When you need a comforting, flavorful dinner that doesn’t take hours in the kitchen, this quick & tasty sour cream chicken enchilada recipe is the perfect solution. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken and bold Mexican-inspired flavors, sour cream chicken enchiladas are a family favorite that works just as well for weeknight meals as they do for casual gatherings.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to make the best sour cream chicken enchiladas, along with tips, variations, and make-ahead ideas to ensure perfect results every time.
Why This Sour Cream Chicken Enchilada Recipe Is So Popular
Sour cream chicken enchiladas stand out because they strike the perfect balance between rich, creamy comfort food and bold, satisfying flavor.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
Quick to prepare – Ideal for busy evenings
Simple ingredients – Easy to find in most grocery stores
Creamy and cheesy – Comfort food at its best
Customizable – Adjust spice level and fillings to taste
Crowd-pleasing – Loved by adults and kids alike
If you’re craving something hearty yet easy, this quick & tasty sour cream chicken enchilada recipe deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation.
Ingredients for Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas
Before you begin, gather these simple ingredients.
Main Ingredients
Cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
Flour tortillas (soft taco size)
Sour cream
Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
Cream of chicken soup
Onion (finely chopped)
Garlic (minced)
Seasonings & Extras
Ground cumin
Chili powder
Salt and black pepper
Green chilies (optional)
Fresh cilantro (optional)
These pantry-friendly ingredients come together to create a creamy enchilada sauce that’s rich without being overwhelming.
Step-by-Step: Quick & Tasty Sour Cream Chicken Enchilada Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling
In a large bowl, combine:
Cooked shredded chicken
Half of the shredded cheese
Chopped onion
Garlic
Cumin and chili powder
Mix until well combined. Using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even faster.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sour Cream Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together:
Sour cream
Cream of chicken soup
A pinch of salt and pepper
Optional green chilies for added flavor
This sauce is the heart of the quick & tasty sour cream chicken enchilada recipe, giving it that signature creamy texture.
Step 3: Assemble the Enchiladas
Warm the tortillas slightly to prevent tearing.
Spoon chicken filling into the center of each tortilla.
Roll tightly and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
Repeat until all tortillas are filled.
Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese
Pour the sour cream sauce evenly over the enchiladas.
Sprinkle remaining shredded cheese on top.
Make sure the enchiladas are well covered so they stay moist while baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving for best texture.
Practical Tips for the Best Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas
Use the Right Tortillas
Flour tortillas work best for this creamy enchilada recipe.
Corn tortillas can be used, but they may require extra warming to prevent cracking.
Don’t Overbake
Overbaking can dry out the enchiladas. Remove them as soon as the sauce is bubbling and cheese is melted.
Balance the Creaminess
If you prefer a lighter dish:
Use reduced-fat sour cream
Add a splash of chicken broth to thin the sauce
Boost the Flavor
Add sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms
Sprinkle smoked paprika on top before baking
Finish with fresh cilantro or green onions
These simple tricks elevate your quick & tasty sour cream chicken enchilada recipe effortlessly.
Delicious Variations to Try
Spicy Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas
Add jalapeños or hot green chilies
Use pepper jack cheese
Drizzle with hot sauce before serving
Healthy Lighter Version
Use whole wheat tortillas
Swap Greek yogurt for sour cream
Add extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini
Cheesy Extra-Indulgent Version
Use a three-cheese blend
Add a layer of cheese between tortillas
Serve with queso drizzle
What to Serve with Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas
Complete your meal with these tasty sides:
Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice
Refried or black beans
Fresh green salad with avocado
Corn on the cob or elote
Guacamole and tortilla chips
These sides balance the richness of the enchiladas perfectly.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Make-Ahead
Assemble enchiladas up to 24 hours in advance
Cover tightly and refrigerate
Bake just before serving
Freezing Instructions
Freeze unbaked enchiladas for up to 2 months
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator
Bake as directed
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container
Refrigerate for up to 3 days
Reheat in oven or microwave until warmed through
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using cold tortillas (they tear easily)
Skipping seasoning in the filling
Using too little sauce
Overfilling tortillas
Baking at too high a temperature
Avoiding these mistakes ensures perfect enchiladas every time.
Why This Recipe Works for Busy Families
This quick & tasty sour cream chicken enchilada recipe is ideal for:
Weeknight dinners
Meal prep
Potlucks and gatherings
Family-friendly meals
Comfort food cravings
It’s easy, reliable, and endlessly customizable.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dinner, this quick & tasty sour cream chicken enchilada recipe checks every box. With creamy sauce, tender chicken, melted cheese, and simple ingredients, it’s a dish that delivers big flavor without complicated steps.
Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals, these enchiladas are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Try them once, and you’ll understand why so many home cooks keep coming back to this creamy classic. 🌮🧀