Flavorful and satisfying, Skinny White Chicken Enchiladas are perfect for any dinner occasion. These enchiladas feature tender chicken wrapped in whole grain tortillas and drenched in a creamy, yet healthy sauce that will leave you craving more. They’re not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making them an ideal choice for weeknight meals or family gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier Option: With reduced-fat ingredients, these enchiladas offer a guilt-free indulgence without sacrificing flavor.
- Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 45 minutes, they make weeknight cooking simple and fast.
- Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and flavorful chicken make these enchiladas a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Versatile: Perfect for parties, dinner, or meal prep, these enchiladas can easily be customized with your favorite toppings.
- Satisfying Meal: Packed with protein and flavor, they’ll fill you up while keeping calories in check.
Tools and Preparation
To create delicious Skinny White Chicken Enchiladas, certain tools can make the process smoother. Having the right kitchen equipment will ensure your cooking experience is enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Large pot
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and makes it easy to serve straight from the oven.
- Large pot: Ideal for preparing the creamy sauce without splatter and allows for easy stirring.
- Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, ensuring there are no lumps in your sauce.
Ingredients
Flavorful chicken wrapped in whole grain tortillas and smothered in a creamy but healthy sauce that you’ll adore!
For the Filling
- 2 cups shredded chicken breast (cooked)
- 1 teaspoon cumin (divided)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 cup salsa (no sugar added, optional verde sauce)
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups chicken broth (fat-free)
- 4 ounces diced green chiles (can)
- 8 ounces sour cream (container, reduced-fat)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Assembly
- 8 whole grain flour tortillas (6-inch, optional corn tortillas)
- 1 1/2 cups Mexican style cheese (reduced-fat, shredded)
- 1/4 cup cilantro (finely chopped)
How to Make Skinny White Chicken Enchiladas
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures your enchiladas cook evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken breast with 1/2 teaspoon cumin, chili powder, and salsa.
- Evenly distribute the chicken mixture over the center of each tortilla.
- Roll up the tortillas tightly and place them seam side down in a greased 9 x 13-inch casserole pan. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter.
- Sprinkle in flour and cook for about 1 minute while stirring continuously.
- Slowly pour in chicken broth, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens (about 6 minutes).
- Add remaining cumin, 1 cup cheese, green chiles, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Stir until cheese melts completely.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the white sauce evenly over the enchiladas in the casserole dish.
- Sprinkle an additional 1/2 cup of cheese on top.
- Bake for approximately 25 minutes or until cheese is lightly golden brown.
- Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped cilantro over the enchiladas before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Skinny White Chicken Enchiladas!
How to Serve Skinny White Chicken Enchiladas
Skinny White Chicken Enchiladas are a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some creative serving suggestions.
Garnish with Fresh Ingredients
- Cilantro – A sprinkle of finely chopped cilantro adds a refreshing touch and enhances the flavor of the enchiladas.
- Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado slices offer a rich contrast to the chicken filling and can be served on top or alongside.
- Lime Wedges – A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens the dish and adds a zesty flavor.
Pair with Dips
- Guacamole – This classic dip pairs perfectly with enchiladas, providing creaminess and flavor balance.
- Salsa Verde – A tangy salsa verde can elevate your meal, adding extra moisture and zest to each bite.
- Greek Yogurt – Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier option that still offers creaminess.
Serve with Fresh Salads
- Mexican Street Corn Salad – This vibrant salad topped with cheese and lime is a great complement to the enchiladas.
- Simple Green Salad – A light green salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a vinaigrette makes for a refreshing side.
How to Perfect Skinny White Chicken Enchiladas
Creating the perfect Skinny White Chicken Enchiladas involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken – For convenience, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It saves time without sacrificing flavor.
- Adjust Spice Levels – Customize the heat by adjusting the chili powder quantity or adding fresh jalapeños to the filling.
- Experiment with Cheese – Mix different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for unique flavors while keeping it healthy.
- Don’t Overfill Tortillas – To prevent tearing, avoid overfilling your tortillas; just enough filling provides both taste and integrity.
Best Side Dishes for Skinny White Chicken Enchiladas
Adding complementary side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside Skinny White Chicken Enchiladas.
