Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with our Crockpot Creamy Chicken Nachos recipe! Perfect for game days, movie nights, or any occasion where you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to a delicious snack, these nachos are loaded with creamy goodness and bursting with flavor. Plus, they’re made right in your crockpot, so you can set it and forget it while you enjoy the mouthwatering aroma filling your home.
Ingredients:
- 2 Cans Cream of Chicken Soup (10 oz each)
- 1 Can Black Beans, drained (completely optional)
- 1 can Rotel (whatever level of spice you desire) (14 oz can)
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar Cheese
- 2 large Chicken Breasts, diced
- Salt & Pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a slow cooker, combine the cream of chicken soup, drained black beans (if using), and Rotel.
- Season the diced chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the slow cooker.
- Stir everything together until the chicken is well coated in the creamy mixture.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the slow cooker. Stir well to combine the shredded chicken with the creamy sauce.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange your favorite tortilla chips on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Spoon the creamy chicken mixture over the tortilla chips, then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with your favorite toppings such as diced tomatoes, sliced jalapenos, chopped cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For added creaminess, you can mix in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the chicken mixture before serving.
- Customize your nachos by adding your favorite toppings such as sliced black olives, diced avocado, or pickled jalapenos.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, opt for a can of Rotel with diced tomatoes and green chilies labeled “hot” or “spicy.”
Keto Version:
For a keto-friendly twist on this recipe, make the following substitutions:
- Replace the cream of chicken soup with a homemade keto-friendly cream sauce made from heavy cream, cream cheese, and chicken broth.
- Omit the black beans to reduce the carb content.
- Serve the creamy chicken mixture over keto-friendly nacho chips made from cheese crisps or almond flour.
Low Carb Version:
To make a low-carb version of this recipe, follow the keto substitutions above and also:
- Choose a Rotel variety with no added sugar or opt for diced tomatoes and green chilies without added sugars.
- Use shredded cheese with less than 1 gram of carbs per serving or make your own cheese crisps to use as the base for the nachos.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use other types of beans in this recipe? Yes, you can substitute black beans with kidney beans, pinto beans, or any other beans you prefer. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the slow cooker.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the creamy chicken mixture in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the mixture on the stove or in the microwave, then assemble the nachos with your favorite toppings.
- What should I serve with these nachos? These creamy chicken nachos are delicious on their own but can also be served with additional sides for a complete meal. Consider pairing them with a side of guacamole, salsa, or a refreshing salad to balance out the flavors.
- Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze any leftover creamy chicken mixture for future use. Transfer the cooled mixture to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
- Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Absolutely! You can omit the chicken and double up on the black beans or add extra veggies like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to make a delicious vegetarian version of this dish.
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Nachos are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a cozy night in, or meal prepping for the week ahead, these nachos are sure to impress. With minimal effort required and endless opportunities for customization, they’re a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire. Try out the keto and low-carb versions for a healthier twist, and don’t forget to experiment with different toppings and variations to suit your taste preferences. So gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a deliciously cheesy and satisfying snack that everyone will love!
