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Hearty Slow Cooker Chicken and Black Bean Enchilada Casserole

This hearty slow cooker enchilada casserole features tender chicken, black beans, and a creamy, flavorful sauce, layered with tortillas and cheese for an easy and satisfying meal.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Slow cooker
  • Medium bowl
  • Whisk
  • Two forks

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 (10 oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies undrained
  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce
  • 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 6-8 medium size soft flour tortillas cut into 1-inch strips
  • 2 cups shredded Colby-Jack or Mexican blend cheese divided

Optional Toppings

  • sour cream
  • fresh cilantro
  • sliced jalapeños
  • avocado

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Place the chicken breasts or thighs into the bottom of the slow cooker.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the Rotel, black beans, enchilada sauce, softened cream cheese, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder until smooth.

Layering and Cooking

  • Pour half of the sauce mixture over the chicken, then layer with half of the tortilla strips and 1 cup of shredded cheese.
  • Add the remaining chicken, the rest of the sauce mixture, and the remaining tortilla strips. Do not add the last cup of cheese yet.
  • Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreddable. About 30 minutes before serving, shred the chicken and stir it into the sauce.
  • Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top, replace the lid, and cook for another 15-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a bit of lime juice and chili powder before adding it to the slow cooker.