Welcome to our delicious and easy recipe for Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas! If you’re looking for a flavorful and comforting dinner that’s also incredibly convenient, you’ve come to the right place.
Made with tender chicken, flavorful spices, and a homemade enchilada sauce, these enchiladas are perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
The best part? You can make them in your slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld together while you go about your day.
Our Chicken Enchiladas Recipe is designed to be straightforward and customizable. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned pro, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow and enjoyable to make.
The slow cooker does all the hard work for you, resulting in tender and flavorful chicken that’s ready to be shredded and rolled into mouthwatering enchiladas.
Key Takeaways:
- Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas are a delicious and easy dinner option.
- This recipe allows you to make flavorful enchiladas in your slow cooker.
- Customize the recipe to your liking with different spices and toppings.
- Enjoy the convenience of meal prep and leftovers with this recipe.
- Experiment with variations such as using salsa verde or beef instead of chicken.
Why This Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas Works
There are several reasons why this Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas recipe is a winner. Firstly, it is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple steps.
The convenience of using a slow cooker allows you to set it and forget it, leaving you with more time for other activities.
Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a busy parent, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a hassle-free meal.
In addition to its simplicity, this recipe is ideal for meal prep. By preparing the enchiladas in advance, you can have a delicious dinner waiting for you whenever you need it.
Simply store the leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer, and you’ll have a satisfying meal ready to heat and enjoy.
Not only is this recipe easy and convenient, but it is also a healthy option. The chicken provides a good source of lean protein, while the beans add fiber and nutrients.
You can also customize the recipe to include more vegetables or use whole wheat tortillas for added nutrition.
“The Easy Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas are a perfect meal-prep dinner solution for anyone looking to save time in the kitchen without compromising on flavor.”
Lastly, this dish is the ultimate comfort food, making it ideal for cooler weather or cozy family dinners.
The combination of tender chicken, flavorful spices, and melted cheese creates a satisfying and satisfyingly delicious meal that will leave everyone wanting seconds.
To get a visual idea of how delicious this dish looks, take a look at the image below:
Ingredients for Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas
To make Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas, you will need a few key ingredients:
Ingredients | Quantity |
---|---|
Chicken Thighs or Breasts | 1 lb |
Onion, chopped | 1/2 medium |
Garlic cloves, minced | 2 |
Ground Cumin | 1 teaspoon |
Kosher Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
Enchilada Sauce (homemade or store-bought) | 1 cup |
Sour Cream | 1/4 cup |
Tortillas, cut into strips | 4 |
Low-Sodium Black Beans, rinsed and drained | 1 can |
Mexican Cheese Blend, Monterey Jack, or Mozzarella | 1 cup |
Now that you have gathered all your ingredients, you’re ready to prepare the delicious Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas!
How to Make Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas
Making Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas is a breeze. Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Sauté Onion and Garlic
Start by sautéing half of a medium onion and two garlic cloves in a skillet until they are softened and browned. This will enhance the flavors and add a delicious aroma to your enchiladas.
Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Transfer the cooked onions and garlic to the slow cooker. Add the enchilada sauce, sour cream, and water. Stir everything together to thoroughly combine the ingredients. This will ensure that every bite of your enchiladas is packed with flavor.
Cook on High or Low
Next, nestle the chicken into the sauce mixture in the slow cooker. Cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or low for 6 to 7 hours until the chicken is tender and shreds easily.
The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become incredibly tender.
Shred Chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the slow cooker. This will create moist and succulent shredded chicken that will be perfect for stuffing the enchiladas.
Add Tortillas and Cheese
Stir in the tortilla strips, making sure they are well coated in the sauce. The tortillas will absorb the flavors and provide a soft and hearty base for the enchiladas.
Finally, top the mixture with your choice of shredded cheese to create a gooey and delicious layer on top of the enchiladas.
Here is an appetizing visual representation of the steps:
Step | Description |
---|---|
Sauté onion and garlic until softened and browned. | |
Combine cooked onions and garlic with enchilada sauce, sour cream, and water in a slow cooker. | |
Cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-7 hours until chicken is tender. | |
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k0v4cqh1xGg | Shred chicken using two forks directly in the slow cooker. |
Stir in tortilla strips and top with cheese. |
Once you have completed these steps, cover the slow cooker and cook for an additional 30 minutes until the cheese has melted and the flavors have melded together. Your Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas are now ready to be served and enjoyed!
