Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe aroma of sizzling onions and garlic wafting through the kitchen instantly transports me to my favorite family gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients, I can create a comforting dish that brings everyone together—Chicken Enchiladas with Dreamy White Sauce. These enchiladas are not only a delightful take on traditional Mexican cuisine, but they’re also perfect for busy weeknights, ready in under an hour. The best part? You can customize the fillings to suit every palate, making them a fantastic option for both picky eaters and adventurous foodies alike. Ready to discover how to wrap up comfort food in just a few steps? Let’s dive into this cheesy, creamy delight! Why are these enchiladas a must-try? Comforting and satisfying: These Chicken Enchiladas with Dreamy White Sauce are like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for cozy family dinners. Customizable fillings: Mix and match your favorite ingredients like veggies or proteins to suit everyone’s taste, making it great for picky eaters. Quick and easy: You’ll have a hearty meal on the table in under an hour, turning hectic weeknights into delicious occasions. Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a casual family night or a gathering with friends, these enchiladas are sure to impress. Make-ahead friendly: Prep ahead of time and store in the fridge, making mealtime a breeze. Try pairing them with a refreshing Thai Chicken Salad for a balanced meal! Chicken Enchiladas with Dreamy White Sauce Ingredients • Discover the essential ingredients for your next family favorite! For the Filling Shredded Cooked Chicken – Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal prep without compromising flavor. Refried Beans – Adds creaminess and helps bind the filling, creating a delightful texture. Sweet Corn – Provides pops of sweetness and a colorful burst in each bite. Shredded Cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack) – Essential for that gooey, melty effect inside the enchiladas. Corn Tortillas – Opt for fresh tortillas to ensure easy rolling; they’re perfect for wrapping around the filling. For Sautéing Olive Oil – Use this to sauté vegetables, bringing out their rich flavors. Diced Onion – Builds the flavor foundation, adding sweetness and aroma to the filling. Minced Garlic – Uplifts the dish’s overall flavor profile, pairing perfectly with spices. For the Spice Blend Ground Cumin – Imparts an earthy warmth, creating that signature Mexican flavor. Chili Powder – Adjust the level of spice to suit your family; it brings warmth and depth to the dish. Salt & Black Pepper – Crucial for enhancing all the wonderful flavors in the enchiladas. For the Dreamy White Sauce Sour Cream – Forms the base of the creamy sauce, providing delightful tanginess. Heavy Cream – Enriches the sauce, giving it that indulgent, smooth texture. Chicken Broth – Thins out the sauce while adding umami richness to the overall flavor. For Garnish Fresh Cilantro – Adds a pop of freshness and color, elevating presentation; optional but highly recommended! These ingredients come together for the ultimate Chicken Enchiladas with Dreamy White Sauce that your family will adore! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Enchiladas with Dreamy White Sauce Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to ensure your Chicken Enchiladas with Dreamy White Sauce won’t stick while baking. This dish will be the cozy home for your enchiladas, so prepare it ahead of time for a smooth cooking process. Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, along with 1 teaspoon each of ground cumin and chili powder, plus salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the spices to release their aromatic goodness. Step 3: Combine the Filling In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onion and spice mixture with 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken, 1 cup of refried beans, 1 cup of sweet corn, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Gently mix until everything is well incorporated; this will be the hearty filling for your enchiladas. Set it aside while you prepare the tortillas for rolling. Step 4: Soften the Tortillas To ensure easy rolling, stack your corn tortillas and microwave them for about 30 seconds until warm and pliable. This step is crucial for avoiding tears when filling and rolling your Chicken Enchiladas with Dreamy White Sauce. Cover them with a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm and soft while you fill them. Step 5: Fill and Roll the Tortillas Take one tortilla and place about ¼ to ⅓ cup of the chicken mixture in the center. Roll it up tightly and place it seam-side down in the greased baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas until all the filling is used up, creating a lovely array of enchiladas nestled together, eagerly waiting for their creamy topping. Step 6: Whisk the Dreamy Sauce In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of sour cream, 1 cup of heavy cream, and 1 cup of chicken broth until smooth and creamy. This dreamy sauce will coat the enchiladas and create a luscious texture. Carefully pour the sauce evenly over the filled tortillas, ensuring all enchiladas are well covered for that heavenly outcome. Step 7: Bake to Perfection Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese on top of the sauced enchiladas, enhancing the creaminess. