Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling is a convenient and delicious way to bring the taste of Mexico to your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights, this hearty dish is sure to please the whole family.
This recipe has been passed down through generations, bringing families together over hearty meals. The slow-cooked chicken absorbs all the spices and flavors, making every bite a delight.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, savory flavors that everyone will enjoy
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
- Versatile filling for enchiladas, tacos, or burritos
A Convenient Dinner Solution
In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a delicious and nutritious meal can be a challenge. This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling not only offers a solution but also brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico right to your dining room. The slow cooker allows you to set it and forget it, making it ideal for busy families juggling work, school, and after-school activities.
By using simple ingredients that you may already have in your pantry, this recipe is both economical and easy to customize. You can easily adjust the spice levels or add your favorite vegetables to suit your family’s tastes. No more rushing through dinner prep—just set it in the morning, and you'll come home to a warm, hearty meal.
Meal Prep and Versatility
One of the best features of this chicken enchilada filling is its versatility. Not only can you use it for enchiladas, but it also works wonderfully as a filling for tacos, burritos, or even nachos. The dish lends itself well to creative meal planning, allowing you to serve it in various ways throughout the week. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep enthusiasts who want to enjoy different meals without spending hours in the kitchen.
Furthermore, the filling keeps well in the refrigerator for several days, making it perfect for leftovers. You can easily reheat it for a quick lunch or dinner. This means less waste and more time spent enjoying meals with your loved ones.
Customization Options
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. Feel free to swap out the black beans for pinto beans or add some diced bell peppers for extra crunch. If you like it spicy, consider adding jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce to the mix. You can even experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack, for a little kick.
For a healthier twist, you can replace traditional tortillas with lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to cater to various dietary needs and preferences while still delivering a delicious dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 jar (16 oz) enchilada sauce
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste!
Instructions
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Add Remaining Ingredients
Pour the enchilada sauce over the chicken. Add the black beans and corn, stirring gently to combine.
Cook the Filling
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir to combine with the other ingredients.
Serve
If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top and let it melt before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
Enjoy your delicious enchilada filling in tacos, burritos, or enchiladas!
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover chicken enchilada filling, you're in luck! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, simply warm it in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. This makes for a convenient lunch option that’s just as tasty the next day.
For longer storage, consider freezing the filling. Divide it into portions and place it in freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken enchilada filling can be served in a variety of ways to please different palates. Serve it stuffed in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, or salsa. Alternatively, you can create a delightful burrito bowl by layering the filling over rice, lettuce, and various toppings.
For a fun twist, consider making a nacho platter. Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet, top with the chicken filling, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and bake until the cheese is bubbly. This makes for a great game-day snack or a casual family movie night treat.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you may need to increase the cooking time.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge.
→ What can I serve with this filling?
Serve it in tortillas, over rice, or as a topping for nachos.
→ Can I freeze the filling?
Yes, the filling can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling
This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling is a convenient and delicious way to bring the taste of Mexico to your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights, this hearty dish is sure to please the whole family.
Created by: Maribel Hayes
Recipe Type: Global Flavors
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 jar (16 oz) enchilada sauce
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Pour the enchilada sauce over the chicken. Add the black beans and corn, stirring gently to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir to combine with the other ingredients.
If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top and let it melt before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 30g