White Chicken Enchilada Skillet

Introduction:

Dive into the vibrant world of Mexican cuisine with our irresistible White Chicken Enchilada Skillet recipe. This one-pan wonder combines tender chicken, creamy white sauce, gooey cheese, and zesty green chilies for a flavor-packed meal that’s sure to impress. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this skillet dish is quick to prepare and requires minimal cleanup. Let’s explore how to whip up this mouthwatering masterpiece in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies, drained

1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste
1 (10 oz) can green enchilada sauce
1 cup sour cream

1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Sliced green onions, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add diced chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

2. Saute the Aromatics:

In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

3. Prepare the Sauce:

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.

Add diced green chilies, ground cumin, chili powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Pour green enchilada sauce over the chicken mixture and stir to coat evenly.

4. Add Creamy Goodness:

Stir in sour cream until well combined with the chicken mixture.
Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese and shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

5. Simmer and Serve:

Reduce heat to low and cover the skillet. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with chopped cilantro and sliced green onions before serving.

Benefits of White Chicken Enchilada Skillet: This skillet recipe offers a convenient way to enjoy the flavors of classic chicken enchiladas without the hassle of rolling tortillas. The one-pan cooking method makes cleanup a breeze, while the combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and melted cheese creates a comforting and satisfying meal.

Serving Tips:

Garnish Creatively: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or diced tomatoes on top for added freshness and flavor.
Accompaniments: Serve with sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a crisp green salad to make it a complete meal.
Toppings Bar: Set up a toppings bar with shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, and salsa so everyone can customize their enchiladas to their liking.

Warm Tortillas: Warm up some corn or flour tortillas and serve them alongside the skillet for scooping up the delicious chicken and sauce.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Allow the skillet to cool to room temperature before transferring leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: White Chicken Enchilada Skillet can be frozen, but the texture of the sauce may change slightly upon thawing. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat larger portions on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated to your liking, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Refreshing: Add a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating to help restore some moisture to the sauce if it thickens too much during storage.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your White Chicken Enchilada Skillet stays fresh, flavorful, and enjoyable for as long as possible!

variations of the White Chicken Enchilada Skillet recipe:

Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with black beans, corn, and diced bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian option. You can also add diced zucchini or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Seafood Twist: Substitute the chicken with cooked shrimp or chunks of white fish such as cod or tilapia. Add seafood-friendly spices like cumin and smoked paprika, and top with chopped fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for a zesty finish.

Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños or green chilies to the skillet along with the onions and garlic. You can also stir in some chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy flavor.
Cheese Lover’s Delight: Double up on the cheese by mixing shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese into the sauce as well as sprinkling it on top before baking. For an extra indulgent twist, add a layer of cream cheese or queso fresco to the skillet before adding the sauce.
Tex-Mex Fusion: Incorporate ingredients like chorizo sausage, diced green chilies, and a blend of Mexican spices such as chili powder, cumin, and oregano for a Tex-Mex twist on the classic recipe.

Healthy Variation: Use Greek yogurt or a light cream cheese instead of sour cream to reduce the fat content. You can also increase the vegetable content by adding more bell peppers, onions, and spinach to the skillet.
Gluten-Free Option: Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas to make the dish gluten-free. Ensure that all other ingredients, including the chicken broth and spices, are also gluten-free.
Creamy Avocado Sauce: Instead of the traditional white sauce, blend together ripe avocados, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, and a splash of chicken broth to create a creamy avocado sauce to pour over the skillet before baking.

These variations offer a range of flavors and dietary options to suit different tastes and preferences. Feel free to get creative and customize the recipe to your liking!

FAQs:

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the skillet ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
- Absolutely! Using pre-cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken, can save you time. Simply shred or chop the chicken and add it to the skillet during the assembly process.
Can I make this recipe without dairy?
- Yes, you can make dairy-free substitutions such as using a dairy-free sour cream alternative or omitting the cheese altogether. You can also use a plant-based milk or broth to create the sauce.
Can I freeze leftovers?
- Yes, you can freeze leftover White Chicken Enchilada Skillet. Transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I serve with this dish?
- This skillet pairs well with a variety of sides such as Mexican rice, refried beans, guacamole, or a simple green salad. Warm tortillas or tortilla chips also make excellent accompaniments.
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
- Yes, you can use corn tortillas if you prefer or if you’re looking to make the dish gluten-free. Corn tortillas will add a slightly different texture and flavor to the dish but will still work well.
How do I know when the skillet is done baking?
- The skillet is done baking when the sauce is bubbling around the edges and the cheese is melted and golden brown on top. You can also insert a knife into the center to ensure that the filling is heated through.

Can I adjust the level of spiciness?
- Yes, you can adjust the spiciness of the dish by adding more or less green chilies, jalapeños, or chili powder according to your taste preferences. You can also use mild or hot salsa depending on your spice tolerance.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
- Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker by layering the ingredients in the crockpot and cooking on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until heated through and bubbly.
How do I reheat leftovers?
- Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to the skillet while reheating to help prevent the sauce from drying out.

These FAQs should address common questions and concerns about making, storing, and serving White Chicken Enchilada Skillet. If you have any other inquiries, feel free to ask!

Conclusion:

Elevate your dinner game with our White Chicken Enchilada Skillet recipe. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this flavor-packed dish is sure to hit the spot. With its simple preparation and delicious results, it’s no wonder this skillet recipe is a favorite among busy cooks everywhere. So grab your skillet and get ready to savor every bite of this irresistible Mexican-inspired creation!