If you love classic chicken enchiladas but want all the flavor with none of the fuss, this Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Casserole is about to become a staple in your kitchen. This recipe transforms simple pantry ingredients into a warm, cheesy, crowd-pleasing Mexican-inspired casserole—perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy weekends at home. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting: the chicken cooks until tender, the tortillas soften into a perfect casserole texture, and the flavors blend beautifully while you go about your day.
Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned pro, this dish delivers consistent, delicious results with minimal effort. Serve it with sour cream, avocado, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime for a restaurant-quality meal right at home.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Yield: 1 casserole
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 cups red enchilada sauce (mild, medium, or hot)
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can corn kernels, drained (or 1 ½ cups frozen corn)
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chiles (Rotel), optional
- 1 medium onion, finely diced (optional but recommended for flavor)
- 8–10 small corn tortillas, cut into strips
- 1–2 cups shredded Mexican blend or cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, cilantro, jalapeños, lime wedges, chopped avocado
Directions
- Layer the Base:
Place the raw chicken breasts into the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour enchilada sauce over the top, ensuring the chicken is fully coated. Add garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and diced onions (if using). - Cook the Chicken:
Cover and cook on Low for 6–7 hours or High for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is fork-tender. - Shred the Chicken:
Remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and return it to the slow cooker. Stir well so the meat absorbs the enchilada sauce. - Add Casserole Mix-ins:
Stir in black beans, corn, and Rotel tomatoes. Add the tortilla strips, mixing gently so they are evenly distributed.
Tip: Corn tortillas hold up best—avoid flour tortillas, which may become gummy. - Add Cheese and Finish Cooking:
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese on top. Cover and cook for an additional 20–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole has thickened. - Serve:
Scoop the casserole into bowls or onto plates. Add your favorite toppings such as sour cream, avocado, fresh cilantro, or lime juice.
Best Practice: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving—this helps it set and improves texture.
Nutrition Facts (per serving) — Estimated values
- Calories: ~375
- Protein: ~32g
- Carbohydrates: ~32g
- Fat: ~14g
- Fiber: ~7g
- Sugar: ~5g
- Sodium: ~980mg
(Values will vary depending on enchilada sauce brand, cheese amount, and tortilla type.)
Pro Tip:
If you’ve been making do without a slow cooker—or you’re working with an older model—you’ll be amazed at how much easier and more flavorful this recipe becomes with a reliable, modern slow cooker. Newer models heat more evenly, offer programmable timers, and maintain precise temperatures so dishes like this Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Casserole turn out perfectly tender every time. Investing in a quality slow cooker isn’t just about convenience; it’s a game-changer for busy home cooks who want effortless, delicious meals waiting for them at the end of the day. If you're considering upgrading or finally adding one to your kitchen, now is the perfect time. Click the button below to explore top-rated slow cookers on Amazon and find your perfect fit.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Casserole delivers everything you love about enchiladas—melty cheese, bold flavors, and tender chicken—without the rolling, layering, or extra dishes. It’s an effortless, reliable recipe perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd on a budget.
Because the slow cooker develops rich flavors over time, this dish tastes just as delicious the next day, making it ideal for leftovers or weekly lunch prep. With simple ingredients and foolproof steps, this recipe is accessible for beginners yet flavorful enough to satisfy seasoned home cooks.
If you're looking for a hearty, satisfying, and easy Mexican-inspired meal, this casserole will quickly become one of your go-to favorites. Enjoy—and don’t forget the toppings!
