Chicken Enchiladas with Creamy White Sauce
There’s something about a bubbling pan of enchiladas that instantly makes a kitchen feel warmer. Maybe it’s the way the cheese melts into golden perfection, or the creamy sauce that wraps everything in pure comfort. These creamy white sauce chicken enchiladas are the kind of meal you make when you want everyone at the table to pause after the first bite and say, “Wow.”
They’re perfect for busy weeknights when you need something reliable and cozy, but they’re just as welcome at a casual dinner with friends. Soft tortillas wrapped around tender chicken, all tucked under a velvety, savory sauce — it’s rich without being heavy, creamy without being overwhelming. And that cheesy, slightly golden top? Absolute magic.
Let’s make something delicious.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
8 small flour tortillas
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup diced fresh tomatoes (for garnish)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This makes sure nothing sticks and cleanup stays easy.
2. Mix the Filling
In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese. Add a small pinch of salt, pepper, and just a touch of cumin. Stir until everything is evenly mixed. The cheese will melt inside the tortillas and hold the filling together beautifully.
3. Fill and Roll
Lay out your tortillas. Spoon the chicken mixture evenly down the center of each one. Roll them up snugly — not too tight, just enough to keep everything tucked in. Place them seam-side down in the baking dish in a neat row.
4. Make the Creamy White Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once warm, whisk in the flour. Keep whisking for about 1–2 minutes. It should look smooth and lightly golden — that’s your roux.
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking constantly. This helps prevent lumps. Let it cook for about 3–4 minutes until it thickens. You’ll notice it becoming silky and slightly glossy.
5. Finish the Sauce
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, remaining cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until smooth and creamy. Don’t let it boil — you just want it warmed through and velvety.
6. Assemble
Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas. Make sure every inch is covered. Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack and mozzarella over the top. Don’t be shy — this is where that irresistible cheesy crust comes from.
7. Bake
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You’ll hear that gentle sizzle when it’s ready.
If you like a lightly golden top, switch to broil for the last 1–2 minutes. Keep an eye on it — it browns quickly.
8. Rest and Garnish
Let the enchiladas rest for about 5 minutes after removing them from the oven. This helps everything set.
Top with fresh diced tomatoes and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro. The freshness balances the richness perfectly.
Presentation
Serve these enchiladas straight from the baking dish for that rustic, family-style feel. Add a dollop of sour cream on each serving and maybe a few extra herbs scattered on top for color.
If you want to make it extra special, serve with a simple side salad or some warm rice. The bright greens and fluffy grains make the creamy enchiladas pop even more.
And don’t forget — a squeeze of fresh lime right before eating adds a subtle brightness that takes it to another level.
Nutritional Information:
⏰ Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
🔥 Kcal: Approximately 450 kcal per serving
🍽️ Servings: 4 servings
Conclusion
These creamy white sauce chicken enchiladas are pure comfort in every bite. They’re cheesy, satisfying, and just the right amount of indulgent. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone back to the table for seconds — and maybe even thirds.
If you’re craving something cozy, familiar, and guaranteed to impress, this is your sign to make them. Light a candle, set the table, and let the oven do the work. You’re going to love this one.