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and has turned a lovely golden-brown color. Remove the foil in the last 5 minutes if you desire an extra crispy top. Step 8: Let Rest and Garnish Once baked, remove the Chicken Enchiladas with Dreamy White Sauce from the oven and let them sit for 5 minutes. This resting time allows the sauce to set, making serving easier. Just before serving, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro to add a pop of color and refreshing flavor that will elevate your family dinner. Expert Tips for Chicken Enchiladas Tortilla Tricks: Always microwave your corn tortillas for about 30 seconds before filling them. This makes them soft and less likely to tear. Meat Matters: If you’re using rotisserie chicken, shred it while warm for easier handling and better flavor absorption in your enchiladas. Spice Control: Adjust the spice level in your chicken enchiladas by modifying the amount of chili powder or adding fresh jalapeños to the chicken mixture. Sitting Time: Allow the enchiladas to rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps the dreamy white sauce set and makes serving a breeze. Customization: Don’t hesitate to add veggies like diced zucchini or bell peppers into your filling mix for added nutrition and flavor, making these chicken enchiladas even more versatile! What to Serve with Chicken Enchiladas with Dreamy White Sauce Embrace the warmth of a family dinner by pairing these cheesy enchiladas with delightful sides and sips. Crisp Side Salad: A fresh, colorful salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness of enchiladas beautifully. Guacamole: Creamy homemade guacamole adds a luscious texture and a touch of avocado goodness that your taste buds will adore. Tortilla Chips and Salsa: Serve with crunchy tortilla chips and vibrant salsa for a perfect appetizer that gets everyone in the fiesta spirit. Mexican Street Corn: Flavorful elote brings a sweet and smoky element to the table, complementing the creamy enchiladas. Spanish Rice: This fluffy side adds heartiness and holds up to the creamy sauce, making every bite a delicious adventure. Black Bean Soup: A warm, spicy soup adds depth to your meal—perfect for dipping those tortilla chips! Margaritas: Light and refreshing margaritas enhance the flavors of the meal; the citrus notes balance the richness of the enchiladas. Churros for Dessert: End your meal on a sweet note with crispy churros, perfectly dusted with cinnamon sugar for a delightful treat. Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing beverages like sweet iced tea or zesty lemonade can cool down the heat from any extra spices in your enchiladas. How to Store and Freeze Chicken Enchiladas with Dreamy White Sauce Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Enchiladas in an airtight container for up to 4 days. They make a quick and comforting meal for busy weeknights! Freezer: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: To reheat, cover enchiladas with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth if the sauce thickens too much. Assemble Ahead: You can assemble enchiladas ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking, making it convenient for meal prep! Chicken Enchiladas with Dreamy White Sauce Variations Feel free to get creative with these delicious enchiladas—each twist brings a new delight to your table! Vegetable Boost: Add diced zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition and color in your filling. A veggie twist adds a delightful crunch! Protein Swap: Try using shredded beef or turkey in place of chicken for a unique flavor twist. Both options will blend seamlessly with the dreamy sauce. Dairy-Free: Substitute sour cream and heavy cream with coconut cream and plant-based yogurt for a creamy, dairy-free version. Spice It Up: Increase the heat by adding jalapeños or extra chili powder. For those who love heat, a spicy kick elevates the flavor beautifully! Gluten-Free: Ensure you use corn tortillas to make these enchiladas gluten-free. Perfectly soft and flavorful, they still hold up well! Extra Sauce: Make a larger batch of the dreamy sauce and drizzle over the top before serving. A drizzle adds an elegant touch to each plate. Rustic Style: Layer the ingredients lasagna-style instead of rolling them for a hearty, rustic casserole. It’s an easy way to serve a crowd! For even more family-friendly meals, consider preparing some comforting Oven Baked Chicken Thighs or trying a light and refreshing Thai Chicken Salad alongside this dish! Your dinner options just got even tastier. Make Ahead Options These Chicken Enchiladas with Dreamy White Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the enchiladas up to 24 hours in advance by following the complete filling and rolling steps, then cover them tightly and refrigerate. To maintain their quality, make sure to prepare the dreamy white sauce just before baking; this ensures the fresh flavors shine through when serving. