How to Make the BEST White Chicken Enchilada Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, creamy, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect year-round, you’ll love this white chicken enchilada recipe. Packed with tender chicken, melty cheese, and a luscious white sauce, these enchiladas offer a delicious twist on a Tex-Mex classic.

I first fell in love with white enchiladas at a small family-run restaurant during a rainy afternoon. They were creamy, cheesy, and utterly unforgettable. Today, I’m sharing the ultimate homemade version that’s perfect for cozy family dinners, special gatherings, or meal prepping for the week.

White Chicken Enchiladas recipe

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Filling:

  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup green chiles (canned, mild or hot)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the White Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

Assembly:

  • 8–10 flour tortillas
  • Additional cheese for topping
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Want to learn how to cook juicy shredded chicken perfectly every time? Check out this easy shredded chicken recipe that works great for enchiladas!

White Chicken Enchiladas recipe

🔥 How to Make White Chicken Enchiladas: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a little olive oil.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Monterey Jack cheese, sour cream, green chiles, garlic powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Mix until everything is evenly coated and creamy.

Step 3: Make the White Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to create a roux.
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
Remove from heat, then stir in the sour cream and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth.

For a deeper flavor, you can use homemade chicken broth — check out how to make simple, rich chicken broth easily at home!

Step 4: Assemble the Enchiladas

Spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture into the center of each tortilla.
Roll up tightly and place seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
Repeat until all tortillas are filled.

Pour the white sauce evenly over the enchiladas, making sure they’re completely covered.
Top generously with extra cheese.

Step 5: Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Then uncover and bake an additional 10 minutes or until bubbly and lightly golden on top.

Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired, and serve hot!


🌟 Why You’ll Love This White Chicken Enchilada Recipe

  • Creamy Comfort: The luscious sour cream sauce is silky and rich without being heavy.
  • Easy to Customize: Swap cheeses, add veggies, or spice it up with jalapeños.
  • Perfect Make-Ahead Meal: Assemble, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
  • Family-Friendly: Mild enough for kids, delicious enough for adults.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Make a double batch and freeze one for later!

Love comfort foods like this? Don’t miss our Creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake—it’s just as rich and satisfying!


🍴 Serving Ideas for White Chicken Enchiladas

To turn this dish into a full meal, here are some mouthwatering sides:


🧊 Storing, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Storing:
Place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing:
Wrap individual enchiladas tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:

  • In the oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through (about 20 minutes).
  • In the microwave: Reheat individual portions on medium power for best results.

🔥 Variations You’ll Love

  • Green Chili White Enchiladas: Stir in extra green chiles into the sauce for a spicier kick.
  • Vegetarian White Enchiladas: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or black beans.
  • Loaded Enchiladas: Add sautéed onions, peppers, or corn to the filling.
  • Cheese Swap: Try pepper jack for spice or mozzarella for an ultra-creamy melt.

Looking for even more cozy, hearty dishes? Explore our best comfort food recipes collection!


❓ White Chicken Enchilada Recipe FAQ

Q: Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Yes! Just warm them up first to prevent cracking when you roll them.

Q: How can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tortillas and substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend when making the roux.

Q: Is there a way to make it lighter?
Use light sour cream and reduced-fat cheese to lighten the dish without losing creaminess.

Q: Can I assemble these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare up to a day in advance, store covered in the fridge, and bake when ready.


🥄 Conclusion

How to Make the BEST White Chicken Enchilada Recipe Creamy, cheesy, and endlessly satisfying, this white chicken enchilada recipe brings comfort and flavor together in the best way. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, meal prepping for a busy week, or simply craving something cozy and delicious, these enchiladas will hit the spot.

Don’t forget—you can make them your own with extra veggies, different cheeses, or a little heat. Once you try them, they’re sure to become a staple on your dinner table!

For even more Tex-Mex favorites, be sure to explore our Mexican-Inspired Dinner Recipes!

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