Introduction

Chicken enchiladas are a delightful twist on traditional Mexican fare, combining tender chicken wrapped in soft tortillas with a rich and creamy sauce. In this recipe, the sour cream white sauce elevates the dish by adding a refreshing tanginess that balances the flavors beautifully.

Enchiladas are versatile and can be customized with various fillings and toppings, but here, we focus on the comforting combination of shredded chicken and a luscious sauce. Perfect for family dinners or casual entertaining, this dish is sure to impress!

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
Using tender, shredded chicken gives these enchiladas a hearty filling. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your chicken from scratch. The flavor of the chicken will shine through, especially when seasoned well.
10 corn or flour tortillas
Tortillas are the foundation of any enchilada. Corn tortillas provide a traditional taste, while flour tortillas offer a softer, chewier texture. Choose based on your preference, keeping in mind that both work well in this recipe.
1 cup sour cream
Sour cream is the star of the white sauce. It adds a creamy richness and a tangy flavor that complements the chicken filling beautifully. This ingredient is essential for achieving the desired texture and taste.
1 cup chicken broth
Chicken broth enhances the sauce's flavor while keeping it moist. This liquid is crucial for creating the right consistency, allowing the sauce to coat the enchiladas without being too watery.
1 cup shredded cheese (such as Monterey Jack or cheddar)
Cheese brings creaminess and a comforting flavor to the dish. It pulls everything together, creating a gooey topping that melts beautifully in the oven.
1 tablespoon olive oil
Olive oil is used for sautéing ingredients, adding depth and a hint of fruitiness. It also helps prevent sticking when cooking the tortillas.
1 small onion, finely diced
Onions offer a savory base flavor and sweetness when cooked. They caramelize beautifully during sautéing, enhancing the overall taste of the sauce and filling.
2 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic adds aromatic flavor to the dish. Its robust flavor profile complements the chicken and enhances the overall richness of the sauce.
1 teaspoon cumin
Cumin brings warmth and earthiness to the enchiladas. This spice is a key flavor in Mexican cuisine, adding a touch of complexity that rounds out the dish.
1 teaspoon chili powder
Chili powder introduces subtle heat and depth to the dish. It's important to adjust this based on your preference for spice.
Salt and pepper, to taste
Seasoning is essential for enhancing the flavors of the chicken and sauce. Adjusting salt and pepper ensures the dish tastes well-balanced.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Preheating the oven is a vital step to ensure that your enchiladas cook evenly and thoroughly. This temperature is optimal for melting the cheese without overcooking the chicken.

Step 2: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent.

Sautéing the onions first draws out their natural sweetness and adds richness to the filling. This step allows them to soften, creating a flavorful base for the enchilada filling.

Step 3: Add minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the onions. Cook for another minute.

Garlic should be added after the onions to prevent burning. The spices will toast slightly in the residual heat, enhancing their flavors and infusing the dish with a warm aroma.

Step 4: Stir in the shredded chicken, then pour in half a cup of chicken broth. Mix until combined and heated through.

Combining the chicken with the onions and spices ensures even distribution of flavor. The addition of broth keeps the chicken moist, preventing it from drying out during baking.

Step 5: In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream with the remaining chicken broth until smooth. Reserve some for topping later.

Mixing the sour cream with broth creates a creamy sauce that adheres perfectly to the enchiladas. Ensuring it’s smooth will help avoid lumps in your final dish.

Step 6: Heat tortillas in a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side until pliable.

Warming the tortillas prevents them from cracking when filled. A soft tortilla will roll better and hold the filling without breaking apart.

Step 7: To assemble, spread a spoonful of the sour cream mixture on each tortilla, add chicken filling, and roll tightly. Place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.

Assembling enchiladas properly helps keep fillings secure and prevents spills during baking. The seam-side facing down ensures they don’t unravel, keeping your presentation tidy.

Step 8: Once all enchiladas are in the dish, pour the remaining sour cream sauce over them, and top with shredded cheese.

Coating the enchiladas with sauce keeps them moist and delicious while cooking. The cheese on top will melt and create a delightful, gooey layer.

Step 9: Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Baking the enchiladas allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to achieve that desirable meltiness. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking while ensuring the top is perfectly golden.

Step 10: Remove from the oven and let sit for a few minutes before serving to set the sauce slightly.

Letting the enchiladas rest after baking allows the sauce to thicken and makes them easier to serve. Cutting too soon can result in messy servings.

Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce step photo

Creamy Sauce Transformation

The sour cream white sauce is a pivotal element in these chicken enchiladas. Its rich and velvety texture envelops the tortillas, creating a contrast with the spiced chicken filling. A balance between tanginess and creaminess ensures each bite is satisfying, while the added chicken broth keeps the sauce from being too thick or overwhelming.

Elevating the Chicken Filling

The combination of sautéed onions, garlic, and spices infuses the chicken filling with deep, complex flavors. This aromatic blend not only enhances the chicken but also contributes to the overall flavor harmony of the dish. Adjusting the spices according to personal taste can make the filling even more delightful.

Layering for Maximum Flavor

Layering enchiladas with sauce, filling, and cheese creates a textural delight. Each layer interacts, lifting the simple ingredients into a cohesive dish. This technique not only impacts presentation but also ensures that every forkful is packed with flavor, thanks to the integrated moisture and heat during baking.

FAQs

What if my sour cream sauce is too thick?

If your sauce is thicker than desired, simply thin it out with a bit more chicken broth or water until you reach your preferred consistency.

Can I use other proteins besides chicken?

Yes, feel free to substitute with shredded beef, turkey, or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option.

What if my enchiladas are overcooked?

If overcooked, the filling may dry out. Ensure to check the baking time closely next time to keep the tortillas soft and the filling moist.

Can I add more vegetables to the filling?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, spinach, or black beans can be great additions for extra flavor and nutrition.

What type of cheese works best?

Monterey Jack is recommended for its meltability, but cheddar or a Mexican blend can add extra flavor as well.

Are there any tips for a smoother rolling process?

Make sure tortillas are heated enough to be pliable, and don’t overfill them. A clear filling edge will help keep them rolling nicely.

Conclusion

Making chicken enchiladas with sour cream white sauce is a gratifying experience that yields comforting and flavorful results. This recipe not only delivers on taste but also allows for creativity in its assembly and flavors.

Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, these enchiladas promise satisfaction with every bite. Enjoy crafting this delicious dish and delight your taste buds with its creamy, savory goodness!

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