Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas for the Ultimate Comfort

There’s nothing more comforting than a plate of warm, cheesy crock pot chicken enchiladas—a dish that’s effortless to prepare yet packed with bold, savory flavors. Whether you’re craving a hearty Mexican-inspired meal for a busy weeknight or looking for a crowd-pleasing recipe to serve at your next gathering, this slow-cooked classic is sure to impress.

With tender, shredded chicken simmered in a rich enchilada sauce, layered with soft tortillas and gooey melted cheese, this dish delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort. The best part? Your crock pot does all the work, making it a perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal. Plus, you can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients—add some black beans for extra protein, spice it up with jalapeños, or keep it mild for a family-friendly dinner.

If you love easy chicken enchiladas but want to skip the hassle of rolling each one individually, this recipe is your new go-to. Ready to bring authentic, delicious flavors to your kitchen with almost no prep time? Let’s get started!

Key Benefits of Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas

Effortless and Time-Saving
One of the biggest advantages of making crock pot chicken enchiladas is how hands-off the process is. With just a few minutes of prep, your slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to focus on other tasks while your enchiladas develop deep, delicious flavors.

Incredibly Flavorful and Tender
Cooking the chicken low and slow in enchilada sauce infuses it with bold, authentic flavors, resulting in juicy, fork-tender meat that shreds effortlessly. The sauce also thickens beautifully, creating a rich, mouthwatering filling for your enchiladas.

Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
This recipe makes a generous batch, so it’s ideal for meal prep. Store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for a quick and satisfying meal anytime. Plus, the flavors intensify as they sit, making your next-day enchiladas even better.

Customizable to Suit Any Taste
Whether you love extra spice, prefer a creamy filling, or want to add veggies for extra nutrients, this recipe is endlessly versatile. Swap in black beans, corn, green chilies, or even different cheeses to make it your own.

A Crowd-Pleasing Favorite
These slow-cooked enchiladas are a guaranteed hit with family and guests alike. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a game-day gathering, this dish delivers comforting, cheesy goodness that everyone will love.

Now that you know why this recipe is a must-try, let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need!

Ingredients for Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas

To create flavor-packed, slow-cooked chicken enchiladas, you’ll need a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role in ensuring every bite is tender, cheesy, and bursting with bold Mexican flavors.

For the Chicken Filling:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Cooked low and slow for ultra-tender, shredded chicken.
• 2 cups red enchilada sauce – Adds a deep, tangy, and mildly spicy flavor to the dish. Use store-bought or homemade.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder – Enhances the smoky, spicy depth of the filling.
• 1 teaspoon cumin – A warm, earthy spice that complements the sauce beautifully.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Boosts the savory, aromatic flavors of the chicken.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder – Adds a subtle, natural sweetness.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste – Essential for balancing and enhancing flavors.

For the Enchiladas:

• 8 small flour tortillas (or corn tortillas) – Soft and pliable, perfect for rolling around the filling.
• 1 ½ cups shredded Mexican blend cheese – A delicious mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and queso quesadilla for a melty, gooey topping.
• ½ cup sour cream (optional) – Adds a creamy, tangy element to balance the spice.
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro – For a fresh, herbaceous garnish.

Optional Add-Ins & Toppings:

• 1 cup black beans – Adds protein and fiber for a heartier meal.
• ½ cup corn kernels – A touch of natural sweetness and texture.
• 1 diced jalapeño – For those who love extra heat.
• Sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, and extra sour cream – Classic toppings for added richness and freshness.

With all your ingredients ready, let’s move on to assembling and cooking these easy, slow-cooked enchiladas!

How to Make Crockpot Chicken Enchiladas

Making crockpot chicken enchiladas is incredibly easy, and it’s a perfect recipe for those busy days when you need something flavorful with minimal effort. Here’s a step-by-step guide to walk you through the process. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to prepare a meal that’s both comforting and delicious!

Prepare the Chicken:

Start by adding your chicken breasts to the crockpot. You can use fresh or frozen chicken; just ensure it’s fully covered by the other ingredients.

