Who can resist the mouthwatering combination of succulent chicken, zesty salsa, and creamy cheese all wrapped in soft tortillas? Are you looking for a dish that can be prepped ahead of time and left to cook while you get on with your day? Look no further than these Crockpot Chicken Enchiladas. The warm, complex flavors are as comforting as a cozy blanket, making this dish a perfect dinner choice for those chilly evenings.
Crockpot cooking is like a trusted friend, reliable and always there to lend a helping hand when needed. It allows for the flavors to entwine magically over time, creating a dish that is satisfying and packed full of flavor. But, have you ever thought about making enchiladas in the crockpot? The result is simply amazing!
The Magic of Crockpot Cooking
Crockpot, or slow cooker, is an amazing piece of kitchen equipment. It does the hard work for you, letting you have a break from standing over a hot stove. With slow, steady heat, it tenderizes the chicken and allows the flavors to meld together perfectly.
What’s more? It is perfect for those busy days when you simply do not have the time to cook. All you need to do is throw in the ingredients and let the crockpot do its magic. The result is a delicious, home-cooked meal without the fuss.
Why Chicken Enchiladas?
Chicken enchiladas are a classic Mexican dish that has become a staple in many households. With a filling of tender chicken, covered in a rich and flavorful sauce, and topped with generous amounts of cheese, they are a crowd-pleaser for both adults and kids alike.
Besides being incredibly delicious, they are also versatile. You can customize the filling and the sauce to your liking, making them a perfect dish for those with dietary restrictions or specific preferences.
The Perfect Enchilada Sauce
The secret to a great enchilada is its sauce. A well-made enchilada sauce has a balance of spicy, tangy, and sweet flavors that complement the chicken filling perfectly. The slow cooker allows these flavors to blend together over time, resulting in a sauce that is simply out of this world.
While you can always use store-bought sauce, homemade enchilada sauce is definitely worth the extra effort. It allows you to control the ingredients and adjust the flavors to your liking. Plus, it’s healthier and tastes much better!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken breasts
- 1 cup of your favorite salsa
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 1 can (4 oz) green chilies, drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 8-10 flour tortillas
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, avocados, chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- Add the salsa, enchilada sauce, green chilies, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Once the chicken is cooked, shred it using two forks.
- Divide the shredded chicken among the tortillas.
- Roll up each tortilla and place them in the crockpot.
- Top with the remaining sauce from the crockpot and the shredded cheese.
- Cover and cook on low for another 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
- Top with your favorite toppings and serve.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Tips for Crockpot Chicken Enchiladas
Always use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this dish as they are lean and become tender when slow-cooked. You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or corn to the filling for extra nutrition. If you want to give your enchiladas a smoky flavor, you can use chipotle salsa instead of regular salsa.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This Crockpot Chicken Enchiladas recipe is a must-try because it’s a flavorful, hearty, and convenient meal. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly. The result is chicken enchiladas that are incredibly moist, tasty, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a traditional Mexican dish with a twist!
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
- Sodium: 950mg
- Carbohydrate: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 30g