Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas: Easy, Cheesy, and Crowd-Pleasing

Imagine coming home to a bubbling pot of saucy, cheesy enchiladas—without turning on the oven. That’s the magic of Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas. This is a low-effort, high-reward recipe perfect for weeknights, meal prepping, or feeding a hungry crowd. It’s comforting, full of flavor, and makes dinner feel like a fiesta with minimal effort.

Why I Love This Recipe

Enchiladas can be a bit of a project—but not these. Using a slow cooker transforms them into a one-pot wonder where chicken cooks until tender, tortillas soak up all the saucy goodness, and cheese melts into dreamy layers. You’ll love how hands-off and adaptable this recipe is.

Ingredients

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce
  • 1 (10 oz) can green enchilada sauce (or use all red)
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 8 small flour or corn tortillas
  • Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, jalapeños

Swaps and Notes

  • Meat: Use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker version.
  • Tortillas: Flour tortillas hold together better; corn adds more traditional flavor.
  • Sauce: Mix red and green for a tangy twist, or go all-in on one kind.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas

  1. Cook the Chicken: Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Add both enchilada sauces, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours.
  2. Shred It: Remove chicken and shred with two forks. Return to the sauce in the slow cooker.
  3. Layer It Up: Cut tortillas into quarters. Layer tortillas, chicken mixture, and cheeses in the slow cooker like a lasagna.
  4. Melt and Finish: Cover and cook on low for another 30 minutes until cheese is fully melted.
  5. Serve: Scoop and serve with your favorite toppings!

Tips for Success

  • Spray the slow cooker with nonstick spray for easy cleanup.
  • Use a slotted spoon to serve for less mess.
  • Add beans or corn for more texture and bulk.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Make it a meal with these great sides and drinks:

Storage and Leftover Tips

  • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze portions in single-serve containers. Reheat in the microwave or oven for quick meals.

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Final Thoughts

These Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas are everything I want in a dinner: rich, satisfying, and unbelievably easy. They’re perfect for busy nights, lazy Sundays, or any time you want Mexican-inspired comfort food without the hassle.

Give it a try and tag me with your results! I’d love to hear your favorite toppings or tweaks. Follow for more slow cooker favorites and cozy comfort food recipes.