Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas
Craving a tasty and effortless weeknight meal? These slow cooker chicken enchiladas are just the thing! They’re packed with succulent, juicy chicken and a tasty sauce, and they’ll satisfy your Mexican food cravings without any hassle.
Just throw the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it do the work. After a few hours, you’ll have a delicious meal that the whole family will enjoy.
So get your tortillas ready and prepare for a fiesta of flavors!
Origin
Slow cooker chicken enchiladas have their origins in traditional Mexican cuisine. Corn tortillas, a staple of the ancient Mayan and Aztec civilizations, were combined with various meats, including chicken, to create the dish that’s now known as enchiladas.
The slow cooker method of preparing enchiladas became popular in the United States in the mid-20th century as it offered a convenient and easy way to cook the dish.
Even today, slow cooker chicken enchiladas remain a favorite among families who enjoy an appetizing and effortless meal.
Ingredients
To make slow cooker chicken enchiladas, you’ll need to gather a few essential ingredients. These items will form the foundation of your dish and bring together all the flavors.
Here is what you’ll need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – these will be juicy and packed with flavor.
- Enchilada sauce – this sauce will provide a rich and savory flavor.
- Tortillas – for a soft and pliable texture.
These three ingredients will give you a delicious meal that’s sure to impress.
To take it up a notch, feel free to add your favorite toppings such as cheese, sour cream, or guacamole.
Instructions
Now it’s time to make these delicious slow cooker chicken enchiladas.
- Prepare the chicken filling:
- Put chicken breasts, diced tomatoes, green chilies, onion, garlic, cumin, and chili powder into a slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and easy to shred.
- Use two forks to shred the chicken and mix it with the cooking liquid.
- Assemble the enchiladas:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Place some of the chicken filling on a tortilla, roll it up, and place it seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Do the same with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas, making sure they’re completely covered.
- Bake and serve:
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the enchiladas are heated through and the sauce is bubbly.
- Add desired toppings such as cheese, sour cream, and cilantro.
- Serve warm and enjoy these flavorful slow cooker chicken enchiladas!
Tips for Cooking
For the best results, follow these suggestions when making slow cooker chicken enchiladas.
| Tips for Cooking Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas |
|---|
| 1. Employ boneless, skinless chicken breasts for juicy and tender meat. |
| 2. Season the chicken with Mexican spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika for a genuine flavor. |
| 3. Sauté the onions and garlic before placing them in the slow cooker for added flavor. |
| 4. Place the enchilada sauce, chicken, and cheese in the slow cooker for even distribution of flavors. |
| 5. Top the enchiladas with extra cheese and let them cook on low heat for 4-6 hours to let the flavors blend together. |
Final Thoughts
Reflecting on the tips for cooking slow cooker chicken enchiladas, it’s apparent how simple and tasty this dish is. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to blend together, creating tender and juicy chicken with the perfect enchilada sauce.
Topping off the dish with melted cheese gives a creamy and gooey texture that will have your mouth watering.
The convenience of using a slow cooker also means that you can prepare this dish in advance and come home to a delicious meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Beef Instead of Chicken in This Recipe?
Sure, you can substitute beef for chicken in this recipe. It will give the enchiladas a different taste, but it should still be delicious. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
How Long Can I Store the Leftovers in the Refrigerator?
You can keep the leftovers in the fridge for up to three to four days. Make sure to put them in an airtight container before refrigerating to keep them fresh and avoid spoilage.
Can I Freeze the Enchiladas for Later Use?
Yes, you can definitely store the enchiladas in the freezer for later. Make sure to wrap them securely in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent ice buildup. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw and reheat!
Can I Use Store-Bought Enchilada Sauce Instead of Making It From Scratch?
Yes, you can absolutely substitute store-bought enchilada sauce instead of making it from scratch. It’s a great time saver and will still give your Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas that amazing flavor.
Can I Substitute the Corn Tortillas for Flour Tortillas?
Yes, you can absolutely switch out the corn tortillas for flour tortillas in the recipe. While the flavor and texture may be slightly different, it should still turn out great for your slow cooker chicken enchiladas.
