Easy Crockpot Chicken Enchiladas Recipe for Busy Weeknights

If you often find yourself rushing to get dinner on the table after a long day, this recipe is a game changer. These Crockpot Chicken Enchiladas combine convenience with rich, creamy flavors and a protein boost that keeps you full and satisfied. The best part? You prepare the filling in the morning, then just assemble and bake when you get home. This recipe is perfect for anyone who wants a comforting, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Creamy chicken enchilada filling cooking in crockpot

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Crockpot Chicken Enchilada Filling

• 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup cottage cheese (blend until smooth for extra creaminess)

• 1 cup salsa verde

• 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles

• ½ to 1 jalapeño, finely diced (optional, for a little heat)

• ½ cup diced onion

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1½ teaspoons chili powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

• ¾ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

  
  

For Assembling the Enchiladas

• Flour or corn tortillas

• Shredded Mexican-blend cheese or Monterey Jack

• Extra salsa verde (optional, for topping)

  
  

How to Make Crockpot Chicken Enchiladas

Step 1: Prepare the Filling in the Crockpot

Start your day by adding the chicken breasts to the crockpot. Pour in the salsa verde, diced green chiles, onion, jalapeño (if using), and all the seasonings. Spoon the blended cottage cheese over the top. Set the crockpot to LOW for 6 to 7 hours or HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. This slow cooking method allows the chicken to absorb all the spices and flavors, creating a creamy, flavorful base for your enchiladas.

Step 2: Shred the Chicken

Once the cooking time is up, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks. Stir everything together until the mixture is creamy and well combined. The cottage cheese adds a smooth texture and extra protein, making this filling both hearty and healthy.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Fill each tortilla with a generous scoop of the chicken mixture, roll it up, and place it seam-side down in a baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, and add extra salsa verde if you like a little more sauce. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and melted.

Nutrition Facts and Benefits

This recipe is packed with protein, mainly thanks to the chicken and cottage cheese. Cottage cheese is a great source of casein protein, which digests slowly and helps keep you full longer. Using salsa verde and green chiles adds flavor without extra calories, and the spices provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Here’s a rough estimate per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 350-400

• Protein: 40g

• Fat: 12g

• Carbohydrates: 20g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sodium: 700mg (varies with salsa and cheese brands)

  
  

This makes a balanced meal that supports muscle repair and energy, perfect for busy weeknights when you need something filling but not heavy.

Tips for Making This Recipe Your Own

• Swap cottage cheese for cream cheese if you want a richer, creamier texture. It adds a cozy feel to the dish.

• Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option or flour tortillas for a softer wrap.

• Add extra veggies like bell peppers or corn to the filling for more color and nutrients.

• If you prefer less spice, skip the jalapeño or reduce the chili powder.

• Leftovers reheat well and make great lunches the next day.

  
  

This recipe works well for meal prep too. Prepare the filling in advance, then assemble and bake when you’re ready to eat.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Weeknights

The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and timing. You start the crockpot in the morning, which means the slow cooker does most of the work while you focus on your day. When you come home, dinner is almost ready — just roll, top with cheese, and bake. This approach saves time and stress without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.

The creamy, slightly spicy filling feels indulgent but is packed with protein to keep you energized. It’s a perfect example of comfort food that supports your health goals.