Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting meal that’s both delicious and easy to prepare, you’ll love this Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas recipe.
I can’t get enough of how simple it’s to throw everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic. The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a dish that warms the soul.
Plus, the shredding of the chicken is so satisfying! When I roll up those tortillas, I feel a sense of accomplishment.
Topped with cheese and baked to perfection, these enchiladas are a hit at every gathering. Trust me, you’ll want to make them again and again!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas
When it comes to whipping up a delicious meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table, these Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas are a fantastic choice. They’re not just easy to make, but they also come packed with flavor and warmth, making them perfect for any occasion.
Plus, the best part? You can toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do all the heavy lifting. Who doesn’t love the smell of delicious chicken simmering away? You’ll be tempted to sneak a taste before you even get to the rolling part.
So, let’s explore the ingredients you’ll need to create this tasty dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 lbs chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 teaspoons taco seasoning
- 2 cups enchilada sauce
- 16 corn tortillas or 16 flour tortillas
- 2 cups Mexican cheese or 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup sour cream or 1/2 cup plain yogurt
Now, let’s chat about these ingredients. First off, you’ve got the chicken, which is the star of the show. Feel free to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for convenience, or even throw in some thighs if you’re feeling adventurous—thighs can add a deeper flavor.
Don’t skimp on the enchilada sauce; it’s what brings the whole dish together. You can also play around with the cheese—Mexican cheese blend gives a nice kick, but cheddar works just as well if that’s what you’ve got on hand.
And if you’re someone who likes a little extra zing, don’t hesitate to toss in some diced jalapeños or extra spices. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and finding what you love.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas
Now that you have gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to plunge into the wonderful world of making Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas. The first step is to take your 1 1/2 lbs of chicken breasts and place them in your slow cooker. Yes, just toss them in there!
After that, add in 1/2 cup of salsa, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, your chopped 1/2 onion, and 2 teaspoons of taco seasoning. It’s almost like a cozy little chicken spa in there. Set your slow cooker to high and let it work its magic for about four hours. The house will smell like a fiesta, and you might find yourself peeking in just to steal a whiff—or maybe even a piece of chicken to snack on.
Once the cooking time is up, it’s time to shred that chicken. You can use two forks; it’s therapeutic and also a great way to release any pent-up frustration from the day. After shredding, preheat your oven to a warm 350°F.
Now, grab two 9 x 13 pans and coat the bottoms with some of that luscious enchilada sauce—this is where the flavor starts to build. While you’re at it, microwave your tortillas—16 of them—wrapped in paper towels for about 30 seconds. This makes them nice and pliable, so they won’t crack when you roll them up.
Now comes the fun part: assembling your enchiladas! Take a tortilla, spread about 1 tablespoon of enchilada sauce over it, and add a generous 1/4 cup of that shredded chicken. Roll it up tightly, making sure the folded sides are tucked underneath—think of it as giving the enchilada a snug little blanket.
Place it seam-side down in the prepared pan and repeat until you’ve rolled up all your tortillas. Once you’ve lined them up like little soldiers, pour the remaining enchilada sauce on top and sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheese all over.
Bake those beauties in the oven for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden. When it’s time to serve, don’t forget to garnish with a dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt and a splash of salsa. Voilà! You’ve just crafted a delicious meal that will make you feel like a culinary hero.
Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas Substitutions & Variations
While I love the classic Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas, there’s always room for creativity in the kitchen.
If you’re looking to mix things up, try using shredded beef or black beans instead of chicken for a different protein. You can also swap the corn tortillas for whole wheat or flour tortillas based on your preference.
For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or swap in a spicy salsa. Don’t forget about the cheese; pepper jack adds a delightful twist!
Finally, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier option. Get creative and enjoy your unique enchiladas!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas
Pairing the right sides with Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas can elevate your meal to a whole new level.
I love serving these enchiladas with a fresh, zesty Mexican corn salad. It adds a crunchy contrast that complements the soft tortillas beautifully.
A side of guacamole and tortilla chips is another favorite of mine; it’s perfect for dipping and adds a creamy element.
Don’t forget a simple green salad with lime vinaigrette to balance the richness.
Finally, a side of refried beans can round out the meal, providing extra protein and heartiness that pairs wonderfully with the enchiladas.
Enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas turn out perfectly, I recommend a few key tips.
First, don’t skip the shredding step; it makes a huge difference in texture. Use fresh tortillas for a better wrap and flavor.
If you prefer a spicier kick, add more taco seasoning or jalapeños. Be sure to coat the tortillas with sauce before filling them; it prevents sogginess.
Finally, let your enchiladas rest for a few minutes after baking—this helps them set up nicely.
Enjoy experimenting with different cheeses or toppings to make it uniquely yours! Happy cooking!