April 10, 2024

Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Casserole with Green Chile

Name: Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Casserole with Green Chile
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 120 min
Total time: 140 min
Ingredients: 3 lbs Chicken Breasts ((about 3 breasts)); 3 Tbsp Taco Seasoning; 1 8 oz Cream Cheese ((brick)(room temperature)); 1 10 oz Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilis (Rotel – 10 oz can (undrained)); 30 ounces Green Enchilada Sauce ((3) 10oz Cans (mild or medium)); 8 ounces Monterey Jack Cheese ((brick)(shredded)); 8 ounces Cheddar Cheese ((bagged)(shredded)); 16 Corn Tortillas ((taco size) (cut in half))

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Welcome to our kitchen, where today we’re diving into the world of comforting Tex-Mex cuisine with a twist! Say hello to our Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Casserole with Green Chile, a mouthwatering dish that brings together layers of tender chicken, savory enchilada sauce, gooey cheese, and zesty green chiles. This crowd-pleasing casserole is not only easy to make but also bursts with bold flavors and textures. It will have your taste buds dancing with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering with friends and family. This recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire. So, grab your slow cooker and let’s get cooking!

SIMPLE INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

Season the Chicken Breasts:

Chicken Breasts (3 lbs, about 3 breasts): Select boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe.
Taco Seasoning (3 Tbsp): Taco seasoning adds a blend of savory, spicy flavors to the chicken.
Cream Cheese (1 8 oz brick, room temperature): Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilis (Rotel, 1 10 oz can, undrained): Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilis add a zesty kick and depth of flavor to the chicken.

Ingredients to Assemble the Casserole:

Green Enchilada Sauce (3 10 oz cans, mild or medium): Choose mild or medium enchilada sauce based on your preference for heat level.
Monterey Jack Cheese (8 ounces, shredded): You can shred the cheese yourself or use pre-shredded cheese for convenience.
Cheddar Cheese (Taco Blend) (8 ounces, shredded): Use sharp, medium cheddar cheese or taco blend for a more pronounced flavor.
Corn Tortillas (16 taco size, cut in half): Cut the tortillas in half to fit them evenly in the slow cooker layers.

WHY IS CHICKEN ENCHILADA CASSEROLE A guaranteed FAMILY FAVORITE?

Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Casserole is a family favorite for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly convenient to prepare. With a few simple steps and minimal hands-on time, you can assemble all the ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work for you, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. This recipe is flexible and allows for customization based on your personal preferences. Whether you prefer mild or spicy, cheesy or creamy, you can adjust the ingredients and toppings to suit your family’s taste buds. Furthermore, the flavors in this casserole are undeniably delicious making it a meal the whole family will love.

HOW TO PREPARE ENCHILADA CASSEROLE?

Time needed: 2 hours and 20 minutes

Precook the Chicken:

There are a few options for precooking the tender chicken:

Pressure Cooker: Cook the chicken breasts in a pressure cooker for about 10 minutes on high pressure, or an internal temperature of 165 degrees f. This can be verified with an instant-read thermometer. Once cooked and tender, shred the chicken using two forks.

Boiling: Alternatively, you can boil the chicken breasts in a large pot of water until they are fully cooked, about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks.

Rotisserie Chicken: If you prefer, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken from the store. Simply shred the meat from the chicken and set it aside for assembling the casserole.
Season the Chicken Breasts:

In a medium bowl season the cooked chicken breasts with taco seasoning. You can either use store-bought taco seasoning or make your own. Taco seasoning is typically made with spices like chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika.

Next, spread the softened cream cheese over the seasoned chicken breasts, add the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, and combine ensuring they are evenly coated.
Assemble the Casserole:

Begin assembling the casserole by spreading a layer of green enchilada sauce on the bottom of the slow cooker.
Assemble the Casserole:

Next, arrange layers of tortillas over the sauce, covering it as evenly as possible.
Assemble the Casserole:

Follow with a layer of shredded chicken evenly distributed over the tortillas.
Assemble the Casserole:

Then sprinkle a mixture of shredded Monterey Jack and taco blend cheese on top. Repeat the layers two more times, ending with a final layer of cheese on top.
Slow Cook the Casserole:

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook the casserole on HIGH with cooking time 2 hours, or until the cheesy goodness is melted, bubbly, and heated through.
Garnish and Server:

Once done, garnish with your favorite toppings such as chopped cilantro, diced avocado, diced tomatoes, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños.

