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: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained; 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional, for serving); Chopped cilantro (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling is a delicious and easy way to enjoy the flavors of Mexico right at home. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

Created by

Charity Bowen

Last updated on 2025-12-30T00:31:19.701Z

This Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling is not just a recipe; it's a cherished tradition in our family. We often prepare it for gatherings, and it never fails to impress. The slow-cooked chicken absorbs all the spices and flavors, making it irresistible!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup
Flavorful and tender chicken that everyone will enjoy
Versatile filling that can be used in tacos, burritos, or enchiladas

      

Easy Weeknight Dinner Solution

Finding time to cook during busy weeknights can be a challenge, but this Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling makes it easy. Simply toss your ingredients into the crockpot in the morning and let it do the work for you. By the time dinner rolls around, you’ll have a flavorful meal that requires minimal effort. This recipe is perfect for families on the go or anyone who wants to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Additionally, the magical aromas wafting through your home as the chicken cooks will have everyone eagerly anticipating dinner. The beauty of a crockpot is that it allows for a set-it-and-forget-it approach, freeing up your time for other activities while still delivering a satisfying homemade meal.

Versatile Meal Options

One of the standout features of this chicken enchilada filling is its versatility. While it shines as a filling for enchiladas, it can easily be adapted for tacos, burritos, or even served over rice for a complete meal. This adaptability allows you to customize your dinner based on your family’s preferences and dietary needs. You can also switch up the toppings, offering choices like guacamole, sour cream, or jalapeños to give everyone the chance to personalize their plate.

This recipe is also a fantastic way to sneak in some healthy ingredients. With black beans and corn, you're adding fiber and nutrients to the meal. Plus, you can always include additional vegetables or substitute chicken for other proteins, making it a great way to utilize whatever you have on hand.

Meal Prep and Storage

This crockpot chicken enchilada filling is not only great for dinner but also makes for excellent meal prep. You can easily double the recipe and portion it out for lunches throughout the week. Store the filling in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days or freeze it for longer storage. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stove, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go in no time.

When freezing, consider using freezer-safe bags or containers to minimize space and ensure freshness. You can also label your containers with the date and contents to keep track of what you have on hand. This way, you’ll always be prepared for those busy nights when cooking from scratch just isn’t an option.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional, for serving)
Chopped cilantro (for garnish)

Mix all the ingredients well for a flavorful filling.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Season with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Top the chicken with black beans, corn, and enchilada sauce. Stir to combine all the ingredients.

Cook

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

Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and mix it back into the filling.

Serve

Serve warm with shredded cheese and chopped cilantro on top.

Enjoy this delicious filling in your favorite tortilla or as a standalone dish!

Tips for Perfecting Your Filling

To make sure your chicken is tender and flavorful, consider marinating it for a few hours before cooking. Use the spices listed in the recipe along with a splash of lime juice for an extra zesty kick. This step enhances the flavor profile and ensures that your chicken absorbs all the delicious seasonings while it cooks.

If you're looking to add a bit more heat, don't hesitate to include diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. Adjusting the spice level is simple and can create a dish that satisfies everyone’s taste buds.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving this chicken enchilada filling, the options are endless. For a classic presentation, roll the filling in corn tortillas, top with additional enchilada sauce, and sprinkle with cheese before baking until bubbly. Alternatively, serve it as a taco bar, allowing everyone to assemble their own tacos with a variety of toppings like diced avocados, shredded lettuce, and fresh salsa.

For a lighter option, consider serving the filling over a bed of mixed greens or using it as a filling for lettuce wraps. This way, you can enjoy the same great flavors while keeping it healthier and lower in carbs.

All About Leftovers

Leftover chicken enchilada filling is a blessing in disguise. Not only can it be reheated for a quick dinner, but it can also be incorporated into other recipes. Think quesadillas, stuffed peppers, or even a savory breakfast burrito. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire.

When storing leftovers, ensure they cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. This will help maintain the quality and flavor of your meal. Remember, you can always jazz up reheated portions with fresh garnishes to give them a new life!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts, but increase the cooking time to about 8 hours on low.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.

→ What can I serve this filling with?

This filling is perfect for enchiladas, burritos, tacos, or even as a topping for nachos.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

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