Name: Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Shredded Cooked Chicken; 1/4 cup Sour Cream; 3/4 cup Shredded Taco Blend or Cheddar Cheese (divided); 3/4 cup Mozerrella or Pepper Jack Cheese (divided); 14 oz. Diced Green Chiles; 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Cilantro; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste Salt and Black Pepper; 8 6-inch Flour or Corn Tortillas; 10 oz. Enchilada Sauce (or 1 cup of homemade version here)

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There’s something truly heartwarming about a dish like Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas. I remember the first time I made these; it was a chilly winter evening, and I wanted to create something that felt like a warm hug. As the savory aroma filled my kitchen, memories of gatherings with family and friends flooded back. Each bite of the cheesy, flavorful enchiladas wrapped in soft tortillas transported me to cozy nights spent sharing stories and laughter. It’s amazing how food can connect us to our past and bring comfort in the present.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
60 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
380 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon, Blender, Slow Cooker, Frying Pan, Cutting Board

Why This Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas Stands Out

Comfort in Every Bite

These Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas are a celebration of comfort food. The combination of seasoned chicken, melted cheeses, and rich enchilada sauce creates a flavor explosion that makes your taste buds dance. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your household.

Easy to Prepare

One of the best aspects of this recipe is how simple it is. Just toss your ingredients into the slow cooker, and let it do the work! You can prep this dish in the morning and come home to an amazing aroma that fills your home. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want comfort food without all the fuss.

Customizable to Your Taste

Don’t be afraid to make these enchiladas your own! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add in vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. If you love a little heat, throw in some jalapeños for an extra kick. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to cater to your family’s preferences.

A Meal for Any Occasion

These enchiladas are perfect for a casual family dinner, a gathering with friends, or even a cozy date night at home. They also make fantastic leftovers, so you can enjoy the deliciousness all over again the next day!

Great for Meal Prep

If you’re someone who likes to meal prep, this dish is ideal. You can make a big batch and store it for later, saving you time and effort during the week. Just reheat and enjoy the comforting flavors.

Ingredients Required for Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas

Cooking is all about balance, and the ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas perfectly harmonize to create a delightful dish. The key players include tender chicken, creamy sour cream, and a blend of cheeses that bring richness to each bite, while the enchilada sauce adds that essential kick of flavor. Together, they create a hearty meal that’s perfect any time of the year.

1 cup shredded cooked chicken: This is the star of the dish, providing protein and flavor. Using cooked chicken saves time and makes the enchiladas super easy to assemble.
1/4 cup sour cream: Adds a creamy texture that balances the flavors and gives a delicious tang.
3/4 cup shredded taco blend or Cheddar Cheese, divided: This blend of cheeses melts beautifully and enhances the overall taste of the enchiladas.
3/4 cup mozzarella or Pepper Jack cheese, divided: For a stretchy, gooey texture, mozzarella is the way to go, whereas Pepper Jack can add a nice spice.
14 oz. can diced green chiles: These bring a mild heat and unique flavor that complements the other ingredients.
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: A fresh herb that adds brightness and an aromatic touch.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients.
8 6-inch flour or corn tortillas: The perfect wrap for all the delicious fillings, they provide a soft, chewy texture.
10 oz can of enchilada sauce, or 1 cup of homemade version here: The sauce binds everything together, adding moisture and flavor.

Putting Together Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas

Making Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas is a breeze, and the process is just as enjoyable as the final product. The best part is, once you have everything prepped, it all comes together in one pot. Let’s dive into the steps to create this delicious dish!