Add taco seasoning to the chicken. If you want to take it up a notch, feel free to mix in some chili powder or garlic powder for extra depth of flavor.

Pour in a bit of salsa or enchilada sauce (about a cup) to keep the chicken moist and juicy while it cooks.

Set your crockpot to low for 6–7 hours or high for about 3–4 hours. You want the chicken to be tender and easy to shred with a fork, which will give your enchiladas the right texture.

Shred the Chicken:

Once the chicken is fully cooked, shred it directly in the crockpot using two forks. It should pull apart easily.

Mix the shredded chicken with the sauce left in the crockpot to soak up all the wonderful flavors. If you like your enchiladas extra saucy, feel free to add more enchilada sauce at this stage.

Assemble the Enchiladas:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for the final baking step.

Lay out a baking dish and begin by placing a spoonful of the shredded chicken mixture into each tortilla. Roll them up and place them seam-side down in the dish.

Once the tortillas are all rolled up, pour additional enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with a generous amount of shredded cheese.

For a beautiful golden finish, cover the dish with foil and bake for 20–25 minutes. Remove the foil in the last 5 minutes to allow the cheese to get bubbly and slightly browned.

Serve and Enjoy:

Once your crockpot chicken enchiladas are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. Then, garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or sliced avocados if you like.

These enchiladas are perfect for serving with a side of rice, beans, or a fresh green salad.

Pro Tips:

• For a healthier twist: Use whole wheat tortillas or corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
• Adding more veggies: Throw in some diced bell peppers, onions, or even corn when preparing the chicken in the crockpot for added flavor and texture.
• Make ahead: You can assemble the enchiladas and store them in the fridge overnight before baking, which makes dinner prep even easier.

Pro Tips and Variations for Crockpot Chicken Enchiladas

Making crockpot chicken enchiladas is an easy and satisfying experience, but there are always ways to customize the recipe to make it your own. Whether you’re looking for different flavor profiles or ways to adjust the ingredients, here are some pro tips and variations to elevate your dish!

1. Try Different Proteins

• While chicken is the star of this recipe, you can easily switch it up! Try using ground turkey, beef, or even shredded pork for a different twist.
• For a vegetarian option, black beans or seasoned tofu work wonderfully as a meat replacement, adding both texture and protein.

2. Add Extra Vegetables

• Make your enchiladas even more nutritious by incorporating extra vegetables. Try adding diced bell peppers, zucchini, or corn to the crockpot. The slow-cooking method helps soften these veggies and infuses them with flavor, giving your dish extra color and texture.
• For a hearty veggie-packed meal, you could also add spinach, mushrooms, or sweet potatoes for added fiber and nutrients.

3. Experiment with Sauces and Spices

• Spicy lovers will enjoy adding a bit of heat to their enchiladas. Try incorporating jalapeños, chili flakes, or even a few dashes of hot sauce to the chicken mixture for extra spice.
• Tomatillo salsa can be used instead of regular salsa to give a more tangy and fresh flavor to your enchiladas. You can also swap out traditional red enchilada sauce for green enchilada sauce for a different taste.

4. Make It Gluten-Free

• If you’re following a gluten-free diet, swap out the tortillas for corn tortillas or gluten-free flour tortillas. Both options will hold up well in this recipe and will still offer that soft, comforting texture.
• Double-check that the seasoning mix and sauce are also gluten-free if you’re particularly sensitive.

5. Boost the Flavor with Cheese

• For the ultimate cheese pull, use a mix of cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a little heat. A cream cheese layer on top before baking adds a rich, creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the enchilada sauce.
• If you prefer a lighter version, reduced-fat cheese works just as well for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.

6. Make It a Meal Prep Dream

• These crockpot chicken enchiladas are a great option for meal prep. Assemble them ahead of time, store in the fridge, and then bake when you’re ready to eat.
• You can also freeze the assembled enchiladas. When ready to eat, just thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual for a quick and easy dinner.