Enjoy the delicious Mexican Food flavors!

FAQ – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Do I need to cook the chicken before putting it in the slow cooker?

It’s recommended to precook the chicken before putting it in the slow cooker for enchiladas. This ensures the chicken is cooked through and tender before assembling the enchiladas.

Can I use leftover cooked chicken instead of raw chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use leftover cooked chicken instead of raw chicken breasts in chicken enchilada casserole. Shred the cooked chicken and follow the recipe instructions for assembly. This is a great way to use up leftover chicken from previous meals.

How can I make chicken enchilada casserole spicier?

To make chicken enchilada casserole spicier, you can add extra diced green chilies, jalapeños, or hot sauce to the filling mixture. You can also use a spicier enchilada sauce or add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix.

Can I assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and refrigerate them before cooking?

Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and refrigerate them before cooking. This can be a time-saving option for busy weeknights or when preparing for a gathering. Simply cover the assembled enchiladas with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate until ready to cook.

ENCHILADA RECIPE SUBSTITUTION AND VARIATIONS:

Protein Options:
- Instead of chicken breasts, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken, ground turkey, ground beef, or beans for a vegetarian version.
Tortilla Variations:
- Swap corn tortillas for flour tortillas for a softer texture.
- Use whole wheat or low-carb tortillas for a healthier option.
Cheese Choices:
- Experiment with different types of cheese such as Pepper Jack, Colby Jack, or Mexican blend cheese for added flavor.
- For a lighter option, use reduced-fat or dairy-free cheese.
Sauce Substitutions:
- Substitute green sauce with red sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Make a homemade enchilada sauce using canned tomatoes, green chilies, onions, and spices for a fresher taste.
Additions and Toppings:
- Enhance the filling with extra ingredients such as a can of black beans, corn, diced bell peppers, or sautéed onions.
- Top the casserole with pickled sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor and texture.
- Sprinkle crushed tortilla strips or diced green onions over the top for added crunch.
Spice Level:
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less diced green chilies, jalapeños, or hot sauce according to your preference.
- For a milder version, use mild green chilies and omit additional spices like cayenne pepper or chili powder.
Gluten-Free Option:
- Ensure all ingredients used, including tortillas and enchilada sauce, are certified gluten-free to make for those with gluten sensitivities or allergies.

WHAT DO YOU SERVE WITH GREEN CHILI CHICKEN ENCHILADA?

When serving Slow Cooker Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas, people often accompany this flavorful main dish with a variety of delicious side dishes that complement its rich and savory flavors. Some common options include Spanish rice, which provides a hearty and flavorful base with its seasoned tomato-infused rice. Additionally, creamy refried beans add a comforting element and pair perfectly with the cheesy and spicy flavors of the enchiladas. Fresh guacamole or a side of Mexican street corn (elote) brings a refreshing and vibrant touch to the meal, offering a balance of creaminess and tanginess. Whether it’s crispy tortilla chips with salsa or a crisp green salad with a hint of lime, these side dishes enhance the overall dining experience, making it a satisfying and well-rounded meal.

HOW TO STORE AND REHEAT LEFTOVER GREEN CHILI CHICKEN ENCHILADAS?

To store leftover chicken enchiladas, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container or wrapping them tightly in aluminum foil. Refrigerate the enchiladas promptly, and they can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the enchiladas in an oven-safe dish. Cover the dish with foil to prevent the enchiladas from drying out, then heat them in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes, or until heated to your desired temperature. Once reheated, serve the enchiladas with your favorite toppings and enjoy!

CAN LEFTOVER GREEN CHILI CHICKEN CASSEROLE BE FROZEN FOR LATER CONSUMPTION?

Yes, leftover Green Chili Chicken Casserole can be frozen for later consumption. To freeze the casserole, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or wrapping it tightly in aluminum foil. It’s a good idea to portion the casserole into individual servings before freezing for easier thawing and reheating later. Frozen Green Chili Chicken Casserole can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

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LOOKING FOR MORE SLOW COOKER RECIPES? TRY THESE!

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5 from 1 vote