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply whisk together the sauce, pour it over, and bake from the fridge straight to the oven—no need to wait for it to come to room temperature. This way, you can enjoy a comforting homemade dinner with minimal effort after a busy day! Chicken Enchiladas with Dreamy White Sauce Recipe FAQs What type of chicken should I use? I recommend using shredded cooked chicken, and rotisserie chicken is an excellent choice for speed and flavor. If you prefer, you can also cook and shred your own chicken breast or thighs, ensuring it’s fully cooked and seasoned before adding it to the filling. How do I store leftover enchiladas? Leftover Chicken Enchiladas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They make for a quick and comforting meal option during busy weeknights. Just pop them in the microwave or reheat them in the oven to enjoy again! Can I freeze Chicken Enchiladas? Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven for a delicious meal. What if my tortillas tear when rolling the enchiladas? This is a common issue, but you can easily prevent it! Make sure to microwave your corn tortillas for about 30 seconds to soften them before filling. If you notice dark spots or tears, simply cover them with a bit of sauce before baking for a delicious remedy. Are Chicken Enchiladas gluten-free? Yes, if you use gluten-free corn tortillas, these Chicken Enchiladas with Dreamy White Sauce can easily be made gluten-free! Just double-check the label to ensure there are no hidden gluten ingredients. Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time? Absolutely! You can assemble Chicken Enchiladas with Dreamy White Sauce and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them well with plastic wrap or foil, and when you’re ready to bake, remove the cover to ensure the tops don’t become soggy. Chicken Enchiladas with Dreamy White Sauce for Family Bliss A comforting dish of Chicken Enchiladas with Dreamy White Sauce, perfect for family gatherings and busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 50 minutes mins Servings: 6 enchiladasCourse: DinnerCuisine: MexicanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Filling2 cups Shredded Cooked Chicken Use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.1 cup Refried Beans Adds creaminess and binds the filling.1 cup Sweet Corn Provides sweetness and color.1 cup Shredded Cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack) Essential for gooey texture.12 count Corn Tortillas Opt for fresh for easy rolling.For Sautéing2 tablespoons Olive Oil For sautéing vegetables.1 count Diced Onion Builds the flavor foundation.3 count Minced Garlic Enhances overall flavor.For the Spice Blend1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Imparts earthy warmth.1 teaspoon Chili Powder Adjust spice level as needed.to taste Salt & Black Pepper Enhances flavors.For the Dreamy White Sauce1 cup Sour Cream Base of the creamy sauce.1 cup Heavy Cream Enriches the sauce.1 cup Chicken Broth Adds umami richness.For Garnishto taste Fresh Cilantro Optional, but recommended for freshness. Equipment 9x13-inch baking dishLarge SkilletMixing BowlMicrowave Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil.In a large skillet, heat olive oil, sauté diced onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent, and then add minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 more minute.In a mixing bowl, combine sautéed mixture with shredded chicken, refried beans, corn, and cheese. Mix gently.Soften corn tortillas in the microwave for about 30 seconds until warm.Fill each tortilla with chicken mixture, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in the baking dish.Whisk together sour cream, heavy cream, and chicken broth in a separate bowl until smooth. Pour over enchiladas.Sprinkle remaining cheese on top, cover with foil, and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden. Remove foil in last 5 minutes for extra crispiness.Let the enchiladas rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven, then garnish with cilantro before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1enchiladaCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg NotesTortillas should be microwaved for better rolling. Customize fillings with your favorite vegetables or spices. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
