If you’re looking for a simple, delicious, and budget-friendly dinner idea, this Crock Pot Chicken Enchilada Casserole is about to become your new go-to recipe. With just 4 ingredients, minimal prep, and a whole lot of flavor, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Plus, it yields a substantial amount of leftovers, so you can enjoy it for days!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Simply toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work.
- Budget-Friendly: Only 4 main ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.
- Leftovers for Days: This casserole is hearty and makes enough to feed a small army.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this cheesy, saucy casserole:
- 3 large chicken breasts
- 2 cans of red enchilada sauce (1 large, 1 small)
- 2 cans of sliced olives
- 1 large bag of shredded cheese
Optional toppings: Sour cream, green onions, or a sprinkle of cilantro for garnish.
Directions
- Cook the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts and both cans of enchilada sauce into your crock pot. Set it to high and let it cook for 6 hours. The chicken will become tender and soak up all that enchilada goodness.
- Shred the Chicken: After 6 hours, remove the chicken from the crock pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot, mixing it back into the sauce.
- Prep the Tortillas: Grab a pack of tortillas (about 40 small ones) and cut them into quarters using a pizza cutter. You’ll end up with little tortilla triangles.
- Assemble the Casserole: Add the tortilla pieces, a generous handful of shredded cheese (measure with your heart!), and the large can of sliced olives to the crock pot. Mix everything together, ensuring the tortillas are well-coated in the sauce.
- Top It Off: Sprinkle more shredded cheese on top, along with the smaller can of sliced olives. Cover the crock pot with the lid and let it cook until the cheese is fully melted.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the cheese is gooey and melted, your casserole is ready to serve! Scoop it onto plates and top with a dollop of sour cream for an extra creamy finish.
Pro Tips
- Cheese Lovers Unite: Don’t hold back on the cheese! The more, the merrier.
- Customize It: Add diced green chiles, black beans, or corn for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
- Meal Prep Hero: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick and satisfying meal.
Why This Recipe Works
This Crock Pot Chicken Enchilada Casserole is the perfect combination of comfort food and convenience. The slow-cooked chicken absorbs all the flavors of the enchilada sauce, while the tortillas transform into a soft, cheesy, casserole-like texture. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to make.
So, the next time you’re craving something hearty, cheesy, and downright delicious, give this recipe a try. Your family will thank you, and you’ll love how simple it is to throw together. Don’t forget the sour cream—it’s the cherry on top of this enchilada masterpiece!