7. Garnish for Extra Freshness

• After baking, garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, sliced avocados, or a squeeze of lime for extra zest. You can also add a sprinkle of crumbled tortilla chips on top for a bit of crunch.

Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Chicken Enchiladas

Once your crockpot chicken enchiladas are ready to come out of the slow cooker, it’s time to think about how to serve them! This dish is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides and garnishes to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your dish and make it even more satisfying.

1. Pair with Fresh Sides

• Mexican Rice: A classic pairing, Mexican rice is the perfect side to serve alongside your enchiladas. Its light, fluffy texture complements the rich and cheesy enchiladas beautifully. Add a squeeze of lime or cilantro for extra freshness.
• Refried Beans: For a hearty addition, serve your enchiladas with a side of refried beans. You can also swap these out for black beans or pinto beans for more variety and flavor.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob seasoned with chili powder and lime is a refreshing and flavorful side that balances the richness of the enchiladas.

2. Add a Crisp Salad

• Crispy Mexican Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with romaine lettuce, tomatoes, avocados, and a tangy lime vinaigrette will add a light contrast to the warm and comforting enchiladas.
• Coleslaw: A simple, creamy coleslaw can help cut through the richness of the enchiladas and add a refreshing crunch.

3. Top with Zesty Garnishes

• Sour Cream and Guacamole: A dollop of sour cream and a scoop of guacamole are perfect for balancing the heat and adding richness to your meal. The creamy textures complement the spiciness of the enchiladas.
• Fresh Cilantro and Lime: Sprinkle some fresh cilantro over your enchiladas and serve with lime wedges on the side. The bright, citrusy flavors will bring everything together and add a touch of freshness.
• Salsa or Pico de Gallo: For a burst of flavor, top your enchiladas with pico de gallo or your favorite salsa. The combination of tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and a touch of spice adds a vibrant and tangy element.

4. Make It a Burrito Bowl

• If you’re craving something different, transform your crockpot chicken enchiladas into a burrito bowl! Layer the enchiladas with rice, beans, fresh veggies, and your favorite toppings in a bowl. It’s a customizable and fun way to serve this dish.

5. Serve with Crispy Tortilla Chips

• Serve a side of crispy tortilla chips with a bowl of salsa or cheese dip for some crunch and extra flavor. These will be a hit with both adults and kids!

6. Make It a Party Platter

• These enchiladas are perfect for family gatherings or game day. Arrange the enchiladas on a large platter and serve them buffet-style with various toppings and sides so everyone can build their own perfect plate.

These serving suggestions allow you to customize your crockpot chicken enchiladas for different occasions, whether you’re looking for a lighter meal or a full, indulgent spread. Don’t hesitate to try out different combinations to find what you and your family love most!

Conclusion 

There you have it—your delicious crockpot chicken enchiladas are ready to enjoy! This comforting, easy-to-make dish is the perfect meal for busy days, family dinners, or even special occasions. Whether you love the rich flavors of the chicken, the creamy cheese, or the tangy sauce, there’s no doubt this recipe will become a go-to in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Simple Ingredients: You’ll only need a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients to make this meal a success.
• Hands-Off Cooking: Thanks to the slow cooker, you can set it and forget it—leaving you free to focus on other things.
• Flavorful & Versatile: The recipe can be customized to your taste with different toppings, sides, and seasonings. You’ll never run out of new combinations to try!

Tips for the Best Results:

• For extra flavor: Don’t skip browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker. This adds a depth of flavor that takes your enchiladas to the next level.
• For creamier enchiladas: Add a little more cheese or a dollop of sour cream before serving to make it even richer.
• Customize the spice level: Adjust the heat by adding more or less chili powder, or include some jalapeños for extra kick!

Make Ahead and Storage Tips:

• Make ahead: You can prepare the chicken mixture the night before, store it in the fridge, and just set it in the crockpot the next day to cook. This is perfect for meal prep!
• Leftovers: If you happen to have leftovers, they keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months—just reheat when ready to enjoy!

