Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Slow-cooked to perfection, this dish is both flavorful and easy to prepare.
This crockpot chicken enchilada filling is a family favorite that combines tender chicken with zesty enchilada sauce, black beans, and corn. Simply toss the ingredients into the slow cooker, and let it do the work for you!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Tender, juicy chicken infused with flavorful spices
- Convenient one-pot meal that saves time
- Perfect for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas
The Convenience of Slow Cooking
One of the best things about this Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling is its convenience. With just a few minutes of prep, you can set it and forget it. The slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing you to focus on other tasks or enjoy some quality time with your family. Whether you're juggling work, school, or weekend activities, this recipe fits seamlessly into your schedule.
Slow cooking not only saves you time but also enhances the flavors of the ingredients, allowing them to meld and create a deliciously rich filling. The result is a meal that tastes like you spent hours preparing it, but in reality, it was all made in one pot with minimal effort.
Versatility in Serving
This chicken enchilada filling is incredibly versatile, making it a great choice for various meals. You can use it as a filling for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas, allowing everyone to customize their meal to their liking. If you're hosting a gathering, consider setting up a build-your-own taco bar, where guests can choose their toppings and create their own unique dishes.
Additionally, this filling can be easily adapted to suit different dietary preferences. For a vegetarian option, simply replace the chicken with jackfruit or mushrooms, and keep the rest of the ingredients the same. This flexibility makes it a go-to recipe for families with diverse tastes.
Meal Prep Made Easy
This recipe is perfect for meal prepping, allowing you to make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Simply double the ingredients and store the filling in airtight containers. It can be reheated for quick lunches or dinners, saving you time during busy weekdays. The flavors actually deepen and improve after a day or two in the fridge, making it an even better option for meal prep.
You can also freeze the filling in portions for later use. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. When you're ready to use it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or use the microwave for a quick defrost. This way, you'll always have a delicious meal ready to go at a moment’s notice.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Combine all ingredients in the crockpot for a delicious filling.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
Add the Ingredients
Layer the black beans, corn, and enchilada sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds.
Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks and mix with the other ingredients.
Serve
Use the filling for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas. Top with cheese if desired.
Enjoy your delicious chicken enchilada filling!
Tips for Perfectly Shredded Chicken
For the best results when shredding your chicken, ensure that it is fully cooked and tender. Using two forks to pull the chicken apart works well, but you can also use a hand mixer for a quicker method. Just be cautious not to over-shred the chicken; you want to maintain some texture for a satisfying bite.
If you find the chicken is a bit dry after cooking, consider adding a splash of chicken broth or additional enchilada sauce to moisten it. This will help keep your filling juicy and flavorful.
Customizing Your Filling
Feel free to customize your chicken enchilada filling by adding additional ingredients that suit your taste. Chopped bell peppers, onions, or even jalapeños can add a nice crunch and extra flavor. If you like it spicy, consider adding diced green chilies or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
For a creamier filling, mix in some cream cheese or sour cream just before serving. This will give your enchiladas a rich, creamy texture that elevates the overall dish.
Serving Suggestions
When serving your chicken enchilada filling, consider pairing it with fresh ingredients like diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and sliced avocados for a refreshing contrast. A squeeze of lime juice over the top can brighten up the flavors and make each bite even more delightful.
Don’t forget about toppings! Cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro can elevate the dish and provide that perfect finishing touch. Experiment with different toppings to find your favorite combination, ensuring each meal is uniquely satisfying.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time to 7-8 hours on low.
→ Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.
→ What can I serve with this filling?
This filling is great in tacos, burritos, or served over rice. You can also add toppings like avocado, cilantro, or sour cream.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling
This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Slow-cooked to perfection, this dish is both flavorful and easy to prepare.
Created by: Lacey Montgomery
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
How-To Steps
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
Layer the black beans, corn, and enchilada sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds.
Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks and mix with the other ingredients.
Use the filling for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas. Top with cheese if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 10g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 32g