 1/2 cup cheese.
Bake for 22 minutes and then broil on high for 3 minutes at the end to get the cheese bubbly.
Enjoy!