- Spanish Rice – Fluffy rice seasoned with spices that pairs well with the flavor-packed enchiladas.
- Black Bean Salad – A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, bell peppers, and lime dressing brings color and nutrition to your plate.
- Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn drizzled with lime is simple yet delicious as a side dish.
- Zucchini Fritters – These crispy fritters provide great texture and can be flavored with herbs for an extra kick.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender add depth and color to your meal.
- Quinoa Salad – A nutritious quinoa salad tossed with veggies makes for a wholesome partner to your enchiladas.
- Chips and Salsa – Crunchy tortilla chips served with salsa make for an easy appetizer before digging into the main course.
- Refried Beans – Creamy refried beans are traditional and offer additional protein alongside your enchiladas.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Skinny White Chicken Enchiladas can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out great.
- Using dry chicken: Ensure your chicken is moist and flavorful. Overcooking can result in dry meat, so use cooked chicken breast that’s juicy.
- Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season your filling adequately. Using insufficient spices can make your enchiladas bland. Adjust the cumin and chili powder to your taste.
- Not warming tortillas: Cold tortillas can crack when rolling. Warm them briefly in a skillet or microwave to make them pliable for easy rolling.
- Overfilling tortillas: Resist the urge to overstuff! Too much filling can cause the tortillas to break. Aim for about 1/4 cup of filling per tortilla.
- Underbaking the enchiladas: Make sure you bake until the cheese is golden and bubbly. This step ensures that everything is heated through and flavors meld together.
- Ignoring garnishes: Garnishing with fresh cilantro adds flavor and visual appeal. Don’t skip this step!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container.
- They will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Skinny White Chicken Enchiladas
- Wrap individual enchiladas tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- You can freeze them for up to 3 months.
Reheating Skinny White Chicken Enchiladas
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes or until hot, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or water in a skillet, cover, and heat on low until warm, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Skinny White Chicken Enchiladas.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! While this recipe calls for Mexican style cheese, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added flavor.
How do I make these enchiladas vegetarian?
You can substitute shredded chicken with black beans or sautéed vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian option.
Can I make Skinny White Chicken Enchiladas ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the enchiladas up to the baking step, cover them tightly, and refrigerate or freeze until you’re ready to bake.
What sides pair well with Skinny White Chicken Enchiladas?
Serve them with a fresh salad, black beans, or corn on the side for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
How do I customize the spice level?
Adjusting the amount of chili powder or adding diced jalapeños will enhance the spiciness. Taste as you go!
Final Thoughts
Skinny White Chicken Enchiladas are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize the fillings and toppings based on your preferences. Whether you stick closely to the recipe or add your own twist, this dish is sure to please family and friends alike. Give it a try!
Skinny White Chicken Enchiladas
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Skinny White Chicken Enchiladas, a nutritious twist on a classic Tex-Mex favorite. Wrapped in whole grain tortillas and smothered in a creamy, healthy sauce, these enchiladas are perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. With tender shredded chicken, reduced-fat cheese, and zesty spices, they deliver satisfaction without the guilt. Easy to prepare in just 45 minutes, this dish can be customized with your favorite toppings, making it a versatile option for any occasion. Enjoy a hearty meal that’s packed with protein and flavor while keeping calories in check.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded chicken breast (cooked)
- 1 teaspoon cumin (divided)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 cup salsa (no sugar added, optional verde sauce)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups chicken broth (fat-free)
- 4 ounces diced green chiles (can)
- 8 ounces sour cream (container, reduced-fat)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 whole grain flour tortillas (6-inch, optional corn tortillas)
- 1 1/2 cups Mexican style cheese (reduced-fat, shredded)
- 1/4 cup cilantro (finely chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with 1/2 teaspoon cumin, chili powder, and salsa. Fill each tortilla with the mixture and roll them tightly.
- In a pot, melt butter and whisk in flour; slowly add chicken broth until thickened. Stir in remaining cumin, cheese, green chiles, sour cream, salt, and pepper.
- Pour sauce over rolled enchiladas in a greased baking dish. Top with extra cheese and bake for 25 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 55mg