Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling

Name: Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce; 1 cup diced onions; 1 cup diced bell peppers; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy a classic Mexican dish, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Created by

Talia Preston

Last updated on 2025-12-28T17:19:11.388Z

This crockpot chicken enchilada filling is a family favorite that combines tender chicken, zesty enchilada sauce, and a blend of spices for a flavorful meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Simple preparation with minimal cleanup
Rich and flavorful filling that everyone loves
Versatile enough for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas

      

A Family-Friendly Meal

This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling is not just a meal; it's a way to bring everyone together. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it's perfect for busy families who want to enjoy a hearty dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. The crockpot does all the work, allowing you to focus on what matters most: quality time with your loved ones.

One of the best features of this recipe is its adaptability. You can customize the filling to suit your family's tastes, whether that means adding more spices for a kick or including extra vegetables for added nutrition. Feel free to switch up the toppings or sides to make it your own!

Effortless Meal Prep

Meal prepping has never been easier with this crockpot enchilada filling. You can prepare a large batch ahead of time, making it a fantastic choice for busy weekdays. Simply store the filling in airtight containers in the refrigerator or freezer, and you've got quick, tasty meals ready to go whenever hunger strikes.

This recipe is not only convenient but also a budget-friendly option. With minimal ingredients and the ability to stretch meals across several days, it’s perfect for families looking to save money while still enjoying delicious, home-cooked food.

Serving Suggestions

Once your chicken enchilada filling is ready, the possibilities for serving are endless! You can fill soft tortillas for classic enchiladas, use hard-shell tacos for a crunchy twist, or even layer the filling over rice for a satisfying burrito bowl. Don’t forget to add your favorite toppings like sour cream, avocado, or salsa to elevate the dish.

For a vegetarian option, consider replacing the chicken with beans or lentils, maintaining the same delicious flavors and textures. This versatility makes it a go-to recipe for every occasion, whether it's a family gathering or a casual weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious filling:

Ingredients

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
1 cup diced onions
1 cup diced bell peppers
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Once you have all the ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your crockpot chicken enchilada filling:

Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.

Add Vegetables and Spices

Add diced onions, bell peppers, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper on top of the chicken.

Pour the Enchilada Sauce

Pour the enchilada sauce evenly over the chicken and vegetables.

Cook on Low

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Shred and Serve

Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix everything together. Serve with tortillas, rice, or as desired.

Enjoy your delicious and easy chicken enchilada filling!

Tips for Perfect Enchiladas

To ensure your chicken remains juicy and flavorful, avoid overcooking it in the crockpot. Six hours on low is usually perfect, but keep an eye on the chicken to prevent dryness. For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the enchilada sauce for a few hours before cooking.

If you prefer a spicier filling, feel free to add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. Adjust the spices according to your family's taste preferences, and don't hesitate to experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be a blessing, especially when they’re as delicious as this chicken enchilada filling! Store any uneaten filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags or containers, which can last for up to three months.

To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. You can also use the filling as a topping for nachos or baked potatoes for a quick, satisfying meal on the go.

Nutritional Benefits

This crockpot chicken enchilada filling is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair, while the bell peppers and onions provide vitamins A and C, which support a healthy immune system.

By incorporating fresh cilantro as a garnish, you add an extra layer of flavor along with antioxidants. This dish can easily fit into a balanced diet, making it a smart choice for families looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by an hour.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge.

→ What can I serve this filling with?

This filling is great in enchiladas, tacos, burritos, or over rice.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free enchilada sauce, this recipe is gluten-free.