Creamy Chicken Enchiladas: Delicious Recipe with Sour Cream Sauce

Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful? Look no further than these Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream Sauce! This recipe takes classic Mexican flavors and transforms them into a creamy delight that will have your taste buds singing. Imagine tender shreds of chicken and gooey Monterey Jack cheese enveloped in soft flour tortillas, then generously smothered in a homemade sour cream sauce with a hint of mild green chilies. It’s a dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners yet special enough for entertaining guests.

What sets these Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream Sauce apart is the velvety richness of the homemade sauce. Made from scratch with a butter-flour roux, this sauce ensures the perfect balance of thickness and flavor, coating each enchilada with creamy goodness. The double dose of Monterey Jack cheese adds layers of melty perfection, while the green onions provide a fresh, zesty contrast. In just 45 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table that will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, this recipe will become a staple in your rotation, bringing warmth and satisfaction to every bite.

Quick Benefits

  • Creamy and comforting: The homemade white sauce with sour cream and green chilies creates a velvety blanket that coats each enchilada perfectly.
  • Make-ahead and freezer-friendly: These enchiladas reheat beautifully, making them perfect for busy weeknight meals or meal prep. They can also be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and frozen for up to three months.
  • Customizable and forgiving: Adjust the spice level and ingredients to match your family’s preferences. The dish is forgiving and allows for personalization without compromising the flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Enchiladas: Delicious Recipe with Sour Cream Sauce Recipe

  • The creamy, homemade sour cream sauce combined with mild green chilies elevates the traditional chicken enchiladas, creating a comforting and flavorful dish that is sure to impress your taste buds.
  • The double layer of Monterey Jack cheese – both inside the enchiladas and on top – offers a melty and gooey texture that cheese lovers will adore.
  • The recipe’s versatility allows you to adjust the spice levels and ingredients to suit your preferences, making it a hit with all family members, even those with specific tastes.
  • With a preparation time of just 45 minutes, these enchiladas are perfect for a quick weeknight meal that feels special enough to serve to guests, saving you time without compromising on flavor.
  • The enchiladas reheat beautifully, making them an ideal option for meal prep or busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal in a hurry.
  • The forgiving nature of the recipe, along with make-ahead options and freezing capabilities, provides convenience and flexibility for stress-free entertaining or planning ahead.

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Enchiladas: Delicious Recipe with Sour Cream Sauce

Enchilada Base

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

White Sauce

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

Garnish

  • 2-3 tablespoons green onions, sliced

Pro Tips for Creamy Chicken Enchiladas: Delicious Recipe with Sour Cream Sauce

Pro Tip 1: For the creamiest sauce, use full-fat sour cream and shred your Monterey Jack cheese from a fresh block for the best melting consistency. This will ensure a velvety texture that elevates the dish to a whole new level of comfort.

Pro Tip 2: To save time on busy nights, assemble the enchiladas up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. This not only streamlines the cooking process but also allows the flavors to meld together for an even more delicious end result. Plus, the enchiladas freeze well, providing a convenient make-ahead option for future meals.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Enchiladas: Delicious Recipe with Sour Cream Sauce

Step 1: Step 01

Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) and coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Step 02

Combine shredded chicken and 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese in a small bowl.

Step 3: Step 03

Divide the chicken mixture among the tortillas, roll them up, and arrange them in the dish with the seam side facing down.

Step 4: Step 04

In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Remove from heat and slowly whisk in broth. Return to heat and cook until thickened and bubbly, about 3-5 minutes. Let cool slightly, then stir in sour cream and green chilies until smooth.

Step 5: Step 05

Pour the sauce over the enchiladas and sprinkle with the remaining 2 cups of cheese.

Step 6: Step 06

Bake for 20-25 minutes until hot and bubbly. Optionally, broil for 1-2 minutes for a golden top.

Step 7: Step 07

Sprinkle with sliced green onions and serve while warm.

Storage Tips

To store Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream Sauce, it’s best to wrap the dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap once it has cooled to room temperature. Properly wrapped enchiladas can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you can warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole dish in the oven at a low temperature to maintain the integrity of the flavors and textures.

For longer storage, these enchiladas freeze beautifully for up to three months. To freeze, wrap the dish securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the enchiladas overnight in the refrigerator before reheating them in the oven until heated through. This make-ahead option is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, allowing you to have a comforting and flavorful meal ready to go with minimal effort.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a gluten-free option, you can substitute corn tortillas for the flour tortillas in this Chicken Enchiladas recipe. Corn tortillas will provide a delicious alternative and add a slightly different flavor profile to the dish. Make sure to warm the corn tortillas slightly before rolling to prevent cracking.

