Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling is a delicious and easy way to enjoy your favorite Mexican flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish will have everyone coming back for seconds.
This easy-to-make crockpot chicken enchilada filling is a crowd-pleaser that combines tender chicken, zesty spices, and rich flavors. Whether you're hosting a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Tender chicken cooked to perfection with zesty enchilada flavors
- Easy, hands-off cooking with minimal prep time
- Versatile filling perfect for enchiladas, tacos, or burritos
Perfect for Busy Families
In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal can be challenging. This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling is designed with busy families in mind. Simply add the ingredients to your crockpot in the morning, and by dinner time, you'll have a flavorful meal ready to serve. With minimal prep time, it's the perfect solution for those hectic weeknights when everyone is rushing home.
Not only does this recipe save time, but it also brings the family together around the dinner table. The enticing aroma that fills your home while the filling cooks will have everyone eagerly anticipating mealtime. Plus, the convenience of a one-pot meal means less cleanup, allowing you to spend more quality time with your loved ones.
Flavorful and Versatile
One of the standout features of this chicken enchilada filling is its incredible versatility. While it’s perfect for enchiladas, it can also be used as a filling for tacos, burritos, or even served over rice for a quick and hearty bowl meal. The zesty flavors of cumin and chili powder complement the tender chicken beautifully, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
This recipe allows for customization based on your family’s preferences. Feel free to swap out the black beans for pinto beans, or add diced bell peppers for extra crunch. You can also adjust the spice level by adding jalapeños or using a spicier enchilada sauce. The possibilities are endless, ensuring that every meal feels fresh and exciting.
A Healthy Choice
Eating healthy doesn't mean sacrificing flavor, and this crockpot chicken enchilada filling is a perfect example. Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the black beans and corn, this dish provides a balanced meal that keeps you feeling full and satisfied. The use of fresh ingredients ensures that you're serving your family something nutritious without any additives or preservatives.
Moreover, this recipe can easily be modified to fit various dietary needs. If you're looking for a low-carb option, you can skip the tortillas and serve the filling over a bed of greens. For a gluten-free version, simply ensure your enchilada sauce is gluten-free. This adaptability makes it a great option for families with different dietary preferences.
Ingredients
For the Enchilada Filling
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 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 (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Place the boneless chicken breasts in the crockpot. Season with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Add the Sauce and Beans
Pour the enchilada sauce over the chicken. Add the black beans and corn, stirring to combine.
Cook the Filling
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through 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 mix well.
Add Cheese and Serve
Stir in the shredded cheese until melted. Serve the filling in tortillas, topped with chopped cilantro if desired.
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the spices and enchilada sauce overnight before cooking.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! This chicken enchilada filling stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the filling. Just let it cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to use it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead meal option for busy weeks.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your meal, consider serving the chicken enchilada filling with a variety of toppings. Fresh avocado, sour cream, and pico de gallo add a delightful burst of flavor and texture. Additionally, a squeeze of lime juice can brighten up the dish and balance the rich flavors.
For a complete meal, pair the enchilada filling with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh green salad. This not only enhances the dining experience but also adds more nutrients to your meal. Whether you're hosting a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, these serving suggestions will impress your guests and satisfy their cravings.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just add an extra hour to the cooking time.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ What can I serve with this filling?
This filling is great in enchiladas, tacos, burritos, or served over rice.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free enchilada sauce, this recipe is gluten-free.
Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling
This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling is a delicious and easy way to enjoy your favorite Mexican flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish will have everyone coming back for seconds.
What You'll Need
For the Enchilada Filling
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 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 (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
Place the boneless chicken breasts in the crockpot. Season with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Pour the enchilada sauce over the chicken. Add the black beans and corn, stirring to combine.
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and mix well.
Stir in the shredded cheese until melted. Serve the filling in tortillas, topped with chopped cilantro if desired.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the spices and enchilada sauce overnight before cooking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 620mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 30g