Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling

Name: Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 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 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling is the perfect blend of flavors and convenience, making it a go-to meal for busy families.

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2025-12-28T19:16:06.954Z

This recipe has been a family favorite for years. The combination of tender chicken, zesty enchilada sauce, and melty cheese creates a delicious filling that everyone loves.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Comforting and hearty meal that's easy to prepare
Flavor-packed filling that can be used in various dishes
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers

      

A Versatile Meal for Any Occasion

One of the greatest advantages of the Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling is its versatility. This filling can be used in a variety of dishes beyond traditional enchiladas. You can serve it inside soft tortillas for tacos, over a bed of rice for a hearty bowl, or even as a topping for nachos. It adapts beautifully to whatever you have on hand, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family.

Moreover, the filling can easily be customized to suit your family's taste preferences. If you'd like to add extra heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. For a fresher flavor, you could mix in some chopped bell peppers or onions. This recipe encourages creativity, allowing you to make it your own while still enjoying the comforting base of chicken and enchilada flavors.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Meal prepping can be a game-changer for busy families, and this crockpot chicken enchilada filling is an excellent choice for it. You can make a large batch and store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes it easy to grab and reheat during the week, ensuring you always have a delicious and satisfying meal on hand without the fuss of daily cooking.

Additionally, this filling freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and you'll have a quick meal solution ready for those nights when you don't feel like cooking. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. With this simple strategy, you can enjoy a homemade meal even on the busiest of days.

A Family-Friendly Favorite

Families love this recipe not just for its ease but also for its crowd-pleasing flavor. The combination of spices, beans, and cheese creates a savory filling that even picky eaters will enjoy. Plus, you can easily adjust the spice level to ensure everyone at the table is satisfied. This makes it a fantastic option for family dinners, where everyone can personalize their plate to their liking.

Another great aspect of this dish is that it encourages family involvement in the kitchen. Kids can help with simple tasks like shredding cheese or garnishing the dish with cilantro. This not only makes mealtime more enjoyable but also teaches them valuable cooking skills. Involving your children in the meal prep process helps create lasting memories and instills a love for home-cooked meals.

Ingredients

Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling Ingredients

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 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.

Add the Ingredients

Add black beans, corn, enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper on top of the chicken.

Cook the Mixture

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and stir to combine all ingredients. Add shredded cheese on top and let it melt for a few minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the filling in tortillas, over rice, or with tortilla chips. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Tips for Success

To ensure your chicken enchilada filling turns out perfectly, it's essential to use high-quality ingredients. Fresh chicken breasts will yield the best flavor and texture. Opting for low-sodium canned beans and tomatoes can help you better control the saltiness of the dish.

Another tip is to let the filling sit for a few minutes after cooking before shredding the chicken. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste. Additionally, if you prefer a thicker consistency, you can reduce the amount of enchilada sauce or add a cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving this delicious filling, the options are endless. You can create a taco bar by providing various toppings such as avocado, sour cream, salsa, and shredded lettuce for a fun, interactive meal. Alternatively, serve it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for a wholesome, balanced dinner.

For a lighter option, consider using lettuce wraps instead of tortillas. This substitution not only adds a refreshing crunch but also reduces the carb count, making it a great choice for health-conscious family members. Don't forget to sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for an added burst of flavor!

Storage and Reheating

Proper storage is key to maintaining the delicious flavor of your crockpot chicken enchilada filling. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. If you're reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw overnight for the best results.

For optimal flavor, try to consume the filling within four days of cooking. If you notice any changes in texture or smell, it's best to err on the side of caution and discard it. By following these simple storage tips, you can enjoy this delightful dish multiple times throughout the week!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by about an hour.

→ Can this recipe be made in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with the chicken enchilada filling?

This filling is versatile and can be served in tortillas, over rice, or even as a dip with tortilla chips.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with extra black beans or lentils for a delicious vegetarian option.