Serving Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas
To serve Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas, spoon a cup of the enchilada casserole into a bowl and garnish with Garnish with Cilantro and Jalapeños.
You can also serve it over rice with sliced avocado and more sour cream or crema. Optional toppings include sliced avocado, cilantro lime rice, and additional sour cream or crema.
Feel free to customize the dish to your liking and add any other desired toppings.
In partnership with this section, we present a visual representation of the serving suggestion:
Optional Toppings | Description |
---|---|
Sliced Avocado | Add creamy texture and healthy fats. |
Cilantro Lime Rice | Enhance the flavors with this fresh and zesty side dish. |
Additional Sour Cream or Crema | For extra creaminess and tang. |
Variations and Substitutions for Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas
If you’re looking to put a unique spin on traditional Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas, there are several variations and substitutions you can try.
These alternatives will add exciting flavors and allow you to customize the dish to your preferences. Here are some ideas to consider:
1. Salsa Verde
Instead of using the classic enchilada sauce, try using salsa verde as a flavorful alternative. The tangy and slightly spicy profile of salsa verde complements the chicken beautifully, adding a refreshing twist to the dish.
2. Chicken Breast
If you prefer leaner protein options, swap the chicken thighs with boneless chicken breasts.
Chicken breasts are lower in fat and calories while still offering a delicious and tender meat option for your enchiladas.
3. Beef Enchilada Casserole
For a change of taste, consider making a beef enchilada casserole instead of using chicken. Substitute the chicken with chuck beef for a rich and savory twist on the classic recipe.
4. Pinto Beans
If you’re not a fan of black beans, you can easily substitute them with pinto beans. Pinto beans have a milder flavor and a creamy texture that pairs well with the other ingredients in the dish.
5. Corn Tortillas or Flour Tortillas
While traditional Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas call for corn tortillas, you can switch them out with flour tortillas if you prefer. Flour tortillas have a softer and more pliable texture, giving your enchiladas a different mouthfeel.
Feel free to mix and match these variations and substitutions to create a unique and personalized version of Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas. Experiment with different combinations and discover your favorite twist on this classic recipe.
Leftovers and Storage for Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas
Once you’ve enjoyed the deliciousness of Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas, you may find yourself with some leftovers. Don’t let these flavorful enchiladas go to waste! Here are some tips for storing and reheating them:
Refrigerating Enchiladas:
If you plan on consuming the leftovers within a few days, the refrigerator is the way to go. Simply transfer the enchiladas to an airtight container and place them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days.
Freezing Enchiladas:
If you want to extend the shelf life of your enchiladas, freezing is the perfect solution. Before freezing, make sure the enchiladas have cooled completely.
Wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. When properly stored, they can be frozen for up to 3 months without sacrificing taste or texture.
Reheating Enchiladas:
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftover enchiladas, reheating them is a breeze. The easiest method is to use a microwave.
Simply remove the desired amount of enchiladas from the refrigerator or freezer, place them on a microwave-safe plate, and cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap.
Heat on high power in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring or rotating as needed, until heated through.
Another option is to reheat the enchiladas in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the enchiladas from the refrigerator or freezer and transfer them to an oven-safe dish.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes if refrigerated or 40-45 minutes if frozen, or until thoroughly heated.
Remember to always check that the enchiladas are piping hot throughout before serving. And don’t forget to garnish with your favorite toppings for an extra burst of flavor!
Now that you know how to store and reheat your leftover Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas, you can enjoy their deliciousness anytime you want, even when you’re short on time or don’t feel like cooking!
Action | Refrigerated Enchiladas | Frozen Enchiladas |
---|---|---|
Storage | Up to 4 days in an airtight container | Up to 3 months when well wrapped |
Reheating | Microwave: 30-second intervals, stirring or rotating as needed | Oven: 20-25 minutes if refrigerated; 40-45 minutes if frozen |
Recipe Details and Nutritional Information for Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas
Are you ready to dive into the delicious details of this Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas recipe? Discover the prep time, cook time, yield, serving size, required equipment, essential ingredients, and valuable nutrition information to guide your culinary adventure.
Prep Time and Cook Time
Preparing this mouthwatering dish will take approximately 15 minutes, while allowing it to cook to perfection in the slow cooker will require 4 hours and 30 minutes. The result is tender chicken, bursting with robust flavors, that effortlessly shreds.
