Ingredients
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon salted butter
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 4-ounce can roasted green chilis
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt, to taste
Filling
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups grated Monterrey jack cheese (divided)
- 12 fajita-size tortillas
Topping
- 2 cups grated Monterrey jack cheese (divided)
- Cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the enchiladas.
- Prepare Sauce Base: In a frying pan over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the finely chopped onions until they turn translucent, developing sweetness and flavor.
- Make Roux and Add Broth: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir to absorb moisture. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and free of any lumps.
- Add Seasoning and Cream: Stir in the cumin and roasted green chilis, then remove the pan from heat. Mix in the sour cream and add salt to taste, creating a creamy enchilada sauce.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Spread about 1 cup of the sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add moisture during baking.
- Mix Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with half of the grated Monterrey jack cheese (2 cups), ensuring an even distribution of cheese in the filling.
- Assemble Enchiladas: Scoop approximately 1/3 cup of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam side down in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
- Top Enchiladas: Pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas, then sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of grated cheese on top to create a melted cheesy crust.
- Bake: Bake the enchiladas uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Optional Broil: For a golden browned cheese topping, switch your oven to broil and continue baking for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the enchiladas from the oven, let them cool slightly, then garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a zesty finish. Serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute Monterrey jack cheese with a mild cheddar or a Mexican blend for a different flavor profile.
- Adjust the amount of green chilis based on your heat preference.
- Leftover enchiladas store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
- For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese.
- To make ahead, assemble the enchiladas and refrigerate covered for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican