Crockpot Chicken Enchiladas

Satisfy your craving for a comforting, Mexican-inspired meal with these Crockpot Chicken Enchiladas. This dish features tender shredded chicken, flavorful enchilada sauce, beans, corn, and melted cheese—all slow-cooked to perfection. It’s an effortless way to enjoy enchiladas with minimal prep and maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe transforms a traditional favorite into a one-pot wonder. With the help of a slow cooker, there’s no need for rolling tortillas or baking—just layer, cook, and serve. It’s a hands-off, hearty dinner that’s full of bold flavor and ideal for busy weeknights or family dinners.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Taco seasoning
• Red enchilada sauce
• Black beans, drained and rinsed
• Frozen corn
• Diced onion
• Diced green chiles
• Corn tortillas, cut into strips
• Shredded Mexican cheese blend
• Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
• Sour cream (optional, for serving)

Directions

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and taco seasoning and place them in the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Add the enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, diced onion, and green chiles on top of the chicken.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
4. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker, shred it with two forks, then return it to the pot. Stir to combine with the sauce and vegetables.
5. Add the tortilla strips and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Mix until well combined.
6. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top, cover, and cook for another 15–20 minutes until the cheese is melted.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with sour cream if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high

Variations

• Use shredded rotisserie chicken to cut down on cooking time.
• Substitute ground beef or turkey for the chicken.
• Add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.
• Use flour tortillas if preferred, but expect a slightly softer texture.
• Add chopped bell peppers or zucchini for more vegetables.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes, or reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?

Yes, flour tortillas can be used, though they tend to become softer in texture during slow cooking.

Do I need to cook the chicken beforehand?

No, the chicken cooks thoroughly in the slow cooker and becomes tender and easy to shred.

Can I make this recipe spicier?

Yes, use spicy enchilada sauce or add jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or hot sauce for more heat.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well. Store in an airtight container, and thaw before reheating.

Can I add rice to this dish?

Yes, cooked rice can be stirred in toward the end of cooking or served on the side.

What toppings go well with this?

Sour cream, avocado, chopped tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or green onions all complement this dish.

Can I prepare it the night before?

Yes, you can assemble all ingredients in the slow cooker insert, cover, refrigerate, and cook the next day.

How do I avoid soggy tortillas?

Cut tortillas into strips and stir them in toward the end of cooking to help preserve texture.

Is it okay to use canned chicken?

Yes, although fresh chicken is preferred for flavor and texture, canned chicken can be used in a pinch.

What cheese works best?

A Mexican blend, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix of your favorites all melt well and add great flavor.

Conclusion

Crockpot Chicken Enchiladas are a flavorful, filling meal with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work, producing a dish that’s rich in taste and comforting in texture. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing meals in advance, this recipe delivers every time with ease and satisfaction.

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