Description
Discover the ultimate guide to making perfect sour cream chicken enchiladas with tips, recipes, and delicious side dish ideas.
Ingredients
Ingredients List
- Chicken breasts (1 lb): Cooked and shredded.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): For cooking the chicken.
- Ground cumin (1 tbsp): Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
- Flour tortillas (8-10): Soft and pliable, perfect for rolling.
- Colby Jack cheese (2 cups, divided): Shredded, for filling and topping.
- Butter (4 tbsp): Base for the roux.
- Flour (4 tbsp): Thickening agent for the sauce.
- Chicken broth (2 cups): Adds depth to the sauce.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Key ingredient for the creamy sauce.
- Diced green chilies or jalapenos (4 oz): Adds a bit of heat and flavor.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (or 400°F as your recipe indicates) to ensure even cooking.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9x13 inch dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Cooking the Chicken
- Season and Cook: Season chicken breasts with ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook them in olive oil over medium heat until fully cooked. This method ensures the chicken remains tender and flavorful.
- Shred the Chicken: Use forks to shred the chicken into small pieces. Shredding allows the chicken to mix well with the other ingredients and ensures each bite is packed with flavor.
Making the Sauce
- Create the Roux: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth. This step is crucial for thickening the sauce and giving it a rich texture.
- Add Chicken Broth: Gradually add chicken broth, whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth and thickened. Consistent whisking prevents lumps and creates a silky sauce.
- Incorporate Sour Cream and Chilies: Remove from heat and stir in sour cream and diced green chilies. This combination adds a creamy texture and a slight kick to the sauce.
Assembling the Enchiladas
- Fill the Tortillas: Place a portion of shredded chicken and some Colby Jack cheese in the center of each tortilla. This ensures each enchilada is packed with flavor.
- Roll and Place: Roll up each tortilla and place seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. This method keeps the tortillas from unrolling and helps them stay intact while baking.
- Pour the Sauce: Pour the sour cream sauce over the rolled tortillas, ensuring they are fully covered. Fully covering the enchiladas with sauce prevents them from drying out in the oven.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top. Adding cheese on top creates a delicious, melty crust.
Baking the Enchiladas
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Baking at the correct temperature ensures the enchiladas are heated through and the cheese is perfectly melted.
- Serve: Let the enchiladas cool slightly before serving. This step makes it easier to serve and enjoy the enchiladas without burning your mouth.
Notes
Tips & Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly shredded cheese and cooked chicken enhance the flavor and texture of your enchiladas. Fresh ingredients also provide better nutritional value.
- Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of green chilies or adding hot sauce. This ensures the dish meets your flavor preferences.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a variety of sides like Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh salad to create a balanced meal. For more ideas, check out our Side Dish Recommendations.