If you prefer a different type of cheese or have dietary restrictions, feel free to swap out the Monterey Jack cheese for another melty cheese like cheddar, mozzarella, or a Mexican cheese blend. Each cheese will bring its unique taste to the dish, providing a new twist to the flavor profile. Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination.

If you are looking to make the dish lighter, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for sour cream. Greek yogurt will still provide creaminess to the sauce while reducing the overall fat content. Just be mindful that Greek yogurt may have a slightly tangier flavor compared to sour cream, so adjust seasonings as needed.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try turning these White Chicken Enchiladas into a build-your-own enchilada bar for a fun dinner party idea. Set out bowls of additional toppings like diced tomatoes, avocado slices, black olives, and cilantro, allowing guests to customize their enchiladas with their favorite ingredients. This interactive setup adds a festive and personalized touch to the meal, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

To elevate the presentation of these creamy enchiladas, consider serving them in individual cast-iron skillets or colorful baking dishes for a charming and rustic look. Garnish each enchilada with a sprinkle of fresh green onions and a dollop of sour cream before placing them on the table, creating a visually appealing and inviting display that will impress your guests. The individual servings not only add a touch of elegance but also make for easy serving and portion control.

FAQs for Creamy Chicken Enchiladas: Delicious Recipe with Sour Cream Sauce

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas for this recipe?

While corn tortillas can be used, they may not provide the same soft texture and flavor that flour tortillas offer in this dish. If you prefer corn tortillas, you may want to lightly fry or heat them before assembling the enchiladas to prevent them from becoming too brittle.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the chicken?

Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version of these enchiladas by omitting the chicken. You can add extra veggies like bell peppers, corn, or black beans to the filling to make up for the absence of meat.

Can I substitute another type of cheese for Monterey Jack in this recipe?

Absolutely! While Monterey Jack cheese provides a mild and creamy flavor, you can experiment with cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for a different taste profile. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the overall flavor of the dish.

How can I make this recipe spicier for those who enjoy more heat?

If you prefer a spicier version of these enchiladas, you can use hot green chilies or add some chopped jalapeños to the filling. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce over the top before baking to increase the heat level to your liking.

Conclusion

As you savor the last bite of these luscious Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream Sauce, I hope you feel the warmth and comfort that a homemade meal can bring. With each creamy, flavorful bite, these enchiladas have a way of making even the simplest moments feel special. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just for yourself, remember that good food has a way of bringing people together and creating lasting memories.

So, the next time you’re in the mood for a delicious and satisfying dish, don’t hesitate to whip up a batch of these Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream Sauce. With their velvety sauce, tender chicken, and melty cheese, they are sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy the process of cooking and sharing this meal with your loved ones, and may it bring you as much joy as it has brought me. Happy cooking!

Creamy Chicken Enchiladas: Delicious Recipe with Sour Cream Sauce

Creamy Chicken Enchiladas: Delicious Recipe with Sour Cream Sauce

Creamy Chicken Enchiladas with velvety Sour Cream Sauce, a comforting dish with layers of shredded chicken, Monterey Jack cheese, and mild green chilies.
Prep Time15 Minutes
Cook Time30 Minutes
Total Time45 Minutes
CuisineMexican
Skill LevelIntermediate
Servings6 Servings (8-10 enchiladas)

Ingredients

Enchilada Base

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

White Sauce

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

Garnish

  • 2-3 tablespoons green onions, sliced

Instructions

  1. Step 01: Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) and coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. Step 02: Combine shredded chicken and 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese in a small bowl.
  3. Step 03: Divide the chicken mixture among the tortillas, roll them up, and arrange them in the dish with the seam side facing down.
  4. Step 04: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Remove from heat and slowly whisk in broth. Return to heat and cook until thickened and bubbly, about 3-5 minutes. Let cool slightly, then stir in sour cream and green chilies until smooth.
  5. Step 05: Pour the sauce over the enchiladas and sprinkle with the remaining 2 cups of cheese.
  6. Step 06: Bake for 20-25 minutes until hot and bubbly. Optionally, broil for 1-2 minutes for a golden top.
  7. Step 07: Sprinkle with sliced green onions and serve while warm.