Introduction
Crockpot Chicken Enchiladas bring all the bold, comforting flavors of traditional enchiladas with the ease of slow cooking. Tender shredded chicken is simmered in a rich enchilada sauce, layered with tortillas and cheese, then slow-cooked until bubbly and flavorful. This dish has all the goodness of a baked enchilada casserole but without the fuss of standing over the stove or oven.
The crockpot does the heavy lifting—keeping the chicken juicy and infusing every bite with smoky, spicy, cheesy deliciousness. It’s a true crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving it for family dinner, game day, or a casual potluck.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it combines two things I adore: comfort food and convenience. Enchiladas are one of my favorite Mexican-inspired dishes, but making them the traditional way can be time-consuming. With this crockpot version, I get all the classic flavors—savory chicken, melty cheese, zesty sauce—without the extra effort.
Another reason I love it is its versatility. You can customize it with black beans, corn, or different cheeses, and you can adjust the spice level easily. Plus, it’s a hearty, filling meal that leaves everyone satisfied.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
- Set-it-and-forget-it meal – Perfect for busy days.
- Family favorite – Kids and adults love it.
- Customizable – Adjust spice, fillings, or toppings.
- Perfect for leftovers – Reheats beautifully.
- Mexican-inspired comfort food – Flavor-packed and satisfying.
Recipe Details
- Cuisine: Mexican-American (Tex-Mex inspired)
- Course: Main Course / Dinner
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4–6 hours (low) or 2–3 hours (high)
- Total Time: 4–6 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6–8
- Calories: ~380 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 cups enchilada sauce (red or green)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- ½ cup sour cream (for serving)
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Simple Cooking Directions
- Cook chicken, onions, and spices in the crockpot with enchilada sauce.
- Shred chicken, then add beans and corn.
- Layer tortillas, chicken mixture, and cheese in the crockpot.
- Cook until bubbly and cheese is melted.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare Chicken Base
- Place chicken, onions, cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper, and enchilada sauce in the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours until chicken is tender.
Step 2: Shred Chicken
- Remove chicken, shred with two forks, then return to the sauce.
- Stir in black beans and corn.
Step 3: Assemble Layers
- Line the bottom of the crockpot with tortillas.
- Spread chicken mixture over tortillas, then sprinkle with cheese.
- Repeat layers until ingredients are used, finishing with cheese on top.
Step 4: Cook Final Layer
- Cover and cook on low for 30–45 minutes, until cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Garnish
- Top with fresh cilantro before serving.
How to Serve
- Serve hot, topped with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa.
- Pair with Mexican rice or a fresh green salad.
- Offer lime wedges for a zesty finish.
Additional Recipe Tips
- Spray crockpot with nonstick spray before layering to prevent sticking.
- Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for an even quicker version.
- Add jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.
- Warm tortillas slightly before layering to prevent tearing.
Variations
- Vegetarian Enchiladas – Replace chicken with extra beans, sautéed peppers, and zucchini.
- Green Chile Enchiladas – Use green enchilada sauce and Monterey Jack cheese.
- Creamy Enchiladas – Mix ½ cup sour cream or cream cheese into the chicken filling.
- Low-Carb Option – Swap tortillas for low-carb wraps or zucchini slices.
Freezing & Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked enchiladas in portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm in microwave, oven, or crockpot until heated through.
Special Equipment Needed
- Crockpot / slow cooker
- Mixing bowls
- Forks for shredding chicken
- Ladle or spoon for serving
Conclusion
Crockpot Chicken Enchiladas are a stress-free way to enjoy all the flavors of a classic Mexican favorite. The chicken turns out tender and flavorful, the cheese melts into gooey perfection, and every bite is comforting and satisfying. It’s customizable, family-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. Once you try it, this will become one of your go-to crockpot recipes
Crockpot Chicken Enchiladas
Description
Crockpot Chicken Enchiladas bring all the bold, comforting flavors of traditional enchiladas with the ease of slow cooking. Tender shredded chicken is simmered in a rich enchilada sauce, layered with tortillas and cheese, then slow-cooked until bubbly and flavorful.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Step 1: Prepare Chicken Base : Place chicken, onions, cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper, and enchilada sauce in the crockpot.Cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours until chicken is tender.
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Step 2: Shred Chicken : Remove chicken, shred with two forks, then return to the sauce. Stir in black beans and corn.
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Step 3: Assemble Layers : Line the bottom of the crockpot with tortillas.Spread chicken mixture over tortillas, then sprinkle with cheese.Repeat layers until ingredients are used, finishing with cheese on top.
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Step 4: Cook Final Layer : Cover and cook on low for 30–45 minutes, until cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
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Step 5: Garnish : Top with fresh cilantro before serving.
