Easy One-Pan White Chicken Enchilada Skillet: Your 20-Minute Weeknight Mexican Fiesta!
This white chicken enchilada skillet reimagines the beloved traditional Mexican dish into a convenient, one-pan, stove-top sensation! Best of all, it’s incredibly quick, transforming a complex meal into a delicious dinner that’s ready in just 20 minutes.
There’s something universally appealing about Mexican cuisine, and for many, it holds a special place in their hearts (and stomachs!). From vibrant salsas to hearty tacos, the flavors are simply irresistible. If you’re anything like me, you’re constantly seeking new Mexican dinner ideas to add to your rotation. Among the many classics, enchiladas often top the list. While traditional Chicken Enchiladas are a family favorite, the process of filling, rolling, and baking can be quite time-consuming, especially after a long and busy day.
That’s where the magic of one-pan meals truly shines. They are the ultimate solution for those hectic evenings when you crave a homemade, flavorful dinner but are pressed for time. This ingenious white chicken enchilada skillet recipe takes all the delicious components of classic white chicken enchiladas – tender chicken, creamy sauce, soft tortillas, and melty cheese – and brings them together in a single pan on your stove-top. No lengthy baking, no multiple dishes to wash, just pure, unadulterated comfort food in a fraction of the time. You’ll be amazed that a meal this rich and satisfying can be on your table in roughly 20 minutes, making it an absolute game-changer for weeknight dinners.
The Convenience of a Skillet Meal: Fast, Flavorful, and Fuss-Free
In today’s fast-paced world, finding quick and easy dinner solutions is paramount. This white chicken enchilada skillet is specifically designed for maximum flavor with minimum effort. Unlike traditional enchiladas that require baking in an oven, this recipe cooks entirely on your stove, significantly cutting down preparation and cook time. Imagine, a hearty and authentic-tasting Mexican meal ready in about 20 minutes! This means less time cooking, less time cleaning, and more time enjoying your evening.
The beauty of a one-pan skillet meal lies in its simplicity. All the ingredients meld together, allowing their flavors to deepen and harmonize as they cook. This not only creates a more cohesive and delicious dish but also simplifies the cleanup process, leaving you with just one pan to wash. It’s the perfect answer for busy parents, students, or anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. If you love skillet chicken recipes, you might also enjoy our Salsa Verde chicken skillet, another quick Mexican-inspired dish that families adore.
Essential White Chicken Enchilada Skillet Ingredients
To craft this incredibly quick and flavorful dish, you’ll need a selection of simple yet potent ingredients. Be sure to scroll to the bottom of the post for the FULL PRINTABLE recipe card with exact measurements.
- Butter: The foundation for our rich and creamy white sauce, adding a lovely depth of flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: Used to create a roux with the butter, which will thicken our delicious enchilada sauce.
- Chicken Broth: The liquid base for our sauce. Opt for low sodium if you’re mindful of salt intake, or use regular broth for a more robust flavor.
- Chili Powder: A key spice that delivers classic Southwestern warmth and a subtle kick.
- Cumin: Earthy and aromatic, cumin is essential for that authentic Mexican flavor profile.
- Salt & Pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance all the other flavors and bring them into balance.
- Diced Green Chilies: These mild chilies add a touch of authentic Mexican flavor and a gentle heat without being overpowering. They are a must for “white” enchiladas.
- Chicken: We recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes, for quick cooking. However, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can also be used for an even juicier result.
- Monterey Jack Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and offers a mild, creamy flavor that complements the white enchilada sauce perfectly. Shredded Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend works great.
- Corn Tortillas: Diced corn tortillas are stirred directly into the skillet, softening into the sauce and providing that essential enchilada texture and flavor without the need for individual rolling.
- Sour Cream: The secret to the sauce’s luxurious creaminess and tangy finish, bringing all the flavors together in a luscious blend.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Your White Chicken Enchilada Skillet
Creating this delicious one-pan meal is surprisingly straightforward and incredibly fast. Follow these simple steps for a perfect enchilada skillet every time:
- Start Your Roux: In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron works wonderfully), melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once melted and shimmering, stir in the flour. Cook this mixture for 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously, until it reaches a beautiful golden brown color. This is your roux, the base that will thicken your sauce and add a nutty flavor.
- Whisk in the Broth: Gradually pour the chicken stock into the skillet, whisking constantly as you add it. This slow addition and continuous whisking are crucial to ensure the sauce remains smooth and free of any lumps, creating a silky consistency.
- Season the Sauce: Add all your wonderful seasonings – chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper – along with the can of diced green chilies. Stir everything together to combine thoroughly. Allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer for a few minutes, giving it time to thicken slightly and for the flavors to meld.
- Cook the Chicken: Introduce your diced chicken pieces to the simmering sauce. Stir well to ensure every piece is thoroughly coated. Let the chicken cook in the sauce for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is just cooked through and no longer pink. Cooking the chicken directly in the sauce infuses it with incredible flavor.
- Add Creaminess and Tortillas: Now for the enchilada magic! Stir in one cup of the Monterey Jack cheese, your diced corn tortillas, and the sour cream. Mix everything until it’s well blended. The tortillas will soften and break down slightly, giving the dish that classic enchilada texture and heartiness.
- Melt the Final Cheese: Top the entire skillet with the remaining half cup of Monterey Jack cheese. Cover the skillet with a lid and continue to heat for a few minutes, just until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly. This creates a gorgeous, cheesy crown for your skillet meal.
