Name: Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Casserole: 7 Irresistible Flavors
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h 30 min
Total time: 4 h 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breast); 1 teaspoon avocado oil; 1/2 medium onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 2 cups homemade enchilada sauce or 16 ounce jarred enchilada sauce; 1/4 cup sour cream (plus more for serving); 1/4 cup water; 15 ounce can low-sodium black beans, rinsed and drained; 4 corn tortillas, cut into strips; 4 ounces shredded cheese (Mexican cheese blend, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella, about 1 cup); Sliced jalapeño peppers (for topping); Chopped fresh cilantro (for topping); Sliced avocado (for serving); Crema or sour cream (for serving); Cilantro lime rice (optional, for serving)

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Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada is a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. This recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional enchiladas, turning them into a hearty casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken thighs simmered in a savory sauce, combined with crispy corn tortillas and melted cheese, it’s a true family favorite. Let’s dive into how to make this delectable meal!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada

This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly convenient. Here are some reasons to love it:

Quick preparation time ensures you can have dinner ready in no time.
Perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy leftovers.
A family-friendly recipe that caters to all taste buds.
Can be customized with your favorite toppings and sauces.
Healthy option using lean chicken and whole ingredients.
Gluten-free variations are possible, accommodating dietary needs.
As a one-pot slow cooker chicken enchiladas recipe, cleanup is a breeze.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada

Gather these items:

1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breast)
1 teaspoon avocado oil
1/2 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 cups homemade enchilada sauce or 16-ounce jarred enchilada sauce
1/4 cup sour cream (plus more for serving)
1/4 cup water
15-ounce can low-sodium black beans, rinsed and drained
4 corn tortillas, cut into strips
4 ounces shredded cheese (Mexican cheese blend, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella, about 1 cup)
Sliced jalapeño peppers (for topping)
Chopped fresh cilantro (for topping)
Sliced avocado (for serving)
Crema or sour cream (for serving)
Cilantro lime rice (optional, for serving)

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, ground cumin, and kosher salt. Cook while stirring until the onion softens and turns golden brown, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Transfer the sautéed onion mixture to the slow cooker. Add enchilada sauce, sour cream, and 1/4 cup water. Stir well to combine, then fold in the rinsed and drained black beans.
Step 3: Nestle the boneless chicken thighs into the sauce mixture in the slow cooker, submerging them partially to absorb flavor.
Step 4: Cover and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or on low for 6 to 7 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through. Shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks.
Step 5: Stir in the corn tortilla strips into the shredded chicken mixture. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top, then cover again and cook for an additional 30 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted.
Step 6: Garnish the casserole with sliced jalapeños, chopped fresh cilantro, and any optional toppings like crema or sour cream and sliced avocado.
Step 7: Serve the enchilada casserole over cilantro lime rice if desired, adding extra sour cream or avocado on top for creaminess and balance.

Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Casserole: 7 Irresistible Flavors - Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada

Keep these in mind:

For extra flavor, add spices like chili powder or paprika.
Use store-bought enchilada sauce for convenience.
Customize toppings based on your preference for a personal touch.
Ensure chicken is fully submerged for the best flavor infusion.

Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada

Here are some serving ideas:

Pair with cilantro lime rice for a complete meal.
Top with extra cheese and fresh avocado for a creamy finish.
Serve alongside a fresh salad for a lighter option.

How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada

To store, place the enchilada casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or reheat in the slow cooker on low until heated through. This makes meal prep easy and convenient!

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada

What’s the secret to perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada?

The secret lies in the slow cooking process, which allows the chicken to absorb the rich flavors of the enchilada sauce and spices. Using fresh ingredients, including a savory homemade enchilada sauce, enhances the taste.

Can I make Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Simply assemble in the slow cooker the next day and cook as directed.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada?

To avoid dryness, ensure the chicken is fully submerged in the sauce during cooking. Additionally, avoid overcooking, as this can lead to tough chicken. Follow the recommended cook times for best results.

Variations of Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada You Can Try

Here are some delicious alternatives:

For a spicy kick, try spicy slow cooker chicken enchiladas by adding more jalapeños.
Make gluten-free slow cooker chicken enchiladas using corn tortillas.
For a creamy twist, add cream cheese to the mixture for creamy slow cooker chicken enchiladas.
Experiment with different sauces like green enchilada sauce for a unique flavor profile.

For more delicious recipes, check out creamy chicken enchiladas or slow cooker chili for a comforting meal.