White Sauce Chicken Enchiladas
Description
These White Sauce Chicken Enchiladas are a delightful twist on a classic dish, crafted specifically for those who prefer milder flavors without the fiery kick of green chilies or hot peppers. This recipe is a favorite among families, especially children, as it combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and gooey cheese in a way that is both comforting and satisfying. The careful balance of ingredients ensures that each bite is rich and flavorful, making it a perfect choice for family dinners. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight meal or something special for a gathering, these enchiladas are sure to impress.
Recipe Information
| Recipe Name | White Sauce Chicken Enchiladas |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 2 hours |
| Total Time | 2 hours 20 minutes |
| Recipe Category | Chicken |
| Recipe Servings | 6 servings |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5 from 2 reviews) |
| Calories per Serving | 939.2 |
| Nutritional Information | See table below |
Keywords
Poultry, Cheese, Meat, Mexican, Kid Friendly, Oven, < 4 Hours
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken legs | 6 |
| Chicken (shredded) | 3 cups |
| Carrots | 3, diced |
| Celery | 1 stalk, diced |
| Onion | 1, diced |
| Water | Enough to cover |
| Butter | 4 tablespoons |
| Flour | 3 tablespoons |
| Milk | 3 cups |
| Nutmeg | To taste |
| Flour tortillas | 12-14 |
| Cheddar cheese | 3 cups, shredded |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Fat | 57.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 27.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 241.1 mg |
| Sodium | 1036.5 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 48.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.5 g |
| Sugars | 4.3 g |
| Protein | 55.8 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables: Begin by placing the chicken legs and the diced vegetables—carrots, celery, and onion—into a large pot. Cover the ingredients with enough water to ensure they are fully submerged. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for approximately 1 hour, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
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Shred the Chicken: After cooking, carefully remove the chicken legs from the pot. Allow them to cool slightly before handling. Once cool enough to touch, remove the skin and shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
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Prepare the Stock: Strain the cooking liquid to remove the vegetables, retaining the flavorful chicken stock. Refrigerate the stock for a bit; once it cools, skim off any excess fat that rises to the top. Save the stock for future use, perhaps for soups or sauces.
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Make the White Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour, whisking constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually pour in the hot milk while continuing to whisk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook the mixture until it thickens slightly, which should take around 5–7 minutes. You want it to be creamy but not too thick. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a hint of nutmeg to taste.
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Combine Chicken with Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, take 1 cup of the prepared white sauce and combine it with the shredded chicken. This will infuse the chicken with flavor and moisture.
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Assemble the Enchiladas: Lay out the flour tortillas on a clean surface. Spoon a generous portion of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla, then roll them up tightly, placing the seam side down in a baking dish that has been lightly sprayed with cooking spray.
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Add the Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining white sauce evenly over the top of the rolled enchiladas, ensuring they are well-coated. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the sauce.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once preheated, place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the enchiladas are heated through.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked to perfection, remove the enchiladas from the oven and let them sit for a few minutes before serving. They can be garnished with fresh herbs or served with a side of sour cream, if desired. Enjoy this delicious, kid-friendly meal with your family!
These White Sauce Chicken Enchiladas are a crowd-pleaser, combining the hearty flavors of chicken and cheese with a comforting creamy sauce, perfect for any occasion where family and good food come together. Enjoy the cooking experience, and savor the delightful results!