- Serve Immediately: Your White Chicken Enchilada Skillet is now ready to be devoured! Serve it hot, straight from the pan, or scoop generous portions onto plates.
While this skillet version is a fantastic time-saver, if you find yourself with more than 20 minutes on a less busy night and are craving the classic experience, making actual White Chicken Enchiladas from scratch is definitely a rewarding effort!
Serving Suggestions for Your Skillet Enchiladas
This quick and satisfying skillet meal is perfect for any night of the week, especially when you need dinner on the table in a flash. To elevate your white chicken enchilada skillet experience, consider these delicious garnishes and side dishes:
- Fresh Toppings: A sprinkle of fresh, diced avocado adds a creamy counterpoint, while chopped cilantro brings a burst of freshness and color. A squeeze of fresh lime juice can brighten the whole dish.
- For Crunch: No Mexican meal at our house is complete without some crunch! Serve alongside a handful of homemade tortilla chips or store-bought equivalents for dipping and added texture.
- Creamy Additions: A dollop of extra sour cream or a swirl of Mexican crema on top will enhance the richness.
- Salsas & Dips: Pair it with Restaurant Style Salsa for a tangy kick, or a generous scoop of homemade guacamole for a fresh, creamy complement. Don’t forget Bean Dip for another flavorful side!
- Hearty Sides: For a more substantial meal, serve with a side of fluffy Mexican rice or our Homemade Refried Beans. A simple green salad with a lime vinaigrette can also offer a refreshing contrast.
Variations and Customizations: Make It Your Own!
One of the great things about this white chicken enchilada skillet is how adaptable it is. Feel free to get creative and customize it to your family’s preferences:
- Protein Power: While chicken is classic, you can easily swap it out. Cooked shredded turkey, ground beef, or even shrimp would be delicious. For a vegetarian option, consider adding black beans, corn, or sautéed bell peppers and onions.
- Cheese, Please: Experiment with different cheeses! A blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar, or even a touch of Oaxaca cheese, would work well.
- Spice It Up: If you love heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce. You could also use a spicier variety of diced green chilies.
- Veggie Boost: Stir in some frozen corn, black beans, or finely diced bell peppers along with the chicken for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Gluten-Friendly: This recipe already uses corn tortillas, making it naturally gluten-free. Just ensure all your other ingredients (like broth) are certified gluten-free if strict dietary requirements are in place.
Tips for Skillet Enchilada Success
To ensure your white chicken enchilada skillet turns out perfectly every time, keep these simple tips in mind:
- Prep Ahead: Dice your chicken and tortillas, and measure out your spices before you start cooking. This will make the 20-minute cooking process even smoother.
- Even Chicken Cubes: Cutting your chicken into uniform 1-inch cubes ensures it cooks evenly and quickly in the sauce.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Chicken breasts can dry out quickly. Cook just until they are no longer pink inside, usually 8-10 minutes in the simmering sauce. They will continue to cook slightly when the cheese melts.
- Whisk Well: When adding the chicken broth, whisk thoroughly and slowly to prevent any lumps from forming in your sauce. A smooth sauce is a happy sauce!
- Cover for Melted Cheese: Covering the skillet for the last few minutes creates a steamy environment that helps the cheese melt perfectly and evenly over the entire dish.
Want More Quick & Easy Dinner Recipes?
If you’re always on the hunt for simple, delicious meals that don’t compromise on flavor or convenience, you’ve come to the right place! Explore more of our favorite easy dinner recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights:
- Shrimp & Avocado Tostadas
- Salsa Verde Chicken Skillet
- Cheeseburger Macaroni
- Taco Pasta Skillet
- Chicken Pot Pie Noodles
- One Pan Chicken Spinach Alfredo
White Chicken Enchilada Skillet
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Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons Butter
- 3 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour
- 2 cups Chicken Stock
- 1/2 teaspoon Chili Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1 (4 ounce) can Diced Green Chiles
- 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast, Cut into 1 inch cubes
- 1 1/2 cups Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese
- 10 Corn Tortillas, Diced
- 1 cup Sour Cream
Toppings (Optional)
- Diced Avocado
- Cilantro
Instructions
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In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and stir continuously for 2-3 minutes until the roux turns a light golden brown, forming the base of your creamy sauce.
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Slowly whisk in 2 cups of chicken stock, ensuring there are no clumps and the mixture is smooth and consistent.
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Stir in 1/2 teaspoon each of chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper, along with the entire 4-ounce can of diced green chiles.
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Bring the seasoned sauce to a low simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen and the sauce to begin thickening.
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Add 1 pound of 1-inch cubed boneless, skinless chicken breast to the skillet, stirring to coat the chicken thoroughly with the rich sauce.
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Continue to cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is just cooked through and tender. Be careful not to overcook.
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Stir in 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese, 10 diced corn tortillas, and 1 cup of sour cream.
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Mix until all the ingredients are well blended and the tortillas have softened into the sauce, creating a hearty, enchilada-like texture.
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Top the skillet with the remaining 1/2 cup of Monterey Jack cheese, cover the pan, and heat for a few minutes until the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly.
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Serve your White Chicken Enchilada Skillet immediately, garnished with optional diced avocado and fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor and color. Enjoy your quick and delicious Mexican feast!
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
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