You’re about to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to flavor town. These chicken enchiladas draped in a velvety sour cream white sauce are the epitome of comfort food with a twist. Let’s dive into the delicious details.
Why This Recipe Works
- The sour cream white sauce adds a rich, tangy dimension that elevates the dish beyond traditional enchiladas.
- Shredded chicken absorbs the flavors beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with taste.
- Baking the enchiladas melds the flavors together and gives the tortillas the perfect texture.
- It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit various dietary preferences and spice levels.
- Perfect for meal prep, these enchiladas taste even better the next day.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 8 flour tortillas
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Saucepan
Instructions
Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease your baking dish with olive oil. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, half of the Monterey Jack cheese, cilantro, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices.
Make the Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the sour cream and chicken broth until smooth. Heat the mixture until it’s warm but not boiling, about 3-4 minutes. This will be your luscious white sauce that blankets the enchiladas.
Assemble the Enchiladas
Lay out a tortilla and spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture down the center. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Bake to Perfection
Pour the white sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Serve and Enjoy
Let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional cilantro if desired. Dive into the creamy, cheesy goodness and savor every bite.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra kick, add a diced jalapeño to the chicken mixture or a dash of hot sauce to the white sauce. If you’re short on time, store-bought rotisserie chicken works wonderfully in this recipe. To prevent the tortillas from cracking, warm them slightly before rolling. For a crispier top, broil the enchiladas for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Always let the enchiladas rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the chicken for shredded beef or black beans for a vegetarian twist.
- Use corn tortillas instead of flour for a gluten-free version.
- Add a layer of refried beans inside the enchiladas for extra heartiness.
- Top with sliced avocados or a dollop of guacamole for a fresh contrast.
- Incorporate a can of green chiles into the sauce for a verde-inspired variation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the enchiladas and prepare the sauce, but wait to pour the sauce over until you’re ready to bake. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover enchiladas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until thoroughly warmed.
Can I freeze these enchiladas?
Yes, these enchiladas freeze well. Assemble and bake as directed, then cool completely before freezing. Wrap tightly in foil or place in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until warm throughout.
Summary
These chicken enchiladas with sour cream white sauce are a creamy, dreamy twist on a classic. Perfect for any night of the week, they’re sure to become a family favorite. With endless variations and make-ahead options, they’re as convenient as they are delicious.