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, 1/2 cup taco blend cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella, sour cream, green chiles (reserving 2 teaspoons for topping), and chopped cilantro. Stir until everything is well blended. You want to ensure that all the ingredients are coated in the sour cream and flavors meld together beautifully.
Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. It’s important to taste and adjust the seasoning at this stage — you want to create a flavorful filling that will shine through in every bite.
Spread about 1/4 cup of enchilada sauce on the bottom of the slow cooker. This will prevent the enchiladas from sticking and add moisture as they cook.
Now, take a tortilla and spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture into the center. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place it seam side down in the slow cooker. Repeat until all the filling is used. Arrange the enchiladas snugly in the cooker so they hold their shape.
Once all enchiladas are in the slow cooker, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top. If you’re using canned sauce, reserve about 1/4 cup for later. Don’t skimp on the sauce; it’s what makes these enchiladas so juicy and flavorful.
Next, sprinkle the remaining taco blend and mozzarella over the enchiladas. This cheesy topping will melt beautifully and create a golden crust as they cook.
Cook on high for 60 to 75 minutes, or until the sauce bubbles and the cheese is melted. The actual time may vary depending on your slow cooker. Keep an eye on them; you want that cheesy goodness to be perfectly melted!
Once cooked, carefully remove the enchiladas using tongs. They may be hot, so be cautious! Garnish with the reserved diced green chiles, a dollop of sour cream, and some fresh cilantro if desired.
Serve warm, and enjoy the delightful flavors of your homemade Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas!

Things Worth Knowing

Slow Cooker Temperature: Make sure to adjust your slow cooker to the right temperature. High heat is essential for melting cheese and bubbling the sauce.
Texture Check: The enchiladas should be tender and the cheese melty but not overly so. If they feel too mushy, you may have overcooked them.
Layering Flavors: For enhanced flavor, consider adding additional spices like cumin or chili powder to the chicken mixture for a little more kick.
Serving Fresh: These enchiladas taste best when served fresh from the slow cooker. If possible, avoid letting them sit too long before serving.

Change It Up

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are endless ways to put your own spin on Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas. Here are some suggestions to get you started:

Storage: Leftover enchiladas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to cover them tightly to maintain freshness.
Freezing: If you want to prepare these in advance, they freeze exceptionally well. Just wrap them tightly in foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to three months.
Pairing: Consider serving these enchiladas with a refreshing salad or some homemade guacamole. The coolness of the guacamole complements the warm flavors of the enchiladas.
Cheese Variation: Experiment with different cheeses. A spicy pepper jack adds a nice heat, while a mild queso fresco provides a creamy texture.
Vegetarian Option: To make these enchiladas vegetarian, swap the chicken for black beans or a mix of your favorite vegetables. It’s a delicious alternative!

Serving Options for Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas

When it comes to serving Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas, there’s so much to explore! Here are some ideas to make your meal even more enjoyable:

Side Dishes: Pair your enchiladas with a fresh Mexican rice or refried beans to complement the flavors and create a hearty meal.
Garnishes: Serve with toppings like diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, or pickled jalapeños for an extra burst of flavor.
Occasions: These enchiladas make for a fantastic weeknight dinner, but they’re also great for entertaining — perfect for game nights or casual gatherings.
Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be reheated in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Seasonal Pairings: In the winter, enjoy these with a side of warm, spiced cider; during the summer, a chilled drink like iced tea complements the rich flavors nicely.

FAQ

Absolutely! Using store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds fantastic flavor to your Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas. Just shred the chicken and mix it with the other ingredients as directed. It’ll make your cooking process even easier while still delivering a delicious result!

If you love heat, there are several ways to kick up the spice level in your Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas. Consider adding diced jalapeños to the filling or using spicy enchilada sauce. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving. These small adjustments can add that extra zing you’re looking for!

Yes! You can definitely prepare the filling for your Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply assemble the enchiladas and place them in the slow cooker. This makes it a perfect dish for busy weeknights!

There are loads of delicious options to serve alongside your Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas. Consider a fresh salad, some homemade guacamole, or even a side of Mexican rice. These pair beautifully and will help round out your meal, making it a satisfying dining experience!

Conclusion

In summary, Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas are a delightful, comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. With their easy preparation and delicious taste, these enchiladas are sure to become a favorite in your home. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the joy it brings to your mealtime!