Crockpot chicken enchiladas offer endless possibilities, from customizing the toppings to adjusting the heat level. It’s a simple, satisfying dish that will fill your home with comforting aromas and leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy making and sharing this easy family favorite!

crock pot chicken enchiladas

casserolerecipes.net

Make delicious crock pot chicken enchiladas with tender chicken, bold flavors, and easy prep. A perfect slow cooker meal for any night!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 3 hours hrs

Total Time 3 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Chicken Filling:

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts – Cooked low and slow for ultra-tender, shredded chicken.
• 2 cups red enchilada sauce – Adds a deep tangy, and mildly spicy flavor to the dish. Use store-bought or homemade.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder – Enhances the smoky spicy depth of the filling.
• 1 teaspoon cumin – A warm earthy spice that complements the sauce beautifully.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Boosts the savory aromatic flavors of the chicken.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder – Adds a subtle natural sweetness.
• Salt and black pepper to taste – Essential for balancing and enhancing flavors.

For the Enchiladas:

• 8 small flour tortillas or corn tortillas – Soft and pliable, perfect for rolling around the filling.
• 1 ½ cups shredded Mexican blend cheese – A delicious mix of cheddar Monterey Jack, and queso quesadilla for a melty, gooey topping.
• ½ cup sour cream optional – Adds a creamy, tangy element to balance the spice.
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro – For a fresh herbaceous garnish.

Optional Add-Ins & Toppings:

• 1 cup black beans – Adds protein and fiber for a heartier meal.
• ½ cup corn kernels – A touch of natural sweetness and texture.
• 1 diced jalapeño – For those who love extra heat.
• Sliced avocado diced tomatoes, and extra sour cream – Classic toppings for added richness and freshness.
• With all your ingredients ready let’s move on to assembling and cooking these easy, slow-cooked enchiladas!

Instructions

 

Prepare the Chicken:

• Start by adding your chicken breasts to the crockpot. You can use fresh or frozen chicken; just ensure it’s fully covered by the other ingredients.
• Add taco seasoning to the chicken. If you want to take it up a notch, feel free to mix in some chili powder or garlic powder for extra depth of flavor.
• Pour in a bit of salsa or enchilada sauce (about a cup) to keep the chicken moist and juicy while it cooks.
• Set your crockpot to low for 6–7 hours or high for about 3–4 hours. You want the chicken to be tender and easy to shred with a fork, which will give your enchiladas the right texture.

Shred the Chicken:

• Once the chicken is fully cooked, shred it directly in the crockpot using two forks. It should pull apart easily.
• Mix the shredded chicken with the sauce left in the crockpot to soak up all the wonderful flavors. If you like your enchiladas extra saucy, feel free to add more enchilada sauce at this stage.

Assemble the Enchiladas:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for the final baking step.
• Lay out a baking dish and begin by placing a spoonful of the shredded chicken mixture into each tortilla. Roll them up and place them seam-side down in the dish.
• Once the tortillas are all rolled up, pour additional enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with a generous amount of shredded cheese.
• For a beautiful golden finish, cover the dish with foil and bake for 20–25 minutes. Remove the foil in the last 5 minutes to allow the cheese to get bubbly and slightly browned.

Serve and Enjoy:

• Once your crockpot chicken enchiladas are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. Then, garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or sliced avocados if you like.
• These enchiladas are perfect for serving with a side of rice, beans, or a fresh green salad.

Pro Tips:

• For a healthier twist: Use whole wheat tortillas or corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
• Adding more veggies: Throw in some diced bell peppers, onions, or even corn when preparing the chicken in the crockpot for added flavor and texture.
• Make ahead: You can assemble the enchiladas and store them in the fridge overnight before baking, which makes dinner prep even easier.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 350
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 65mg
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg

Keyword Crock Pot Chicken Enchiladas, Easy Chicken Enchiladas, Slow Cooker Enchiladas

FAQs

These enchiladas are a meal on their own, but you can serve them with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple side salad with a zesty lime dressing. For an extra treat, top them with sour cream, guacamole, or your favorite salsa.