Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling is a delicious and easy way to bring the flavors of Mexico to your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings!
This recipe is a family favorite, bringing everyone together for a comforting and flavorful meal. With the convenience of a crockpot, you can enjoy tender chicken and rich enchilada sauce with minimal effort.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare and perfect for busy days
- Rich and flavorful with authentic Mexican spices
- Versatile filling for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas
A Flavorful Journey
The Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling is more than just a meal; it's an experience that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico into your home. With a blend of spices and tender chicken, every bite is bursting with flavor. This recipe is perfect for families who want to enjoy a hearty dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
This dish is an excellent way to introduce your family to the rich culinary traditions of Mexican cuisine. It combines wholesome ingredients with authentic flavors, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy it. The use of a crockpot makes it incredibly convenient, allowing you to set it and forget it while you tackle other tasks.
Meal Prep Made Easy
One of the best features of this crockpot recipe is its versatility in meal prep. You can easily double the batch and freeze the extra filling for future use. This saves time during busy weeks, allowing you to simply defrost and reheat the filling whenever you're ready for a quick meal.
Whether you're preparing for a family gathering or just a busy week ahead, this recipe can adapt to your needs. You can use the filling in various dishes, from enchiladas to burritos or even as a topping for nachos. This flexibility ensures that you won't tire of the same meal, making it a staple in your dinner rotation.
Garnishes and Serving Suggestions
To elevate your meal, consider adding a variety of garnishes. Fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and flavor, while a squeeze of lime can brighten the dish. For a creamy touch, avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream pair perfectly with the spicy filling.
You can also serve the filling alongside sides like Mexican rice or a fresh garden salad to create a complete meal that the whole family will love. Experimenting with different toppings and sides will keep this dish exciting and enjoyable for everyone.
Ingredients
For the Enchilada Filling
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Combine all ingredients in the crockpot for a hassle-free meal!
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Start by dicing the onion and mincing the garlic. Drain and rinse the black beans, and if using frozen corn, let it thaw.
Combine Everything in the Crockpot
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Add the enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Cook the Filling
Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, add the cheese, and stir until melted.
Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve the filling in tacos, burritos, or enchiladas!
Enjoy your delicious homemade enchilada filling!
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This filling also freezes well; just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to three months, making it a great option for meal prepping.
When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen filling, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. This ensures that you can enjoy the flavors of this delicious dish any time you want.
Customization Options
Feel free to customize the filling to suit your taste preferences. Substitute the chicken with shredded beef, turkey, or even a meatless option like lentils or tofu for a vegetarian version. You can also adjust the spice levels by adding diced jalapeños or using a spicier enchilada sauce.
Adding different vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability, allowing you to make it your own while still enjoying the comforting essence of a classic enchilada filling.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free enchilada sauce and tortillas.
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the fridge until you're ready to serve.
→ What can I serve with this filling?
This filling is great in tacos, burritos, or served over rice with toppings like avocado and sour cream.
Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling
This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling is a delicious and easy way to bring the flavors of Mexico to your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings!
Created by: Abigail Foster
Recipe Type: Global Flavors
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Enchilada Filling
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
How-To Steps
Start by dicing the onion and mincing the garlic. Drain and rinse the black beans, and if using frozen corn, let it thaw.
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Add the enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, add the cheese, and stir until melted.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve the filling in tacos, burritos, or enchiladas!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 7g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 25g