Are you craving a comforting and flavorful meal that requires minimal effort? Look no further than the Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Casserole! This delightful dish combines tender chicken, rich enchilada sauce, and gooey cheese to create a mouthwatering casserole that’s sure to please the whole family. Best of all, it’s made in the slow cooker, allowing you to set it and forget it until dinner time. So let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make this delicious dinner sensation!
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs. boneless skinless raw chicken breasts (don’t use any more than 1.5 pounds, the casserole will seem dry if you do).
- 28 oz. can Red Enchilada Sauce (I use El Pato Brand or Los Palmas)
Add these items at the end:
- 10 corn tortillas (I use a 10-12 oz. package of soft corn tortillas).
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese, divided
- 3.8 oz. can black olives, divided
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Pour the red enchilada sauce over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated.
Cooking the Chicken
- Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Assembling the Casserole
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix it with the enchilada sauce.
Layering the Casserole
- Cut the corn tortillas into quarters.
- Layer half of the tortilla quarters on top of the chicken mixture in the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle half of the grated cheddar cheese and half of the black olives over the tortillas.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining tortilla quarters, cheese, and black olives.
Finalizing the Casserole
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for an additional 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once done, serve the chicken enchilada casserole hot and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations
- Add-Ons: Feel free to customize your enchilada casserole with additional toppings such as diced onions, jalapenos, or diced tomatoes.
- Spice it Up: If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add a can of diced green chilies to the chicken mixture before cooking.
- Tortilla Options: If you prefer flour tortillas or have dietary restrictions, you can substitute them for the corn tortillas.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
Keto Version
- Substitute the corn tortillas with low-carb tortillas or thinly sliced zucchini for a keto-friendly option.
- Use a homemade keto-friendly enchilada sauce or a store-bought low-carb version to reduce the carb content.
- Replace the black olives with sliced avocado or diced bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
Low-Carb Version
- Use low-carb tortillas or lettuce leaves as a wrap instead of corn tortillas.
- Choose a low-carb enchilada sauce or make your own using tomato sauce, chili powder, and spices.
- Swap the black olives for diced green onions or chopped cilantro for a lower-carb option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I freeze leftover enchilada casserole? A: Yes, leftover enchilada casserole can be frozen for future meals. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in a preheated oven until warmed through.
Q: Can I add beans or rice to the casserole? A: Certainly! You can add cooked black beans or pinto beans, as well as cooked rice, to the casserole for added protein and texture.
Q: Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken in the slow cooker? A: Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can save you time and effort. Simply shred the chicken and mix it with the enchilada sauce before layering it in the slow cooker.
The Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Casserole is a delicious and convenient meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With its tender chicken, flavorful enchilada sauce, and cheesy goodness, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling satisfied. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just feeding your family, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. So why wait? Grab your slow cooker and ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to become a new favorite in your household!
Elevate your dinner game with the Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Casserole and treat yourself to a delicious and hassle-free meal that’s bursting with flavor. With its simple preparation and satisfying results, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion. So go ahead, give it a try, and prepare to be amazed by the incredible taste and convenience of this delightful casserole. Bon appétit!
