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Craving a tasty dinner that’s simple to make? You’re in the right place! My White Chicken Enchiladas recipe is not only delightful but also easy to whip up. Packed with flavor and creamy goodness, these enchiladas will impress everyone at your table. In this post, I’ll guide you through each step—from prepping ingredients to baking the perfect cheesy topping. Let’s make dinner something special tonight!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Creamy: The combination of cream cheese and sour cream creates a rich, creamy texture that makes every bite indulgent.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spices or add your favorite toppings to make it your own.
- Hearty and Satisfying: With protein-packed chicken and cheesy goodness, this dish is sure to satisfy your hunger.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
– 1 can (10 oz) diced green chilies, drained
– 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
– 8 small flour tortillas
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
– Sliced jalapeños (optional)
Key Ingredients Explained
Each ingredient plays a key role in the dish. The cooked chicken provides protein and flavor. Cream cheese makes the filling rich and creamy. Sour cream adds a tangy taste that balances the dish. Monterey Jack cheese melts well and gives a delicious cheesy layer. Diced green chilies add a mild heat and sweetness. Taco seasoning gives the filling a flavorful kick. Flour tortillas hold everything together. Chicken broth keeps the enchiladas moist while baking. Finally, olive oil helps blend the broth mixture.
Substitute Options for Dietary Needs
If you need alternatives, here are some options:
– Chicken: Use shredded turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option.
– Cream cheese: Try cashew cream or a dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan version.
– Sour cream: Greek yogurt works well and adds protein.
– Monterey Jack cheese: Use a dairy-free cheese or another melting cheese like cheddar.
– Flour tortillas: Corn tortillas are gluten-free and work great too.
– Taco seasoning: Make your own with chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder for a natural blend.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Equipment
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even cooking. While the oven heats, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and grease it lightly. This will help your enchiladas come out easily after baking.
Making the Chicken Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded chicken, 1 cup of softened cream cheese, and 1 cup of sour cream. Add 1 can of drained diced green chilies and 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning. Mix this well until it is creamy. Finally, stir in half of the 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese. This filling will give great flavor to your enchiladas.
Rolling and Filling the Tortillas
Next, take your tortillas. Warm each one in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on both sides. This makes them soft and easy to roll. Once warmed, spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Roll it up tightly and tuck in the sides. Place each rolled tortilla seam-side down in your greased baking dish. Repeat with all tortillas until you fill the dish.
Baking the Enchiladas
In a small saucepan, mix 1 cup of chicken broth with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Heat it over medium-low heat until warm. Pour this mixture evenly over the rolled enchiladas. Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack cheese on top. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Once done, let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro and jalapeños if you prefer spice. Enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
How to Keep Tortillas from Breaking
To keep your tortillas intact, warm them up first. Heat each tortilla in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on both sides. This makes them soft and easy to roll. If you skip this step, the tortillas may crack when you fill them. Always handle them gently to avoid breakage.
Ensuring Flavorful Filling
A great filling is key to tasty enchiladas. Mix shredded chicken with cream cheese, sour cream, and diced green chilies. Add taco seasoning for extra flavor. Don’t forget to use half of the Monterey Jack cheese in the filling. This makes it creamy and rich. For even more taste, use freshly cooked chicken instead of pre-cooked.
Perfecting the Cheesy Topping
For a perfect cheesy topping, sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the enchiladas before baking. This creates a bubbly, golden crust. If you want an extra kick, try mixing in some spicy cheese or adding sliced jalapeños on top. Baking the enchiladas uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes helps the cheese brown beautifully.
Pro Tips
- Make Ahead: Prepare the filling and roll the enchiladas a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator, then just add the broth and cheese before baking for a quick meal.
- Optimal Tortilla Texture: Warming the tortillas is crucial for flexibility. If they’re too cold, they may crack when rolling. Always keep them warm while you work.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to substitute Monterey Jack with other cheeses like Pepper Jack for a spicier flavor, or a blend of cheeses for a richer taste.
