Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce: A Tex-Mex Comfort Classic
Chicken enchiladas are one of those cozy, delicious meals that feel like a warm hug on a plate. When topped with a creamy sour cream white sauce, they transform into a luscious Tex-Mex delight that’s perfect for any occasion.
Table of Contents
Whether you’re searching for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for potlucks, these enchiladas deliver both flavor and comfort in every bite.

Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce
Equipment
- baking dish
- saucepan for preparing sauce
- whisk
- mixing bowl
- spoon or ladle
- knife and cutting board for garnishes
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie recommended)
- 8 flour tortillas
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional, for garnish)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and simmer until thickened.
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken with half of the shredded cheese and half of the green chiles. Set aside for filling.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and simmer until thickened.
- Remove sauce from heat and stir in sour cream and remaining green chiles until smooth and creamy.
- Spoon chicken filling onto each tortilla, roll up tightly, and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Pour sour cream sauce evenly over enchiladas and sprinkle with remaining shredded cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until sauce is bubbly and cheese is golden brown.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with diced tomatoes and fresh cilantro if desired.
Notes
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce
- Rich, creamy flavor: The sour cream white sauce creates a velvety layer over the enchiladas that’s irresistible.
- Simple and approachable: Made with pantry staples like chicken broth and shredded cheese, this recipe is straightforward enough for beginners.
- Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients or add toppings to tweak the flavor to your liking.
- Great make-ahead option: Prepare and assemble ahead of time, then bake when you’re ready.
- Feeds a crowd: Eight enchiladas serve a family dinner or a friendly gathering perfectly.

Ingredients for Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce You’ll Need
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut)
- 8 flour tortillas (soft and pliable for rolling)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth (low sodium recommended)
- 1 cup sour cream (full-fat adds best creaminess)
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles (mild or hot, based on preference)
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or a blend with mozzarella for extra melt)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional, for a fresh topping)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and prepare: Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to keep your enchiladas from sticking.
- Mix the filling: Combine the shredded chicken with half the shredded cheese and half the green chiles in a mixing bowl. This mixture forms the flavorful core of your enchiladas.
- Make the sauce: Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it becomes a light roux. Slowly add chicken broth while whisking, letting the sauce simmer and thicken.
- Add cream and chiles: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the sour cream along with the remaining green chiles until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble enchiladas: Spoon the chicken mixture evenly onto each flour tortilla, roll them up, and place seam-side down snugly in the baking dish.
- Top with sauce and cheese: Pour the sour cream white sauce evenly over the rolled enchiladas, then sprinkle with the remaining shredded cheese.
- Bake: Place the dish uncovered in the oven for 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbly sauce and golden cheese on top.
- Garnish and serve: Optional diced tomatoes and fresh cilantro add a bright contrast. Let the enchiladas rest for 5 minutes before serving so the sauce settles and flavors blend.
Prep and Cook Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 8 enchiladas
Tips for Storage, Freezing, and Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Enchiladas freeze well. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwave reheating for best texture.
Serving Suggestions and Garnishes
These enchiladas pair well with classic Tex-Mex sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a crisp green salad. Add guacamole or a dollop of extra sour cream on top for more indulgence.
Flavor Variations and Add-Ons
For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or swap green chiles for a hotter variety.
Stir in black beans or corn for extra texture and nutrition.
Use whole wheat or corn tortillas for a different texture.
Sprinkle with crumbled cotija cheese or shredded cheddar to mix up the cheese profile.
A Slice of Tex-Mex Tradition
Enchiladas are a beloved dish rooted deeply in Mexican cuisine, adapted in many regions of the U.S. with a Tex-Mex twist. The creamy white sauce in this recipe is a comforting variation that softens the usual tomato red sauce, offering a milder but richly satisfying taste.
