Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas with Creamy Sauce is a delightful and satisfying dish that blends the rich flavors of melted cheese, tender shredded chicken, and a luscious, creamy sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this dish combines Mexican flair with comforting ingredients. The creamy sauce, with a hint of green chilies, adds a burst of flavor while remaining mild enough for everyone to enjoy. Whether you like to keep things traditional or add your own twist, cheesy chicken enchiladas are a versatile and popular choice that can be customized to fit any taste.

One of the reasons this dish is a favorite is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home. Plus, it’s easy to adapt by using rotisserie chicken or opting for corn tortillas for a gluten-free version. Traditional red sauce enchiladas are another popular option if you’re looking for a more classic take, but the creamy version brings its own unique twist.

Ingredients Overview

Here are the essential ingredients you’ll need to make these cheesy chicken enchiladas with creamy sauce:

• Shredded chicken: You can use roasted, boiled, or store-bought rotisserie chicken for ease.
• Tortillas: Flour tortillas are common, but you can also use corn tortillas if preferred.
• Monterey Jack cheese: This mild cheese melts beautifully, but you can substitute it with Pepper Jack for a spicier kick.
• Sour cream: This is essential for the creamy sauce, but Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute if you’re looking for a healthier option.
• Green chilies: They add a subtle spice without overpowering the dish. You can omit these if you want a milder flavor.
• Butter and flour: Used to thicken the sauce.
• Chicken broth: Adds richness and depth to the sauce.

For those looking to lighten up the recipe, you can switch out sour cream with plain Greek yogurt and opt for whole wheat or corn tortillas. If you prefer a more classic flavor, consider making a red sauce version or serving with slow cooker refried beans for a more authentic meal.

Tips for Choosing the Best Ingredients

1. Chicken: Using a rotisserie chicken is not only convenient but also adds extra flavor due to its slow-cooked seasoning. If you prefer to roast or boil your chicken, season it generously to enhance the overall taste of the enchiladas.
2. Cheese: Choose a cheese that melts well. While Monterey Jack is traditional, Pepper Jack or a Mexican cheese blend can add depth and spice to your enchiladas.
3. Tortillas: If you’re looking for gluten-free options, corn tortillas are a great alternative to flour. Just make sure to heat them up before rolling to prevent tearing.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions for Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas with Creamy Sauce

Preparing the Chicken

To make the best cheesy chicken enchiladas, start by preparing the chicken. There are several ways to do this:

• Roasting: Drizzle chicken breasts with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 30-40 minutes. Let the chicken cool, then shred with two forks.
• Boiling: Boil chicken breasts in salted water for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked, then shred.
• Rotisserie chicken: For convenience, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It’s flavorful and saves time in the kitchen, perfect for a quick meal.

For more shredded chicken ideas, check out this recipe for white chicken enchiladas for two.

Making the Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce is what sets these enchiladas apart. Follow these steps to make it:

1. Melt butter: In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add flour: Whisk in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and let it cook for about a minute, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
3. Add chicken broth: Gradually whisk in 2 cups of chicken broth until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken.
4. Stir in sour cream: Remove the pan from heat and stir in 1 cup of sour cream, ensuring it’s fully blended.
5. Add green chilies: Toss in a 4-ounce can of diced green chilies (undrained) to give the sauce a subtle kick. If you prefer a milder sauce, you can omit the chilies.

Make sure not to let the sauce boil once the sour cream is added, as it can curdle. Keep it warm until you’re ready to assemble the enchiladas.

Assembling the Enchiladas

Once your chicken and sauce are ready, it’s time to assemble:

• Lay out your flour tortillas and spoon a generous amount of shredded chicken down the center of each one.
• Sprinkle a layer of Monterey Jack cheese over the chicken. You can substitute with Pepper Jack for extra spice.
• Roll each tortilla tightly and place them seam-side down in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Once all the tortillas are arranged, pour the creamy sauce evenly over the top, covering the enchiladas completely.

Baking the Enchiladas

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the enchiladas for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For an extra golden top, switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro or sliced avocado for a flavorful finish.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas

Achieving perfection with your cheesy chicken enchiladas comes down to a few key techniques. Follow these pro tips to ensure your enchiladas turn out creamy, flavorful, and perfectly rolled every time.

Getting the Perfect Creamy Texture for the Sauce

The creamy sauce is the heart of this recipe. To get a smooth and velvety texture, make sure you:

• Whisk the butter and flour continuously when creating the roux to avoid lumps.
• Add chicken broth slowly, whisking constantly to maintain a silky consistency.
• When adding the sour cream, remove the pan from the heat to prevent it from curdling. Avoid bringing the sauce to a boil after the sour cream is mixed in.

