If you’re in the mood for a comforting and satisfying Tex-Mex dish that practically cooks itself, then look no further than this Slow Cooker Green Chile Chicken Casserole recipe. Packed with tender chicken, zesty green chiles, and gooey cheese, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s made entirely in the slow cooker, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
- Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs in this recipe. Simply increase the cooking time in the slow cooker by 1-2 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
2. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
- Absolutely! Brown rice is a nutritious alternative to white rice and will work just as well in this recipe. Keep in mind that brown rice typically requires a longer cooking time, so adjust accordingly.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the ingredients for this casserole ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. Simply assemble everything in the slow cooker according to the recipe instructions when you’re ready to cook.
4. Is this recipe keto-friendly or low-carb?
- While this particular recipe is not keto-friendly or low-carb due to the inclusion of rice and enchilada sauce, you can easily modify it by omitting the rice and using a low-carb enchilada sauce or homemade sauce. You can also serve the chicken mixture over cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
- Yes, you can freeze any leftover casserole for future meals. Simply transfer the cooled casserole to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the microwave or oven until heated through.
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:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder. Place them in the slow cooker.
2. Add the Ingredients:
- Layer the diced white onion and diced green chiles on top of the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker. Pour the green enchilada sauce over the top.
3. Cook the Casserole:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
4. Shred the Chicken:
- Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the slow cooker. Stir in the sour cream and 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese until well combined.
5. Add the Rice and Cheese:
- Stir in the cooked white rice until evenly distributed. Sprinkle the remaining cup of grated cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
- Garnish the casserole with chopped green onions before serving. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors of this slow cooker green chile chicken casserole!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For an extra kick of heat, add a diced jalapeno or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture.
- Feel free to customize this casserole with your favorite toppings, such as sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add a can of cream of chicken soup or cream of mushroom soup to the chicken mixture before cooking.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- To make this recipe keto-friendly or low-carb, simply omit the rice and use a low-carb enchilada sauce. You can also replace the white onion with green onions for a lower-carb option.
With its irresistible combination of tender chicken, zesty green chiles, and gooey cheese, this Slow Cooker Green Chile Chicken Casserole is sure to become a new favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving a comforting meal, this easy and flavorful dish is always a winner. So fire up your slow cooker and get ready to enjoy a taste of Tex-Mex heaven!
