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This creamy white chicken enchilada skillet offers comfort food done right in just 30 minutes. Rotisserie chicken and Monterey Jack cheese come together inside tender tortillas then get baked with a luscious green chile sour cream sauce that’s rich and tangy without being heavy. It’s a crowd-pleasing dinner that balances creamy textures with a gentle spicy kick, perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a satisfying meal.
I first tried these when we were in a dinner dilemma after a long day and they disappeared so fast my family immediately put them in regular rotation
Ingredients
- Flour tortillas: soft and pliable for easy rolling or corn tortillas if you prefer an authentic texture
- Shredded rotisserie chicken: juicy and flavorful, freshly roasted chicken yields the best texture
- Monterey Jack cheese: melts beautifully with a mild flavor, shredding your own from a block helps with melting
- Butter: unsalted, forms the sauce base and lets you control seasoning
- All purpose flour: thickens the sauce, fresh flour avoids any off flavors
- Chicken broth: provides depth and richness, low sodium or homemade options are best
- Sour cream: adds tang and creaminess, full fat for a luscious sauce
- Diced green chilies: bring brightness and gentle heat, check for freshness and avoid damaged cans
- Cooking spray: keeps everything from sticking in the baking dish
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling:
- Mix shredded rotisserie chicken and one cup of Monterey Jack cheese in a medium bowl. Make sure the cheese is evenly distributed to add gooey pockets of melt throughout.
- Assemble the Enchiladas:
- Lay a tortilla flat and scoop some chicken and cheese filling in the center. Tuck in both sides and roll it snugly. Place each rolled tortilla seam side down in a greased 9 by 13 inch baking dish. Repeat until all filled.
- Make the Sauce Base:
- Melt butter over medium low heat in a skillet. Sprinkle in the flour while whisking constantly to form a smooth roux. Cook for about one minute to eliminate the raw flour taste and start building flavor.
- Build the Sauce:
- Turn the heat to low and slowly add in chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Keep stirring as the mixture heats and thickens, look for gentle bubbling indicating it is ready.
- Cool the Sauce:
- Remove the pan from the heat and let the sauce cool for a few minutes. This step is crucial to prevent the sour cream from curdling when added.
- Finish the Sauce:
- Stir in sour cream and diced green chilies gently until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Avoid boiling here to keep the sauce silky.
- Sauce and Top:
- Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken filled tortillas in the baking dish. Then sprinkle the remaining shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top for that perfect golden bubbly crust.
- Bake:
- Place the dish in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese melts and lightly browns at the edges while the sauce bubbles.
- Serve:
- Let the enchiladas rest a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with your favorite toppings like fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, or creamy avocado slices for brightness and added texture.
I am partial to the melted cheese top for its little golden bubbles and love how my kids argue over the crispiest corners this dish always feels like a celebration at our table
Storage Tips
Cool leftovers completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to four days. When reheating from the fridge, cover with foil to keep moisture in. For longer storage, freeze well wrapped in portions. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently to maintain creamy texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
No Monterey Jack cheese Simply swap with white cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper Jack for a little heat. Corn tortillas create a gluten free version that brings extra flavor. Greek yogurt can replace sour cream but expect a slightly tangier sauce. Use store bought rotisserie chicken for convenience or roast your own seasoned with salt and cumin for more depth.
Serving Suggestions
These enchiladas shine with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and a spoonful of salsa verde on top. A squeeze of fresh lime before serving really wakes up all the flavors. Pair with a crisp green salad, Mexican rice, or refried beans for a full meal.
This dish has become a go-to for busy nights and special occasions alike. I love hearing everyone debate over the best piece, usually the golden edges win every time.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of tortillas work best?
Both flour and corn tortillas are suitable. Flour tortillas offer softness and pliability, while corn tortillas provide additional flavor and sturdiness to hold the sauce.
- → Can I use leftover chicken instead of rotisserie?
Yes, any cooked and shredded chicken can be used. Rotisserie chicken adds extra tenderness and built-in seasoning, but leftovers work well too.
- → How can I ensure the sauce is smooth?
Whisk butter and flour thoroughly before adding chicken broth, cook until bubbly, and allow the sauce to cool before mixing in sour cream to avoid curdling.
- → Can these be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the rolled tortillas and sauce separately in the fridge, then combine and bake when ready for best results.
- → What toppings complement this dish?
Fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, avocado, or a squeeze of lime brighten the rich flavors and add freshness.