- Garnish Ideas: Besides cilantro and jalapeños, consider adding diced avocado or a squeeze of lime for a fresh, zesty finish to your enchiladas.

Variations
Vegetarian White Enchiladas
You can easily make a vegetarian version of these enchiladas. Instead of chicken, use black beans or grilled vegetables. Spinach, zucchini, and bell peppers work great. For the cheese, stick with Monterey Jack or try a creamy goat cheese. This option keeps the dish light and healthy while still being tasty.
Spicy Chicken Enchiladas with Jalapeños
If you love heat, add jalapeños to your enchiladas. Mix sliced jalapeños into the chicken filling. You can also sprinkle some on top before baking. For extra spice, use pepper jack cheese instead of Monterey Jack. This version brings a fiery kick that many will enjoy.
Using Different Cheeses
Feel free to mix and match cheeses for your enchiladas. While Monterey Jack is classic, you can use cheddar for a sharper taste. Cream cheese adds extra creaminess. Mixing cheeses can change the flavor profile. Experiment to find a blend you love. This flexibility makes the recipe fun and personal.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Enchiladas
To store leftover enchiladas, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. You can also wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. This keeps them fresh. Store the container in the fridge. They will last up to three days.
Reheating Tips for Best Results
When you’re ready to eat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the enchiladas in a baking dish. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep them moist. Cover the dish with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes. Check them until heated through. This method keeps them nice and cheesy.
Freezing Enchiladas for Later
If you want to freeze enchiladas, prepare them as usual. Instead of baking, cover the dish with foil. Place it in the freezer. They can stay there for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw them overnight in the fridge. Then follow the reheating tips mentioned above. Enjoy your tasty meal anytime!
FAQs
What is the best way to reheat enchiladas?
To reheat enchiladas, I suggest using the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the enchiladas in a baking dish. Cover them with foil to keep them moist. Heat for about 20 minutes. If you want a crispy top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes.
Can I make white chicken enchiladas ahead of time?
Yes, you can make white chicken enchiladas ahead of time. Prepare them up to the baking step. Cover the dish with foil and store it in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about 24 hours. When ready to cook, just bake them straight from the fridge. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What sides pair well with white chicken enchiladas?
White chicken enchiladas taste great with a few sides. Here are some ideas:
– Mexican rice: This adds a nice flavor and texture.
– Refried beans: They offer a creamy contrast.
– Guacamole: This adds freshness and creaminess.
– Corn salad: A simple salad with corn, lime, and cilantro can brighten the meal.
– Chips and salsa: Perfect for a crunchy side.
These sides complement the enchiladas and make a delightful meal.
This blog post covered all the steps to make tasty enchiladas. We explored the key ingredients, including helpful substitutes for different diets. The step-by-step guide made preparing the dish easy. I shared tips to keep tortillas whole and ensure a rich flavor. You can also try fun variations, like vegetarian or spicy options. Don’t forget how to store leftovers, reheat, and enjoy these meals later. With these insights, you can make your enchiladas perfect every time. Enjoy your cooking adventur
Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas
Delicious enchiladas filled with a creamy chicken mixture and topped with cheese.
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
- 1 can (10 oz) diced green chilies, drained
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 to taste fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 to taste sliced jalapeños (optional, for an added spicy kick)
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare it for baking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, sour cream, drained diced green chilies, taco seasoning, and half of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is creamy and uniform.
In a dry skillet over medium heat, warm each tortilla for about 30 seconds on both sides, until they are soft and pliable.
Take a warmed tortilla and spoon approximately 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture onto the center. Carefully roll it up, tucking in the sides as you go, and place the rolled tortilla seam-side down in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Repeat this step for all tortillas.
In a small saucepan, combine the chicken broth and olive oil. Heat over medium-low until warm, then stir to mix. Pour this mixture evenly over the rolled enchiladas in the baking dish.
Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top of the enchiladas.
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes.
After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden brown on top.
Once out of the oven, allow the enchiladas to cool for a few minutes. Just before serving, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños if you like a spicy kick.
Serve with extra sour cream and cilantro for garnish.
Keyword cheese, chicken, creamy, enchiladas
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