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A close-up macro shot of authentic Jalapeño Popper Chicken Enchiladas in a rustic ceramic baking dish, showing the gooey melted cheese and fresh garnishes.

The Ultimate Jalapeño Popper Chicken Enchiladas

The best Jalapeño Popper Chicken Enchiladas recipe! Features tender chicken and a spicy, creamy filling, all smothered in a rich homemade white sauce and baked to golden-brown, cheesy perfection. The ultimate comfort food dinner.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 enchiladas
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the Enchilada Filling
  • 3 cups (450g) shredded cooked chicken a rotisserie chicken works well
  • 8 oz (225g) cream cheese softened
  • 1/2 cup (60g) diced pickled jalapeños drained
  • 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled, divided
For the Sauce & Assembly
  • 8-10 large flour tortillas
  • 4 tbsp (57g) unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups (480ml) chicken broth
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
  • 2.5 cups (250g) shredded cheese blend cheddar and Monterey Jack, divided
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
For Garnish
  • 1/2 cup (75g) diced red tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh cilantro

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) Baking Dish
  • 1 Large Skillet
  • 1 Saucepan

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy. Remove bacon, reserving 1 tbsp of fat. Once cool, crumble the bacon.
  2. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, diced jalapeños, and half of the crumbled bacon. Mix until well combined.
  3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in chicken broth, garlic powder, and onion powder. Simmer until thickened. Reduce heat, stir in heavy cream and 1 cup of cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Spread a thin layer of sauce in the prepared dish. Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in the dish.
  5. Pour the remaining sauce over the enchiladas. Top with the remaining 1.5 cups of cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
  6. Let rest for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with the remaining crumbled bacon, diced tomatoes, and fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

Shred Your Own Cheese: For the smoothest, gooiest melt, always grate a block of cheese yourself.
Don't Overfill: Be mindful not to overstuff the tortillas, as they can tear.
Control the Heat: If you're sensitive to spice, you can use fewer jalapeños or remove the seeds.
Resting is Required: Letting the enchiladas rest after baking is essential for them to set properly.