These steps will ensure the sauce is rich and smooth. If you want more details on variations, consider checking out this recipe for traditional red sauce enchiladas.

Preventing Tortillas from Breaking

To avoid tearing the tortillas when rolling:

• Warm the tortillas slightly before rolling by microwaving them for 20-30 seconds. This softens them and prevents cracks.
• If using corn tortillas, heat them individually in a dry skillet or lightly coat them with oil to make them pliable.

Adding Spices and Extra Flavor

For those who like a little extra heat, using Pepper Jack cheese instead of Monterey Jack adds a delicious kick. You can also sprinkle in spices like cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika for a deeper, more robust flavor. Experiment with seasonings to make the dish your own!

Customization Ideas for Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas

One of the best things about cheesy chicken enchiladas is their versatility. Whether you prefer them spicy, vegetarian, or healthier, this dish can be easily customized to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Below are some great ways to modify this recipe.

Spicy vs. Mild Variations

For those who love a bit of heat, there are plenty of ways to make your enchiladas spicier:

• Swap out Monterey Jack cheese for Pepper Jack cheese to add a subtle, spicy kick.
• Add chili powder, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce or directly into the chicken filling.
• Include jalapeños or spicy green chilies in the sauce for an extra fiery flavor.

On the other hand, if you prefer a mild version, stick with the classic Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese and omit any spicy elements like chilies or hot sauce. You can also serve with sour cream to cool down the dish.

Vegetarian Options

For a meatless version of cheesy enchiladas, swap the chicken for hearty fillings like:

• Black beans, pinto beans, or refried beans to create a satisfying vegetarian option.
• Add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms as the primary filling. You can sauté these veggies to bring out their flavors before rolling them in the tortillas.

How to Make It Healthier

To make this dish healthier, you can:

• Use low-carb tortillas or whole wheat tortillas instead of traditional flour tortillas.
• Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-packed sauce.
• Opt for a reduced-fat cheese or use less cheese without sacrificing the creamy texture.

These simple changes can make your favorite cheesy chicken enchiladas a little lighter without compromising on flavor!

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

When serving cheesy chicken enchiladas with creamy sauce, complement them with flavorful and traditional sides to enhance your meal. Some great options include:

• Mexican rice: A classic side that pairs perfectly with the rich, cheesy enchiladas.
• Refried beans: Serve with your enchiladas for an authentic touch. You can also make healthier slow cooker refried beans for added convenience.
• Corn salad: A refreshing and colorful side that balances the creaminess of the enchiladas. Toss fresh corn, tomatoes, cilantro, and lime juice together for a vibrant dish.

For drinks, consider pairing enchiladas with:

• Margaritas: The citrusy flavor of a classic margarita complements the richness of the enchiladas.
• Non-alcoholic options: Serve chilled agua fresca or sparkling water with lime for a refreshing contrast to the dish.

How to Store and Reheat

Cheesy chicken enchiladas store well, making them perfect for meal prep.

• Refrigeration: Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover the dish well to preserve the sauce’s creamy texture.
• Freezing: To freeze, assemble the enchiladas without baking, then wrap the entire dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight.

Reheating Tips:

• Microwave: Heat individual servings for 1-2 minutes, checking to ensure even warming.
• Oven: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, ensuring the cheese stays bubbly and the tortillas remain soft.

FAQs

What is the best way to prepare shredded chicken?

The easiest way to prepare shredded chicken is by using rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor. Alternatively, you can roast chicken breasts at 400°F for 30-40 minutes, then shred. Boiling chicken in salted water for 15-20 minutes also works well for quicker prep.

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Yes! You can definitely use corn tortillas if you prefer a gluten-free option. However, corn tortillas are more delicate and prone to tearing. To prevent this, warm them up in a skillet or microwave before rolling to make them more pliable.

How do I prevent my tortillas from breaking when rolling?

Warm your tortillas before rolling to make them softer and less likely to break. If using corn tortillas, heating them individually in a dry skillet or lightly steaming them will help keep them intact.

How long can I store the enchiladas in the freezer?

You can freeze cheesy chicken enchiladas for up to 3 months. Be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. When ready to eat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and bake as usual.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be prepped ahead of time. Assemble the enchiladas, cover them tightly, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, follow the same instructions, but add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

Cheesy chicken enchiladas with creamy sauce are the perfect combination of rich, cheesy flavors and a smooth, indulgent sauce. The dish’s versatility allows for endless customization, whether you want a spicier version or a healthier twist. With easy-to-follow steps and adaptable ingredients, these enchiladas make for an ideal weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests at a gathering. Whether you enjoy them with slow cooker refried beans or as part of a Mexican-inspired feast, they are sure to be a hit at your table!