Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas from Taco Cabana feature tender shredded chicken rolled in soft corn tortillas, smothered in a tangy sour cream sauce and melted cheese, topped with fresh cilantro and served with a side of zesty salsa, offering a creamy and flavorful Mexican comfort dish.
Equipments
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Baking dish (9x13 inch)
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Spoon or spatula
- Cheese grater
- Aluminum foil
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 8-10 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups sour cream
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 cup salsa
Make sure to use tender, cooked shredded chicken to maintain the enchiladas' soft texture. Fresh corn tortillas are essential for authenticity and should be warmed slightly to prevent cracking while rolling. The combination of Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese creates a creamy, melty topping that complements the tangy sour cream sauce. Adding diced green chilies enhances the dish with a subtle kick, balanced by the warmth of cumin, garlic, and onion powders. Your Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas taste just like Taco Cabana's copycat menu when you combine these ingredients with fresh cilantro and serve alongside zesty salsa.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth.
- Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in sour cream and green chilies.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken with 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese.
- Warm corn tortillas until soft and pliable.
- Spoon chicken-cheese mixture onto each tortilla and roll up.
- Arrange rolled tortillas seam-side down in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Pour sour cream sauce evenly over enchiladas.
- Sprinkle remaining Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese on top.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Top with chopped cilantro.
- Serve with salsa on the side.
Substitution
Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas from Taco Cabana copycat menu can be adapted by substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream to reduce fat while maintaining creaminess. If corn tortillas are unavailable or prone to tearing, soft flour tortillas provide a sturdy alternative without compromising texture. You may use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking and shredding your own for convenience and time-saving. When fresh cilantro is out of reach, dried cilantro or fresh parsley can add similar herbal notes to the dish. Adjust the spice levels in the salsa or green chilies to suit your personal heat preference and dietary needs.
Tips
Ensure to warm the corn tortillas before rolling to prevent cracking during assembly. When making the sour cream sauce, continuous whisking after adding chicken broth is crucial to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth texture. Use a greased baking dish to avoid sticking, and cover the enchiladas with foil during the initial baking to keep moist and evenly cook the filling. Let your Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld and to make slicing easier.
Nutritions
Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas provide a balanced mix of protein from shredded chicken and calcium-rich dairy through Monterey Jack, Cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Corn tortillas contribute complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber, supporting digestion and sustained energy. The dish contains essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, calcium, and phosphorus, while green chilies add antioxidants and a boost of vitamin C. You can enjoy this creamy Mexican comfort food while benefiting from a rich nutrient profile that supports muscle repair and bone health.
Storage
Store leftover Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss. Refrigerate the enchiladas promptly within 2 hours of cooking and consume within 3-4 days for optimal flavor and safety. For longer storage, freeze the enchiladas in a freezer-safe container, ensuring they are tightly wrapped in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn; reheat thoroughly before serving.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute cooked shredded turkey for the chicken to create a lighter version of Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas. Try using flour tortillas instead of corn for a softer texture that holds the filling well. To enhance the sauce, add a few dashes of chipotle powder or smoked paprika for a smoky depth. For a dairy-free option, replace sour cream with a cashew cream or a plant-based yogurt alternative without compromising the creamy consistency.
Allergies
Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas contain dairy ingredients such as sour cream, Monterey Jack, and Cheddar cheese, which may cause allergic reactions for those with milk allergies or lactose intolerance. Corn tortillas are generally gluten-free, but cross-contamination could occur during processing, posing risks for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. You should also be cautious of potential allergies to chicken, spices like cumin, and additives found in canned green chilies or salsa.
Why this recipe?
Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas from Taco Cabana are beloved for their rich, creamy sauce combined with tender, seasoned chicken wrapped in warm tortillas. The dish balances savory and tangy flavors, enhanced by melted cheese and fresh toppings, creating a satisfying Tex-Mex experience. Making a copycat version allows you to recreate this authentic taste at home while customizing spices and ingredients to your preference. Your homemade batch can capture the same comforting textures and bold flavors that make this menu item a standout choice.