Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of the Southwest with this Slow Cooker Green Chile Chicken and Rice Casserole. Perfect for busy days when you crave a hearty, comforting meal without the fuss, this recipe combines tender chicken, zesty green chiles, and creamy cheese for a dish that will leave your taste buds singing. Let your slow cooker do the work as you go about your day, and come home to a delicious dinner that the whole family will love.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 white onion, diced
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
- 1 (19 oz) can green enchilada sauce
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, grated and divided
- 1/4 cup green onion, chopped
- 3 cups cooked white rice
Instructions:
- Season chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Place seasoned chicken in the slow cooker.
- Add diced white onion, diced green chiles, and green enchilada sauce to the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
- Stir in sour cream and 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese until well combined.
- Add cooked white rice to the slow cooker and stir until evenly distributed.
- Sprinkle remaining 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese on top of the mixture in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for an additional 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For added heat, use hot green enchilada sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mixture.
- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding additional vegetables such as diced bell peppers or black beans.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a healthier twist without sacrificing creaminess.
- You can use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a nuttier flavor and added nutritional benefits.
Keto Version:
- Replace the white rice with cauliflower rice to reduce the carb content.
- Use full-fat Greek yogurt instead of sour cream to keep the dish keto-friendly.
- Opt for a low-carb green enchilada sauce or make your own using fresh ingredients.
Low-Carb Version:
- Omit the rice altogether and increase the amount of chicken for a protein-packed meal.
- Swap out sour cream for a low-carb alternative like cream cheese or a combination of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt.
- Choose a green enchilada sauce with no added sugars or make your own from scratch to control the carb content.
In conclusion, this Slow Cooker Green Chile Chicken and Rice Casserole is a convenient and flavorful dish that brings together the best of Tex-Mex cuisine. With its tender chicken, zesty green chiles, and creamy cheese, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle, looking for low-carb options, or simply craving a delicious and satisfying meal, this recipe has you covered. So dust off your slow cooker and get ready to enjoy a taste of the Southwest from the comfort of your own home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
- Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs. Just be sure to increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours.
- Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
- Absolutely! You can assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before, store it in the refrigerator overnight, and then start cooking it in the morning.
- Can I freeze leftovers?
- Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- What can I serve with this dish?
- This casserole is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or warm tortillas for a complete meal.
- Can I use different types of cheese?
- Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Mexican blend cheese for a unique flavor twist.
