Mexican Dinner Recipes: White Chicken Enchiladas & Authentic Favorites
Mexican Dinner Recipes: White Chicken Enchiladas & Authentic Favorites
Bring the vibrant flavors of Mexico to your dinner table with our collection of authentic Mexican recipes that are both delicious and easy to prepare. From the creamy comfort of white chicken enchiladas to the fiery satisfaction of chiles rellenos, these recipes will transport your taste buds south of the border without ever leaving your kitchen.
Mexican cuisine offers incredible variety and depth, featuring fresh ingredients, bold spices, and time-honored cooking techniques. Whether you’re craving the familiar comfort of quesadillas or looking to try something new like pollo loco, these recipes are perfect for busy weeknights or festive family gatherings.
White Chicken Enchiladas with Green Chili Sour Cream Sauce
Ingredients
- 8 flour tortillas (8-inch)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup sour cream
- 4 oz diced green chilies
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, 1/2 cup of Monterey Jack cheese, green chilies, and half of the cilantro. Season with cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Assemble the Enchiladas
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Warm tortillas slightly to make them pliable. Divide the chicken mixture evenly among the tortillas, placing the filling in the center. Roll each tortilla tightly and place seam-side down in a greased 9×13 baking dish.
Make the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together sour cream, chicken broth, and remaining spices. Pour the sauce evenly over the enchiladas, making sure they’re completely covered.
Bake to Perfection
Sprinkle remaining cheeses over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Expert Tips for Perfect Mexican Dinners
Choose Your Tortillas Wisely
For enchiladas, corn tortillas offer authentic flavor but flour tortillas are easier to work with. Warm tortillas slightly before filling to prevent cracking.
Balance Your Spices
Start with milder peppers and add heat gradually. Remember that flavors intensify during cooking, so taste as you go.
Prep Ahead
Many Mexican dishes can be assembled ahead and refrigerated. The flavors often improve after sitting, making them perfect for meal prep.
Quick FAQs
Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Add 5-10 minutes to baking time if coming straight from the refrigerator.
What’s the best way to shred chicken?
Use two forks or a stand mixer with the paddle attachment for perfectly shredded chicken in seconds.
Can I freeze leftover enchiladas?
Yes, they freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
White Chicken Enchiladas with Green Chili Sour Cream Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, 1/2 cup of Monterey Jack cheese, green chilies, and half of the cilantro. Season with cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Assemble the Enchiladas: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Warm tortillas slightly to make them pliable. Divide the chicken mixture evenly among the tortillas, placing the filling in the center. Roll each tortilla tightly and place seam-side down in a greased 9×13 baking dish.
- Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together sour cream, chicken broth, and remaining spices. Pour the sauce evenly over the enchiladas, making sure they’re completely covered.
- Bake to Perfection: Sprinkle remaining cheeses over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
