This Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Casserole is a perfect blend of convenience and flavor, ideal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With tender shredded chicken, hearty corn tortillas, and a savory enchilada sauce, it’s a dish that practically cooks itself.
Just set your slow cooker, let the ingredients meld together, and come home to a comforting, cheesy meal that’s ready to enjoy. Simple, satisfying, and full of delicious Mexican-inspired flavors!
Crock Pot Chicken Enchilada Casserole
Ingredients
2 lbs. boneless chicken breasts (3-4 breasts)
1 large can enchilada sauce
10 yellow corn tortillas
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
1 small can black olives, drained
Instructions
Step 1:
Place the chicken breasts into the slow cooker.
Pour the enchilada sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated by turning them a few times.
Step 2:
Set the slow cooker to high and let the chicken cook for 4 hours. Once done, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker.
Step 3:
Cut the corn tortillas into small, bite-sized pieces.
Add the tortilla pieces to the slow cooker and gently stir to mix them with the chicken.
Step 4:
Add ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese and half of the drained black olives to the slow cooker.
Use a spatula to distribute the cheese and olives evenly, pressing down gently to combine.
Step 5:
Reduce the heat to low and cook for an additional 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition Information:
SERVING SIZE: 1
Amount Per Serving:
CALORIES: 160 | TOTAL FAT: 22g | SATURATED FAT: 12g | TRANS FAT: 10g | CHOLESTEROL: 140mg | SODIUM: 28mg | CARBOHYDRATES: 120g | SUGAR: 14g | PROTEIN: 12g
Notes:
Chicken Options: You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a richer flavor and slightly different texture. Ensure they’re boneless and skinless for best results.
Tortilla Alternatives: If you prefer, you can use flour tortillas instead of corn. Keep in mind that flour tortillas might become softer and less crispy.
Heat Level: Adjust the spiciness by using mild, medium, or hot enchilada sauce based on your preference. You can also add diced jalapeños or chili powder for extra heat.
Cheese Variations: Swap out cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack, Mexican blend, or another cheese of your choice to change up the flavor.
Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with black beans or pinto beans and add extra vegetables like bell peppers or corn.
Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Cook it the next day as per the recipe instructions.
Freezing: This dish freezes well. Cool completely, then store in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Serving Suggestions: Garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream. Serve with a side of Mexican rice or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
Consistency Adjustments: If you find the casserole too thick, you can add a splash of chicken broth or a little extra enchilada sauce to loosen it up.
Leftover Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Nutrition Information:
YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1
Calories: ~400 kcal | Protein: ~30 g | Total Fat: ~20 g | Saturated Fat: ~8 g | Trans Fat: ~0 g | Cholesterol: ~90 mg | Sodium: ~950 mg | Total Carbohydrates: ~30 g | Dietary Fiber: ~3 g | Sugars: ~5 g \ Calcium: ~300 mg | Iron: ~3 mg