Easy Made Creamy Chicken Enchiladas Recipe (with Video)

Craving a rich, flavorful twist on a classic? These Creamy Chicken Enchiladas with a velvety white sauce are a game-changer! Packed with tender chicken and topped with a creamy, cheesy sauce, this easy recipe is perfect for using leftover rotisserie chicken. Quick to make with simple ingredients, these Creamy Chicken Enchiladas will become a family favorite. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Luscious white sauce with a hint of green chilies.
• Quick and easy with pantry staples.
• Perfect for leftover chicken or a fresh batch.
• Cheesy, creamy goodness in every bite.
• Ideal for weeknights or gatherings.

Tools Needed

To make these Creamy Chicken Enchiladas, you’ll need a few kitchen essentials. Missing anything? Check out Our Shop for top-quality tools to simplify your cooking!

• Baking dish: For assembling and baking (Serious Eats guide to top dishes).
• Skillet: To whip up the creamy sauce.
• Mixing bowl: For seasoning the chicken filling.
• Spatula: To stir the sauce smoothly.
• Oven: For that golden, bubbly finish.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for these Creamy Chicken Enchiladas:

For the Filling

• 2.5 cups shredded chicken (cooked or rotisserie)
• ¼ tsp each salt and black pepper
• 1 tsp each cumin and chili powder
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

For the White Sauce

• 3 tbsp butter
• 1 cup finely diced onion
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 (6 oz) can green chilies (with juice)
• Salt to taste
• 3 tbsp cream cheese
• 1 cup sour cream

For Assembly

• 8 flour tortillas
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• ¼ cup shredded mozzarella (optional)

Directions

Follow these steps to make your Creamy Chicken Enchiladas:

1. Prep the Filling: In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese. Stir well.
2. Make the Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add onions and cook for 2 minutes. Stir in garlic for 1 minute, then add flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Slowly pour in chicken broth, stirring until simmering. Add green chilies and a pinch of salt. Simmer until thickened, then turn off heat. Stir in cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.
3. Assemble: Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread a few spoonfuls of sauce in a baking dish. Microwave tortillas for 15 seconds to soften. Add ½–¾ cup filling to each tortilla, roll up, and place seam-side down in the dish. Pour remaining sauce over top, then sprinkle with 1 cup Monterey Jack and mozzarella (if using).
4. Bake: Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes. Broil on low for 1 minute to brown the top. Rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Expert Tips for Perfect Creamy Chicken Enchiladas

• Add flour gradually to avoid lumps in the sauce.
• Don’t overfill tortillas—they’ll roll easier.
• Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning before assembling.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8 enchiladas
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the sauce: Simmer just until thickened.
• Skipping the rest: Hot enchiladas may fall apart.
• Using cold tortillas: Warm them for easier rolling.

Variations

Make these Creamy Chicken Enchiladas your own:

• Add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
• Swap Monterey Jack for cheddar or pepper jack.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked for up to 2 months; thaw and bake.

FAQs

1. Can I use leftover chicken?
   Yes, it’s perfect for this recipe!
2. What if I don’t have green chilies?
   Substitute with a splash of hot sauce or skip them.
3. Can I make the sauce ahead?
   Yes, refrigerate it for up to 2 days.
4. Why broil the top?
   It gives a golden, bubbly finish.
5. Can I use low-fat sour cream?
   Yes, but the sauce may be less creamy.

Conclusion

These Creamy Chicken Enchiladas are a creamy, cheesy delight that’s quick to make and impossible to resist. Top with green onions or cilantro, and enjoy a meal that’ll earn a spot on your regular rotation. Grab your kitchen essentials at Our Shop and give this recipe a try!