Creamy Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving something irresistibly comforting and bursting with creamy, cheesy goodness, this Creamy Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce Recipe is bound to become your new favorite dinner go-to. Picture tender, shredded chicken wrapped in soft flour tortillas, smothered in a rich sour cream white sauce speckled with mild green chilies, and topped with melted Monterey Jack cheese for that perfect golden finish. Every bite offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Trust me, once you make these enchiladas, they’ll be a fixture in your meal rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might look simple, but together they build the creamy, cheesy, and tangy layers that make this dish shine. Each component contributes to the rich texture, robust flavor, and delightful color that bring the Creamy Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce Recipe to life.

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken: A tender, savory protein base that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Adds creamy meltiness with a mild, slightly buttery flavor perfect for topping and stuffing.
• 8-10 flour tortillas: Soft wraps that hold the filling together and create the perfect vessel for every bite.
• 3 tablespoons butter: Essential for creating the rich base of the white sauce.
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce to a luxurious, creamy consistency.
• 2 cups chicken broth: Brings depth and moisture to the sauce without overpowering the other flavors.
• 1 cup sour cream: The star ingredient in the sauce, delivering tang and creaminess that sets this recipe apart.
• 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies: Adds a gentle kick and bright, savory notes to keep the flavor interesting.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
• Cooking spray: Prevents sticking and helps the enchiladas bake evenly in the dish.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s perfectly hot when you’re ready to bake. Lightly spray your 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent the enchiladas from sticking and to help with a cleaner, easier cleanup later.

Step 2: Combine the Chicken and Cheese

Grab a large bowl and mix together the shredded chicken with 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese. This combination is what fills your tortillas, so aim for an even mixture that’s cheesy without overwhelming the chicken’s natural flavor.

Step 3: Roll the Enchiladas

Ladle about 2 to 3 tablespoons of your chicken and cheese filling onto each flour tortilla. Carefully roll each tortilla tight enough to hold the filling but not so tight that it tears. Place each rolled tortilla seam-side down in your prepared baking dish to keep them from unrolling during baking.

Step 4: Make the White Sauce Base

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour. Cook this mixture until it turns golden and bubbly, the classic roux that will thicken your sauce and add a subtle nuttiness perfectly complementing the creamy texture.

Step 5: Add Chicken Broth and Thicken

Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens smoothly and coats the back of a spoon. This velvety base is what makes these enchiladas truly indulgent.

Step 6: Stir in Sour Cream and Green Chilies

Remove the saucepan from the heat before mixing in the sour cream and diced green chilies. Stir gently until everything is combined and the sauce is creamy, tangy, with just a slight hint of spice that keeps your taste buds lively.

Step 7: Pour Sauce and Add Cheese

Pour the luscious sour cream white sauce evenly over your arranged enchiladas, making sure each tortilla gets coated. Then sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the top to create that golden, bubbly finish everyone loves.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, bubbling, and lightly golden around the edges. This step melds all the flavors together and creates that irresistible eating experience.

Step 9: Let Cool Slightly Before Serving

Once you take the enchiladas out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. This helps the sauce set a bit and makes serving easier, plus it lets all those flavors settle and get even better with every bite.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or chopped green onions adds a bright, fresh contrast to the rich, creamy enchiladas. A few slices of ripe avocado or a dollop of extra sour cream on top can create a luxurious mouthfeel every guest will appreciate. Don’t forget a wedge of lime on the side for those who enjoy a zesty kick!

Side Dishes

To round out your meal, serve these enchiladas alongside a fresh green salad with a citrusy dressing or classic Mexican rice. Refried beans or black beans make hearty accompaniments, balancing richness with earthy flavors. And if you’re feeling adventurous, a side of roasted corn with chili powder can elevate the experience even more.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting a party or just want to impress someone special, try serving the enchiladas on colorful plates or in individual mini baking dishes. You can also sprinkle some crumbled queso fresco or a drizzle of a mild salsa verde on top to add bursts of flavor and visual appeal. For a fun twist, create enchilada bowls by layering the ingredients without rolling the tortillas.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next-day meal just as satisfying as fresh.

Freezing

If you want to make this recipe ahead for busy nights, assemble the enchiladas but don’t bake them. Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, bake from frozen—just add extra baking time until heated through and bubbly.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to keep them moist, for about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave single portions, but baking preserves the creamy texture and melty cheese better.

FAQs

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Yes, you can swap in corn tortillas, but be gentle when rolling since they’re less pliable and can crack. Warming them before filling can help prevent breakage. The flavor will be a bit different but still delicious with this creamy sauce.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not at all! The diced green chilies add a mild, slightly smoky flavor without much heat, making this a great option for those who prefer gentle spice. You can always add jalapenos or hot sauce on the side if you want a kick.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, sautéed spinach, or a mix of beans for a hearty vegetarian version. The creamy sour cream white sauce still shines beautifully with veggies.

What kind of sour cream should I use?

Regular full-fat sour cream gives the richest flavor and best consistency for the sauce. You can use reduced-fat sour cream, but the sauce may be less creamy and tangy.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sour cream white sauce up to a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and rewarm gently on the stove before pouring it over the enchiladas to bake.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce Recipe is pure comfort food magic. It’s the kind of meal you’ll want to make again and again — whether for a cozy family dinner or to impress friends at your next gathering. The creamy sauce elevates the traditional enchilada into something special, and every cheesy, tender bite just feels like a warm, happy hug. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and dive into this deliciously satisfying recipe that’s sure to become a cherished favorite!

Print