If you’re craving a comforting, creamy, and cheesy meal that comes together in just one pan, this White Chicken Enchilada Skillet Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. It perfectly balances tender shredded chicken with a velvety sauce, a slight kick from green chiles, and the irresistible gooeyness of melted Monterey Jack cheese. Every spoonful bursts with flavor and warmth, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or cozy weekends alike. Once you try this skillet, you’ll see why it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a staple to keep in your recipe box.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Whipping up this White Chicken Enchilada Skillet Recipe requires just a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building rich flavor, creamy texture, and that classic enchilada taste you love. From the sharpness of onions and garlic to the mild heat of chili powder and the comforting creaminess of sour cream and cheese, every element works together harmoniously.
- Olive oil: Perfect for sautéing onions and garlic to bring out their natural sweetness.
- Small onion (diced): Adds a subtle crunch and depth of flavor when cooked.
- Garlic cloves (minced): Gives a fragrant, savory lift essential to Mexican-inspired dishes.
- Cooked shredded chicken: The hearty protein base that makes this a satisfying main dish.
- Diced green chiles (4 oz can): Offers a mild, smoky heat without overpowering the dish.
- Ground cumin: Brings warm earthiness that complements the chicken perfectly.
- Chili powder: Adds a gentle kick and robust flavor for that authentic enchilada taste.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the overall flavor.
- Cream of chicken soup (10 oz can): Creates the creamy, comforting sauce base.
- Sour cream: Adds tang and luscious creaminess that makes the dish irresistibly rich.
- Milk: Lightens the sauce for creamy smoothness without heaviness.
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: The star cheesy ingredient; half melts into the sauce and half tops the dish for gooey perfection.
- Flour tortillas: Cut into bite-sized pieces, they soak up the sauce and add tender carbs.
- Fresh cilantro (chopped): Sprinkled on top for a burst of freshness and color.
How to Make White Chicken Enchilada Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent—about 3 to 4 minutes. Then add minced garlic and stir for just 30 seconds until it releases its aroma. This simple step builds the flavorful foundation your skillet needs.
Step 2: Combine the Chicken and Spices
Add your tender, cooked shredded chicken into the skillet along with the diced green chiles, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let the spices infuse the chicken, heating it through evenly for a few minutes. This is where the flavor magic starts to happen.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk until you have a smooth, luscious sauce. Pour this into the skillet with your seasoned chicken mixture and stir to combine. The sauce will start to coat the chicken and veggies, turning this dish into the creamy delight you’ve been dreaming of.
Step 4: Incorporate Cheese and Tortillas
Throw in one cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese, stirring until it’s melted completely. Then, gently fold in the bite-sized tortilla pieces—these will soak up the creamy sauce and become wonderfully tender. Let everything cook together for about 5 minutes until the tortillas are heated through and the mixture is evenly combined.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese Melt
Top off your skillet with the remaining half cup of shredded cheese and cover with a lid. Allow it to melt thoroughly, creating a golden, bubbly layer that’s just waiting to be devoured. Once melted, sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro on top for a bright finishing touch.
How to Serve White Chicken Enchilada Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
This dish shines with simple garnishes that add freshness and texture. After you’ve finished cooking, a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro brings vibrant color and a clean, herbaceous note that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, cheesy base. A dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of fresh lime juice can also bring brightness and balance to each bite.
Side Dishes
Pair this hearty White Chicken Enchilada Skillet Recipe with light, crispy sides to complement its creamy richness. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, Mexican street corn, or a simple serving of black beans works wonderfully. You might also enjoy it alongside some homemade guacamole or crunchy tortilla chips for added texture.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress at your next dinner, consider serving the skillet in mini cast iron pans for individual portions or layering it into small ramekins for a baked presentation. You can also add a colorful arrangement of sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, or pickled jalapeños on top to create a festive and inviting plate that’s as fun to look at as it is to eat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers of your White Chicken Enchilada Skillet Recipe to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners later on without sacrificing any of that creamy, cheesy goodness.
Freezing
This dish also freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. It will maintain its flavor and texture for up to 2 months. Simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for an easy meal anytime you want.
Reheating
To reheat, warm your White Chicken Enchilada Skillet Recipe gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. If using the stovetop, add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Heating slowly will help preserve the creamy texture and prevent the chicken from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that makes this White Chicken Enchilada Skillet Recipe even faster to prepare. Just shred it and add it in step 2 for perfectly tender and flavorful chicken.
Can I substitute sour cream with something else?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a great alternative if you prefer a lighter option or want to add a slight tang. Just use the same amount as sour cream for similar creaminess.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Simply swap out the flour tortillas for corn tortillas, which are naturally gluten-free. This substitution will still soak up all those delicious flavors beautifully.
Can I add vegetables to this skillet?
Of course! Chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach can be stirred in right before adding the sauce to bulk up the dish with extra nutrients and color.
How spicy is this White Chicken Enchilada Skillet Recipe?
This recipe features a mild heat level thanks to the diced green chiles and chili powder, making it kid-friendly and suitable for those who enjoy just a gentle hint of spice. Feel free to adjust seasoning according to your taste.
Final Thoughts
This White Chicken Enchilada Skillet Recipe is one of those magical dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or entertaining friends, it’s a satisfying, fuss-free meal you’ll want to make again and again. So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a deliciously easy dinner that feels special every time!
Print
White Chicken Enchilada Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This White Chicken Enchilada Skillet is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting one-pan meal that brings the flavors of Mexican-American cuisine right to your table. Featuring tender shredded chicken, diced green chiles, and a rich sauce made from cream of chicken soup and sour cream, this dish combines soft tortillas and melted Monterey Jack cheese for a deliciously easy skillet dinner perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Skillet Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 1 can (10 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
Other
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
- 6 small flour tortillas, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Chicken and Spices: Stir in the cooked shredded chicken, diced green chiles, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and heat the mixture through to meld the flavors.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Sauce and Cheese: Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the chicken mixture. Stir to combine evenly. Add 1 cup of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese and stir until the cheese melts and the mixture becomes creamy.
- Add Tortillas: Gently fold in the bite-sized tortilla pieces, stirring carefully until they are evenly coated with the sauce and heated through, about 5 minutes.
- Melt the Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese over the top, then cover the skillet with a lid until the cheese melts, creating a gooey, cheesy top layer.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the lid, garnish the skillet with chopped fresh cilantro, and serve the dish warm for a comforting, flavorful meal.
Notes
- This recipe is perfect for using leftover rotisserie chicken to save time and add flavor.
- You can substitute Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a tangier, healthier option.
- For a gluten-free version, use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas.
- Adjust the level of chili powder and cumin to suit your preferred spice level.
