Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
Total Time: 4-6 hours
Servings: 6
This Slow Cooker Green Chili Chicken and Rice Casserole is a delightful blend of tender chicken, creamy green chili sauce, and cheesy rice. It’s a perfect meal for busy days, offering comfort and flavor with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work, making it ideal for a hassle-free dinner.
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
Preparation
1. Prepare the Chicken: Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts or thighs. Combine the salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl. Rub this mixture evenly over the chicken pieces. This seasoning will infuse the chicken with robust flavors as it cooks.
2. Sauté the Onion (Optional): For a deeper flavor profile, consider sautéing the diced onion. Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. This step adds a caramelized sweetness and complexity to the final dish but is optional if you’re short on time.
3. Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker. If you opted to sauté the onion, sprinkle it over the chicken. Next, pour the diced green chiles and green enchilada sauce over the chicken. The enchilada sauce forms the base of the casserole’s creamy sauce, while the green chiles add a mild heat and tanginess.
4. Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and can be easily shredded with a fork. The long, slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
5. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is fully cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the slow cooker. This step allows the chicken to absorb all the flavors from the sauce and seasoning. Stir the shredded chicken into the sauce to combine it well.
6. Add Sour Cream and Cheese: Stir in the sour cream and 1 1/2 cups of the grated cheddar cheese. The sour cream adds a tangy creaminess, while the cheese melts into the sauce, making it rich and indulgent. Mix until the cheese starts to melt and incorporate into the sauce.
7. Incorporate the Rice: Add the cooked white rice to the slow cooker. Gently stir to combine the rice with the chicken and sauce mixture. Ensure that the rice is evenly coated and distributed throughout the casserole.
8. Final Cheese and Garnish: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional 15-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve Hot: Enjoy this casserole hot from the slow cooker. It makes a hearty and satisfying meal on its own but pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner.
- Toppings: Enhance the flavor with additional toppings such as sliced jalapeños for heat, cilantro for freshness, or extra sour cream for added creaminess.
- Side Dishes: Complement the casserole with tortilla chips, salsa, or refried beans for a complete Tex-Mex meal. A side of guacamole or a simple green salad can also be a great addition.
Cooking Tips
- Chicken Thighs vs. Breasts: Chicken thighs are more forgiving and remain tender longer in the slow cooker. However, chicken breasts work well too if you prefer leaner meat. Both options will provide great results.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: Modify the chili powder and green chiles to suit your heat preference. For a spicier dish, increase the chili powder or add a diced jalapeño. For a milder version, reduce the spice or use less green chiles.
- Rice: Use pre-cooked rice to save time. You can use any type of white rice, including long-grain or jasmine. For a healthier twist, substitute brown rice or a mix of grains.
This Slow Cooker Green Chili Chicken and Rice Casserole is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and the convenience of the slow cooker, it delivers a comforting and satisfying meal. The creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy casserole is sure to become a family favorite, offering both convenience and deliciousness in every bite.
