Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling is the perfect blend of flavors and convenience, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
This Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling is a family favorite that combines tender chicken with a zesty enchilada sauce. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or served over rice, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the dinner table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup
- Rich and savory flavors that everyone will enjoy
- Versatile filling for various Mexican dishes
A Convenient Weeknight Solution
When life gets busy, the last thing you want to worry about is dinner. This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling offers a simple, hands-off cooking method that fits perfectly into a hectic schedule. With just a few minutes of prep in the morning, you can set your crockpot and let it work its magic. By the time you’re ready to eat, you’ll have a delicious, satisfying meal waiting for you. No more rushing around the kitchen after a long day!
The beauty of using a crockpot is that it allows flavors to meld beautifully over time. The combination of spices and the savory enchilada sauce infuses the chicken with a depth of flavor that is hard to beat. This dish not only saves you time but also ensures that you are serving your family a hearty meal packed with wholesome ingredients.
Versatile Meal Options
One of the best aspects of this enchilada filling is its versatility. While it’s perfect for traditional enchiladas, you can use this flavorful filling in a variety of ways. Serve it in soft or crispy tortillas, over a bed of rice, or even in a taco salad for a fresh twist. The possibilities are endless, making it an ideal option for families with varying tastes and preferences.
Additionally, this recipe can easily be adapted to include your favorite vegetables or ingredients. Want to add bell peppers for an extra crunch? Go for it! Feel free to customize the flavor profile by adjusting the spices or adding different types of beans. This flexibility ensures that you'll never get bored with this meal, making it a staple recipe in your household.
Healthy and Delicious
Eating healthy doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. This crockpot enchilada filling is packed with lean protein from the chicken and fiber from the black beans and corn. Using fresh or frozen ingredients allows you to control the quality of what you’re serving your family. Plus, the spices provide a robust flavor without the need for excessive salt or unhealthy additives.
By incorporating this dish into your weekly meal rotation, you can enjoy a nutritious meal that satisfies even the pickiest of eaters. The balance of proteins, carbs, and veggies ensures that everyone leaves the table happy and full. With this recipe, you can feel good about what you’re feeding your family.
Ingredients
For the Enchilada Filling
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Mix and match ingredients to suit your taste!
Cooking Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot.
Add Ingredients
Pour the enchilada sauce over the chicken. Add the diced onion, corn, black beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and shreds easily with a fork.
Shred the Chicken
After cooking, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot and stir to combine with the sauce and other ingredients.
Serve
Top with shredded cheese and let it melt before serving. Enjoy in tortillas, on rice, or by itself!
Enjoy your delicious enchilada filling!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers from the Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling store well in the refrigerator for up to four days. Simply transfer the cooled filling into an airtight container to keep it fresh. This makes it perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the delicious flavors throughout the week.
When it comes to reheating, simply warm the filling in a microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You can also use it as a filling for burritos or quesadillas. The flavors actually deepen and improve after sitting for a day, making the leftovers just as enjoyable as the freshly made dish!
Customization Ideas
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! If you’re looking for a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. For a more Southwest flair, mix in some roasted red peppers or a sprinkle of smoked paprika. You can also substitute the chicken for shredded beef or turkey for a different protein option.
For a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken with extra beans or sautéed vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. This way, everyone can enjoy a delicious meal that caters to their dietary preferences while still delivering on flavor.
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 ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge until you're ready to cook.
→ What can I serve with this filling?
This filling is great in tacos, burritos, or served over rice or quinoa.
→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with mushrooms or extra beans for a delicious vegetarian option.
Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling
This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling is the perfect blend of flavors and convenience, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
Created by: Eleanor Briggs
Recipe Type: Global Flavors
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Enchilada Filling
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
How-To Steps
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot.
Pour the enchilada sauce over the chicken. Add the diced onion, corn, black beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and shreds easily with a fork.
After cooking, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot and stir to combine with the sauce and other ingredients.
Top with shredded cheese and let it melt before serving. Enjoy in tortillas, on rice, or by itself!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 550mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 9g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 28g