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: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

This delicious Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling is a family favorite, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Bursting with flavors, it's sure to please everyone at the table.

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2025-12-30T00:55:05.435Z

This Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling has been a beloved family recipe for years. The slow cooking brings out the flavors, making it an easy and satisfying meal option. Serve it in tortillas, over rice, or with a sprinkle of cheese for a delicious dish everyone will enjoy.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Tender chicken infused with rich enchilada sauce
Simple preparation with minimal cleanup
Versatile filling for tacos, burritos, or bowls

      

A Flavorful Family Meal

Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling is not just another recipe; it’s a staple in many households. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in tender chicken that absorbs the rich, savory notes of the enchilada sauce. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to serve something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Moreover, the combination of black beans and corn adds not only flavor but also a wonderful texture and nutrition to this dish. You’ll find that this recipe is both satisfying and hearty, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or casual get-togethers with friends.

Versatility at Its Best

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. While it’s delicious served as is, the filling can be used in a variety of ways. Whether you prefer tacos, burritos, or a cozy bowl topped with your favorite fixings, this chicken enchilada filling adapts easily to your meal preferences.

You can also customize the toppings based on your family's favorites. From fresh avocado and cilantro to a drizzle of sour cream or a sprinkle of jalapeños, the possibilities are endless. This adaptability makes it a great recipe to have in your arsenal, catering to different taste preferences and dietary needs.

Easy Cleanup for Busy Cooks

One of the biggest advantages of using a crockpot is the minimal cleanup required. With this recipe, most of the cooking happens in one pot, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal and less time washing dishes. Simply layer your ingredients in the crockpot, set it, and forget it until dinner time.

This ease of preparation makes it an ideal choice for meal prepping. You can even prepare a double batch and freeze half for a quick meal later. Just reheat it, and you have a homemade dinner ready to go, making it perfect for busy weeks when time is limited.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a flavorful filling:

Ingredients

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can (15 oz) enchilada sauce
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)

Once you've prepared all the ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious filling:

Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.

Add Ingredients

Pour the enchilada sauce over the chicken, then add the black beans, corn, onion, garlic, cumin, and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper.

Cook

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

Shred and Serve

Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix well with the other ingredients. Sprinkle with cheese, cover, and let it melt before serving.

Enjoy this hearty filling in tortillas, on top of rice, or even on its own!

Cooking Tips

For best results, use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts. They will ensure that the dish is tender and flavorful. If you prefer dark meat, boneless skinless thighs work well too, adding a richer flavor to the filling.

Feel free to adjust the spices to cater to your family's taste. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix. This way, you can make the dish as mild or as spicy as you like.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Chicken Enchilada Filling with warm tortillas, rice, or even over a bed of greens for a lighter option. Adding a side of chips and guacamole can elevate the meal to a festive gathering, making it great for parties or game days.

If you want to make it even more special, consider setting up a toppings bar with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a variety of salsas. This interactive dining experience is sure to be a hit with family and guests alike.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Chicken Enchilada Filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in the freezer to avoid ice crystals.

When reheating, you can do so in the microwave or on the stovetop. If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results. This way, you’ll have a delicious, homemade meal ready in no time, even on the busiest days.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

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

→ What can I substitute for enchilada sauce?

You can use salsa or a homemade enchilada sauce if preferred.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free enchilada sauce and tortillas, this recipe is gluten-free.