Yield and Serving Size
This recipe yields 6 servings, with each serving measuring out to 1 cup. Each serving is packed with all the deliciousness needed to satisfy your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied.
Equipment
To craft these delectable Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas, you will need the following equipment:
- A slow cooker, which will infuse the dish with rich flavors while keeping the chicken tender and juicy.
Ingredients
Indulge your senses with the following ingredients:
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, providing a protein-packed base for these enchiladas.
- Avocado or olive oil, offering a touch of healthy fat for added flavor.
- A medium onion, finely chopped, to add a hint of sweetness.
- Garlic, lending its aromatic essence to the dish.
- Ground cumin, which infuses the dish with a warm and earthy flavor.
- Kosher salt, enhancing the overall taste profile.
- Homemade enchilada sauce or jarred sauce, providing a rich and zesty flavor base.
- Sour cream, adding a tangy creaminess to balance the spices.
- Corn tortillas, the traditional enveloping vessel for these enchiladas.
- Low-sodium black beans, adding a nutritious and protein-rich element.
- Shredded cheese, melting into a gooey, cheesy topping for the enchiladas.
- Sliced jalapeño peppers and chopped fresh cilantro, offering a burst of freshness and a touch of heat for those craving a little spice.
Nutrition Information
Understanding the nutritional breakdown of this tantalizing dish will help you make informed choices. Each serving of Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas contains approximately:
Calories | Carbohydrates | Protein | Fat | Saturated Fat | Cholesterol | Sodium | Fiber | Sugar |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
315 | 26g | 25.5g | 12g | 5g | 92.5mg | 862mg | 7g | 3.5g |
These figures provide valuable insights into the nutritional content of each serving, enabling you to make dietary choices that align with your individual needs and goals.
With the recipe details and nutritional information in hand, you’re well-equipped to embark on your flavorful journey to create these irresistible Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas.
FAQ
Why should I make Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas?
Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas are incredibly easy to make, perfect for meal prep, healthy, and a comforting dish that is ideal for cooler weather.
What ingredients do I need for Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas?
To make Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas, you will need boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, onion, garlic, ground cumin, kosher salt, enchilada sauce, sour cream, corn tortillas, black beans, shredded cheese, sliced jalapeño peppers, and chopped fresh cilantro.
How do I make Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas?
Start by sautéing onion and garlic, then combine them with the enchilada sauce, sour cream, water, black beans, and chicken in the slow cooker.
Cook on high or low until the chicken is tender, shred the chicken, add tortillas and cheese, and cook until the cheese has melted.
How should I serve Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas?
Spoon a cup of the enchilada casserole into a bowl, garnish with cilantro and jalapeños. You can also serve it over rice with sliced avocado and more sour cream or crema. Customize with additional desired toppings.
What variations and substitutions can I make for Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas?
You can try using salsa verde instead of enchilada sauce, swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts or turkey breasts, make a beef enchilada casserole with chuck beef, replace black beans with pinto beans or canned corn, and switch corn tortillas with flour tortillas if desired.
Can I store and reheat leftovers of Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas?
Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave until heated through.
What are the recipe details and nutritional information for Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas?
The recipe has a prep time of 15 minutes and a cook time of 4 hours and 30 minutes. It yields 6 servings, with a serving size of 1 cup. The equipment needed is a slow cooker.
The nutritional information per serving is approximately 315 calories, 26g carbohydrates, 25.5g protein, 12g fat, 5g saturated fat, 92.5mg cholesterol, 862mg sodium, 7g fiber, and 3.5g sugar.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas are a delicious and easy option for a flavorful dinner. This recipe offers the convenience of the slow cooker while delivering mouthwatering results.
Whether you’re looking for a meal to make ahead for meal prep or a comforting dish for a family dinner, these enchiladas check all the boxes.
Try out different variations and toppings to make them your own. Salsa verde can provide a tangy twist to the traditional enchilada sauce, while swapping chicken thighs for chicken breasts or turkey breasts offers a leaner option.
You can also explore making a beef enchilada casserole by substituting the chicken with chuck beef.
Customize your toppings with sliced avocado, cilantro lime rice, or additional sour cream or crema. The versatility of this recipe allows for endless possibilities.
We value your feedback and would love to hear about your experience with this Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas recipe. Leave us a rating and comment to share your thoughts and ideas. We hope this recipe becomes a go-to favorite in your kitchen, bringing joy and satisfaction to your family and guests. Enjoy!