2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
1 ½ cups chicken broth
½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
½ cup sour cream
1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
For Assembly:
8-10 flour tortillas (or corn tortillas for GF)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper Jack for extra spice!)
Chopped cilantro, green onions & extra bacon for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Filling
In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar, Monterey Jack, jalapeños, bacon, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt & pepper.
2. Prepare the Creamy Sauce
Melt butter in a saucepan. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in chicken broth, heavy cream, and sour cream until smooth.
Stir in diced green chiles and simmer until slightly thickened (~5 mins).
3. Assemble the Enchiladas
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread ½ cup sauce in the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in the dish.
4. Top & Bake
Pour remaining sauce over enchiladas. Sprinkle with extra cheese.
Bake 20-25 mins until bubbly and golden.
Broil 1-2 mins for extra crispiness (optional).
5. Garnish & Serve!
Top with cilantro, green onions, and extra bacon.
Serve with sour cream, avocado, or lime wedges.
Pro Tips for the Best Enchiladas
🔹 Warm tortillas slightly – Prevents cracking when rolling.
🔹 For extra smokiness – Add 1 tsp chipotle powder to the filling.
🔹 Make ahead – Assemble, cover, and refrigerate overnight (add 5-10 mins baking time).
🔹 Freezer-friendly – Freeze unbaked, then bake from frozen (add 15-20 mins).
Variations & Swaps
🌶 Extra spicy – Use pepper Jack cheese + leave jalapeño seeds in.
🍗 Turkey version – Swap chicken for leftover Thanksgiving turkey.
🥑 Avocado cream sauce – Blend avocado with the sour cream for topping.
🌱 Vegetarian – Use black beans & roasted veggies instead of chicken.
FAQs
Q: Can I use corn tortillas?
A: Yes! Lightly fry them first to prevent tearing.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Keep in the fridge for 3-4 days—reheat in the oven for best texture.
Q: Can I skip the bacon?
A: Yes, but it adds great smoky flavor!
Final Thoughts
These Jalapeño Popper Chicken Enchiladas are creamy, spicy, and loaded with cheesy goodness—the ultimate comfort food with a kick! One bite and you’ll be hooked.