Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling is a must-try for any busy household. Packed with flavor and made easy in your slow cooker, it's perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping.
This crockpot chicken enchilada filling is a family staple that brings everyone together around the table. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a delicious filling that can be used in enchiladas, tacos, or even served over rice.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare with minimal hands-on time
- Versatile filling for various dishes
- Packed with flavor from spices and fresh ingredients
The Convenience of Slow Cooking
Crockpot meals are a lifesaver for busy families. With just a few minutes of prep in the morning, you can set your slow cooker to work and return home to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal. This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling is the perfect example of how easy it can be to serve a nutritious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
Slow cooking not only saves time but also enhances flavors. As the ingredients meld together over hours of cooking, the spices and seasonings infuse the chicken, resulting in a dish that's bursting with taste. This method allows for tender, juicy chicken that shreds effortlessly, making it an ideal filling for various dishes.
Versatile Meal Options
One of the best aspects of this chicken enchilada filling is its versatility. While it’s perfect for traditional enchiladas, you can also use it as a filling for tacos, burritos, or even quesadillas. Serve it over rice for a comforting bowl meal or add it to salads for an extra protein boost. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a staple in your meal rotation.
You can easily customize the filling to suit your family's tastes. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or onions for added texture and nutrition. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. This adaptability means you can enjoy a different meal each time you make it.
Perfect for Meal Prepping
If you love meal prepping, this crockpot chicken enchilada filling is a fantastic choice. Make a large batch at the beginning of the week, and portion it out for quick lunches or dinners. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days or can be frozen for longer storage. Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Meal prepping not only saves time but also helps you stick to healthier eating habits. With this flavorful filling on hand, you can quickly put together a nutritious meal, avoiding the temptation of takeout on busy nights. Plus, knowing you have a delicious option ready to go can reduce stress during the hectic week.
Ingredients
For the Enchilada Filling
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Mix and match these ingredients to suit your taste!
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot.
Add the Ingredients
Pour in the black beans, corn, enchilada sauce, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot. Mix well with the other ingredients.
Serve
Top with shredded cheese and fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy in tacos, enchiladas, or over rice!
For additional flavor, feel free to add diced bell peppers or onions to the mix.
Tips for Success
For the best results, choose high-quality chicken breasts. They should be fresh and free of any additives. If you're short on time, you can also use frozen chicken, but ensure it's fully cooked before shredding it in the crockpot. This recipe is forgiving, so you can easily adjust the spices according to your preference.
Make sure to check the seasoning at the end of the cooking process. Everyone's taste buds are different, so a quick taste test can help you determine if it needs a pinch more salt or spice. Don’t hesitate to adjust it to suit your family’s palate!
Serving Suggestions
When serving this enchilada filling, consider a variety of toppings to enhance the flavor. Fresh avocado, sour cream, or a squeeze of lime can elevate each bite. Additionally, a side of Mexican rice or a simple green salad pairs beautifully with the dish, creating a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.
For a fun twist, set up a taco bar! Let each family member customize their own tacos with a selection of toppings. This interactive dining experience not only makes mealtime more enjoyable but also encourages everyone to try new ingredients.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, just increase the cooking time by an hour.
→ How long can I store the leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.
→ What can I substitute for the black beans?
You can substitute with pinto beans or even lentils for a different flavor.
Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling
This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling is a must-try for any busy household. Packed with flavor and made easy in your slow cooker, it's perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping.
Created by: Keira Dalton
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Enchilada Filling
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
How-To Steps
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot.
Pour in the black beans, corn, enchilada sauce, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot. Mix well with the other ingredients.
Top with shredded cheese and fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy in tacos, enchiladas, or over rice!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 550mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 10g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 30g