
Introduction to Crock Pot Green Enchilada Chicken
As a busy mom, I know how chaotic life can get. Between work and family activities, it’s easy to lose track of time. That’s why I’m excited to share my Crock Pot Green Enchilada Chicken recipe! This dish is a sheer delight, combining the creamy richness of cheese and chicken with the zesty punch of green enchilada sauce.
It’s the perfect solution for those long days when you need a comforting meal waiting for you at home. I promise, each bite will make your taste buds dance and your loved ones will ask for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Green Enchilada Chicken
This Crock Pot Green Enchilada Chicken is a lifesaver, transforming your busy afternoons into easy evenings. With minimal prep time, you simply toss ingredients in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. The rich flavors meld together beautifully, offering a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s versatile—serve it as a soup, a filling for tacos, or even over rice. Who wouldn’t adore that?
Ingredients for Crock Pot Green Enchilada Chicken
When it comes to crafting my lovely Crock Pot Green Enchilada Chicken, I like to keep things simple yet flavorful. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: The star of the show! Chicken starts off tender and takes on all the flavors from the sauce.
- Green enchilada sauce: This tangy sauce adds a burst of flavor, transforming your chicken into a delightful Mexican treat.
- Chicken broth: A great way to keep things moist and juicy, adding richness to the overall dish.
- Half and half or Greek yogurt: For creaminess, half and half offers indulgence, while Greek yogurt provides a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
- Monterey Jack cheese: This ooey-gooey cheese melts beautifully, adding richness and a comforting texture.
- Cream cheese: Cubes of cream cheese make the dish extra creamy, providing that luscious mouthfeel you crave.
- Green salsa (salsa verde): A hint of zest to amp up the flavors. It complements the other ingredients perfectly!
- Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings to adjust the flavor to your liking—sometimes, less is more!
Feel free to personalize this dish based on what you have at hand or your family’s taste preferences! Can’t find green enchilada sauce? Aim for a red enchilada sauce instead; it’ll add a different twist. For spices, a sprinkle of cumin or chili powder can ramp up the heat. Specific measurements can be found below for your convenience, so you can easily print them out!
How to Make Crock Pot Green Enchilada Chicken
Making my Crock Pot Green Enchilada Chicken is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a creamy, delicious dish ready in no time. Let’s get started!
Prepare the Chicken
First, gather your chicken. I like using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe, but thighs work great too. They hold moisture well and are often more forgiving if you accidentally overcook them. Just rinse the chicken under cold water, pat it dry, and place it in your slow cooker. Trust me, you want juicy chicken!
Combine with Sauce
Next, pour in the green enchilada sauce and chicken broth over the chicken. Use a spatula to gently stir and make sure the chicken is fully submerged in that savory goodness. This helps the chicken soak up all those amazing flavors during cooking. What a delightful combo!
Cook Until Tender
Cover your slow cooker and set it on low heat. Cooking for 6 to 8 hours allows the chicken to simmer to perfection. The low and slow method makes the meat tender and pulls the flavors together beautifully. Bonus tip: resist the urge to lift the lid! It lets out heat and slows the cooking process.
Shred the Chicken
Once that heavenly aroma fills your kitchen, it’s time for the fun part! Carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker using tongs or a slotted spoon. Place it on a cutting board and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. The chicken should fall apart easily—this means it’s cooked to perfection!
Add Creaminess to the Mix
Now, it’s time to unleash the creaminess! Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot and add the cubes of cream cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and either half and half or Greek yogurt. Don’t forget the green salsa! Stir everything well to combine. This will help create that dreamy, comforting texture. Cook for another 30 minutes on low, and stir occasionally. You’ll see it get wonderfully creamy.
Serve and Garnish
Finally, it’s serving time! Ladle the luscious green enchilada chicken into bowls. I love to top mine with fresh avocado, a sprinkle of cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream. Get creative! You can even add a squeeze of lime for an extra zing. Enjoy the smiles around the table as everyone digs in!
Tips for Success
- Keep the lid closed during cooking to maintain heat and moisture.
- Don’t skip the cream cheese; it adds essential creaminess!
- For a quicker prep, shred the chicken the night before.
- Adjust the spice level with extra green salsa or canned peppers.
- Garnish with your family’s favorite toppings for a personal touch.
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker: The star player for this dish; a 6-quart size works perfectly.
- Cutting board: Essential for shredding that delicious chicken.
- Meat forks: Handy for shredding the chicken, but regular forks can work in a pinch.
- Measuring cups: For those precise liquids, especially if you’re using half and half or broth.
- Spatula: Great for mixing and ensuring the ingredients are well combined.
Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with canned chickpeas or firm tofu for a delicious meatless version.
- Flavorful Add-Ins: Mix in black beans or corn for added texture and flavor.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a healthier option.
- Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheese like Pepper Jack or even Queso Fresco for a unique flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salads: A light, crisp salad with avocado and lime can balance the richness.
- Beverages: Pair with a refreshing lemonade or a light Mexican beer.
- Presentation: Serve in colorful bowls and add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a vibrant touch.
- Tortilla Chips: Crispy chips are perfect for scooping up the creamy goodness!
FAQs about Crock Pot Green Enchilada Chicken
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can toss frozen chicken directly into your slow cooker. Just increase the cooking time by an hour or so to ensure it’s fully cooked.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Crock Pot Green Enchilada Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare everything the night before. Just combine the chicken, sauces, and broth in your slow cooker, then refrigerate overnight and cook in the morning.
What can I serve this dish with?
This dish pairs beautifully with rice, tortillas, or even on top of a crisp salad. You could also serve it with avocado and lime for extra flavor.
Is it suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes! This Crock Pot Green Enchilada Chicken is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure your enchilada sauce and broth are gluten-free as well.
Final Thoughts
Making my Crock Pot Green Enchilada Chicken is like wrapping up in a cozy blanket after a long day. The flavors dance together, creating a warm embrace that feels like home. It’s not just a meal, but a gathering point for laughter and shared moments. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend feast, this dish brings joy to the table. Each bowl filled with creamy goodness invites memories, smiles, and satisfaction. So grab your slow cooker, and let’s make some magic happen—your family will thank you for it!
Print
Crock Pot Green Enchilada Chicken
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy and flavorful crock pot dish featuring shredded chicken simmered in green enchilada sauce, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 1.1 kg boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 800 ml green enchilada sauce
- 710 ml chicken broth
- 240 ml half and half or Greek yogurt
- 200 g Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 115 g cream cheese, cubed
- 115 g green salsa (salsa verde)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Place the chicken, green enchilada sauce, and chicken broth into the slow cooker and ensure the poultry is fully submerged.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the cooker, shred using two forks, and return the meat to the broth.
- Incorporate the Monterey Jack cheese, cream cheese, half and half or Greek yogurt, and green salsa. Stir to blend thoroughly.
- Continue to cook on low setting for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally until the soup is creamy and smooth.
- Taste and adjust salt and black pepper as needed before serving.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with preferred garnishes such as avocado, cilantro, green onion, and sour cream.
Notes
- For a lower-calorie option, substitute Greek yogurt for half and half.
- Garnishes can be customized based on personal preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg