Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm tortilla filled with tender chicken, smothered in a creamy white sauce that dances across your taste buds. That’s the kind of magic we’re talking about when it comes to chicken enchiladas with white sauce. The moment you pull that bubbling dish from the oven, the aroma envelops your kitchen like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening.

This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience. Picture this: you invite friends over for dinner, and as they step inside, the savory scent of roasted chicken wafts through the air. Suddenly, everyone is hungry—and ready for some serious flavor! Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or a casual weekend gathering, chicken enchiladas with white sauce set the stage for delicious memories.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These chicken enchiladas are simple to prepare and bursting with flavor that will impress any crowd
- The creamy white sauce adds a rich depth that complements the tender chicken beautifully
- Visually appealing and comforting, they are perfect for any occasion—from family dinners to festive celebrations
- Plus, you can customize them easily based on dietary preferences or what you have on hand
I remember the first time I made these enchiladas; my family devoured them in seconds! My sister even asked if I had secretly switched professions to become a chef.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I use about 3-4 breasts depending on how many you’re feeding—more is always better!
- Tortillas: Flour tortillas work best here; they hold up well against the creamy filling.
- Cream Cheese: Adds that luscious creaminess we all love—use full-fat for maximum indulgence.
- Shredded Cheese: I prefer a mix of Monterey Jack and Cheddar for a delightful melty texture.
- Green Chiles: These little cans of joy bring just enough heat without overwhelming the palate.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness while adding moisture to the filling.
- Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Essential seasonings that elevate every bite—don’t skip these!
- Sour Cream: For tanginess and creaminess in both the filling and sauce; it’s essential!
- Fresh Cilantro (optional): A sprinkle on top adds freshness and color—totally Instagram-worthy!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Chicken: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté boneless chicken breasts until cooked through—about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown.
Prepare the Filling: Allow the chicken to cool slightly before shredding it using two forks. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken with cream cheese, green chiles, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the shredded cheese.
Assemble Enchiladas: Spread about half of your prepared white sauce across the bottom of a baking dish. Spoon generous portions of your filling onto each tortilla before rolling them up tightly—place seam-side down in your baking dish.
Create White Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter before whisking in flour until smooth. Gradually add chicken broth and sour cream while stirring constantly until thickened—it should coat the back of a spoon.
Add Final Touches and Bake: Pour remaining white sauce over assembled enchiladas and sprinkle with leftover cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes; uncover for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Enjoy every cheesy bite of these delightful chicken enchiladas with white sauce! Your friends will be asking you for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
Now that you’ve mastered this amazing recipe for chicken enchiladas with white sauce, get ready to show off your culinary skills at your next dinner party!
You Must Know
- Chicken enchiladas with white sauce are creamy, savory, and a crowd-pleaser
- The tender chicken wrapped in tortillas smothered with rich sauce will satisfy your taste buds
- Make sure to use freshly grated cheese for an extra layer of flavor and gooeyness
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic before adding chicken to enhance flavors. While the chicken cooks, prepare the sauce and tortillas; this method ensures everything is hot and ready simultaneously.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for shredded beef or even beans for a vegetarian option. You can also add diced jalapeños for an extra kick or fresh cilantro for brightness.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, maintaining that delicious creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly rolled enchiladas, soften tortillas in hot oil briefly to prevent tearing
- Use rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut without sacrificing flavor
- Don’t skip the cheese; it creates a heavenly crust on top!
When I first made chicken enchiladas with white sauce, my friends devoured them within minutes, begging for the secret recipe. Their enthusiasm convinced me I had stumbled upon something special!
FAQ
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Yes, flour tortillas work well but may alter the traditional flavor slightly.
What type of cheese is best for enchiladas?
A blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar provides great flavor and melting qualities.
How can I make it spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the white sauce for heat.

Delicious Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Chicken enchiladas with white sauce are a creamy, flavorful delight that transforms any meal into a special occasion. Enjoy tender chicken enveloped in tortillas and smothered in rich white sauce.
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Flour tortillas
- Cream cheese
- Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack and Cheddar)
- Green chiles
- Chicken broth
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sauté boneless chicken breasts in olive oil until cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Let cool, then shred.
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with cream cheese, green chiles, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the shredded cheese.
- Spread half of the prepared white sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in the dish.
- For the white sauce, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually add chicken broth and sour cream until thickened.
- Pour remaining white sauce over enchiladas and top with leftover cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes; uncover for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 enchilada (150g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg