Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Casserole (Crock Pot)

Looking for delicious low carb crock pot recipes? Try my hearty Chicken Enchilada Casserole! Simple, healthy, and packed with flavor. Get the recipe now!

Welcome to Your New Favorite Comfort Food

Oh my gosh, if you’re like me and you love the rich, savory flavors of enchiladas but are trying to keep it low-carb, have i got something for you! this low carb chicken enchilada casserole is basically a hug in a bowl.

Seriously, with tender shredded chicken and melty cheese, it has all the good stuff without the tortillas. you’ll want to whip this up for those busy weeknights when you just can’t deal!

This dish has roots in traditional mexican cuisine. enchiladas have been around forever, often made with tortillas and filled with all sorts of yummy ingredients.

But hey, we’re skipping the carbs here and making it a little healthier while still keeping it super satisfying. this recipe is sooo easy—just toss everything in the crock pot and let it do its thing!

You can whip this up in about 10 minutes of prep, and then you just let it cook for 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high .

Yep, just let your slow cooker do the magic while you binge-watch your favorite show! this recipe serves 6 people, so it’s perfect for family dinner or even meal prep for the week.

Now, let’s talk about the good stuff. this casserole not only tastes amazing but is packed with protein and minimal carbs.

It's great for anyone following a low-carb lifestyle, like those trendy keto folks. honestly, this dish is fab for game night or a cozy dinner party.

I love serving it with a fresh salad on the side for a little crunch.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity. you get all the delicious flavors of crockpot recipes healthy without the hassle.

You can even reheat leftover chicken easily for lunch the next day. and let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good dump dinner where you just dump all the ingredients into a pot?

So, are you ready to dive into the goodness? Grab your shopping list, and let’s head to the kitchen—your taste buds are about to fall in love!

Ingredients & Equipment

Main Ingredients

Alright, let’s get into the juicy part—the ingredients for the Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Casserole ! This bad boy is super easy to whip up. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1.5 lb (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 can (15 oz / 425g) low-carb enchilada sauce (look for brands that are sugar-free!)
• 1 cup (120g) shredded cheddar cheese (sharp brings more flavor!)
• 1 cup (120g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is best, but you do you!)
• 1 tsp (5g) ground cumin
• 1 tsp (5g) chili powder
• ½ tsp (2.5g) smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Quality Indicators

Fresh chicken is key! Look for bright color and no weird smells. Try to grab sauces without added sugars. Aim for sharp cheddar for that real flavor punch.

Seasoning Notes

Now let’s talk seasons and flavors. These are your essential spice combinations :

• Cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika create that authentic Mexican taste.
• Want a kick? Toss in some red pepper flakes!

Quick Substitutions

No cumin? No problem! Try taco seasoning or even Italian herbs. Just a pinch of creativity can really switch things up!

Equipment Needed

Okay, before you start, make sure you have these must-have tools:

• Your trusty crock pot (or slow cooker) —this is the star of your kitchen show!
• Mixing bowl for those seasonings
• Measuring cups and spoons (gotta get those servings right!)
• A wooden spoon or spatula for mixing things up

Household Alternatives

No crock pot? No sweat! A Dutch oven or a big pot on low heat works wonders too. Just keep an eye on it.

Now, you’re all prepped for this delicious dish! it's perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without the carbs.

You'll feel like a kitchen rock star whipping up these low carb crock pot recipes that family and friends will love! plus, who doesn’t dig a good dump dinner? just toss everything in and go about your day!

Honestly, i can't wait for you to dig into this tuscan garlic chicken vibe. it's like a comforting hug on a plate.

So, grab your ingredient list and let's make some magic happen!

Cooking Method for Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Let’s kick this off, yeah? cooking should be fun, and this low carb chicken enchilada casserole is chef’s kiss ! you won’t even miss those pesky tortillas.

Plus, we all love a good crock pot dish—just dump and go, right? before diving into the yumminess, let’s lay down some essential prep steps.

Prepping the Ingredients

First things first: mise en place , my friends! get everything ready so you’re not scrambling around like a headless chicken.

Chop your onions and mince that garlic. you don’t want to be in the middle of cooking and realize you forgot an ingredient! another good tip? organize your spices and sauces in order of use.

It’s a total time-saver!

And hey, safety reminder time! When dealing with raw chicken, wash your hands and surfaces. Trust me; you don’t wanna be the one dealing with chicken-related issues.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to bring this beauty to life:

1. Prep the chicken: place 1.5 lb of boneless, skinless chicken in your crock pot. season it! sprinkle on salt, pepper, 1 tsp cumin , 1 tsp chili powder , and ½ tsp smoked paprika .

2. Add the Good Stuff: Toss in your diced onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic , then pour that 15 oz can of low-carb enchilada sauce over all that goodness.

3. Let it cook: cover your crock pot and cook on low for 6 hours or go the quicker route and crank it up to high for 3 hours .

   Either way, you want that chicken to be tender!

4. Shred Away: When time’s up, grab two forks and shred that chicken in the pot. Mix in all that saucy goodness.

5. Cheesy layers: stir in half of both the 1 cup cheddar and 1 cup mozzarella cheese into the chicken mix.

   Top with the remaining cheese and cover for an extra 10- 15 minutes to get it nice and melty.

6. Serve Up: Dish out the casserole and feel free to garnish with fresh cilantro, jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream.

Pro Tips for Success!

Want to simplify further? try using a pressure cooker for the chicken first—just 20 minutes at high pressure! and if you’re like me and can’t resist a zing, squeeze fresh lime over the finished dish for that extra kick.

Now, here's where most folks slip up: don’t rush the shredding process. The chicken should be easy to shred—if it’s not, keep cooking!

If you’re looking for make-ahead options, whip this up a day earlier and just reheat! This dish is also perfect for meal prep , giving you a healthy meal all week long.

Well, there you have it! a simple yet satisfying crockpot recipe healthy enough to keep your low-carb goals in check, while being downright delicious.

Trust me, you’ll be revisiting this one. happy cooking!

Recipe Notes

Serving Suggestions: Make It Pretty and Pair It Right

Okay, first things first! when you’re plating up your low carb chicken enchilada casserole , don’t skip the styling! after all, we eat with our eyes first, right? i like to scoop a generous portion onto a rustic plate, sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top, and maybe even a dollop of sour cream.

So good! you can also add a few sliced jalapeños for that extra pop of flavor.

Now, for sides—a simple green salad drizzled with a zesty vinaigrette really balances out the richness of the casserole. or! if you want to keep things low-carb, serve it with riced cauliflower.

Toss that in some olive oil and a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing side. and don’t forget to pour yourself a refreshing glass of iced tea or sparkling water to wash it down!

Storage Tips: Keep It Fresh

After enjoying your casserole, you might have leftovers. lucky you! just be sure to let it cool down a bit before storing it.

Pop it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days . easy peasy!

Thinking ahead? you can freeze this dish for later! just make sure to cool it completely, then portion it out in freezer-safe containers.

It should be good for about three months . when you're ready to dig in, just reheat in the microwave or pop it in the oven at 350° f for about 20- 25 minutes.

Seriously, reheating chicken can be a breeze if you store it right!

Variations: Mix It Up

This recipe is like a blank canvas! want a spicier twist? toss in a couple of diced chipotle peppers for a smoky kick.

Or, if you have friends who are plant-based, swap the chicken for zucchini and bell peppers, and add black beans for that protein fix! you can also switch out the enchilada sauce for salsa verde if you're in the mood for something different.

Nutrition Basics: Healthy and Hearty

This dish isn’t just yummy; it’s good for you too! with about 350 calories per serving and 40g of protein , it packs quite a punch without breaking the carb bank.

Plus, with ingredients like chicken and cheese, you're loading up on nutrients. it’s like a fiesta in your mouth, but with less guilt !

In conclusion, making a low carb chicken enchilada casserole in your crock pot is such a win-win. you get a delicious meal that fits into those healthy eating goals.

Plus, who doesn’t love a good dump dinner that makes life just a little easier? so grab your crock pot, and let’s get cooking—it’s gonna be a tasty ride!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some popular low carb crock pot recipes I can try?

Aside from the Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Casserole, popular low carb crock pot recipes include beef stew with root vegetables, chili, and creamy chicken with broccoli. The beauty of crock pot meals is that you can experiment with various meats and low-carb vegetables, making it easy to satisfy different palates.

Can I prepare this low carb crock pot recipe in advance?

Absolutely! You can prep all your ingredients a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just combine them in your crock pot in the morning and let it cook throughout the day—coming home to a ready meal is one of the true joys of life!

How can I make this recipe spicier?

If you're after a spicy kick, try adding diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. You can also use spicy enchilada sauce or sprinkle red pepper flakes for even more heat!

How do I store leftovers from the low carb chicken enchilada casserole?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you’d like to store it longer, consider freezing it. Just ensure it's cooled completely, then wrap tightly or use a freezer-safe container. It should last up to 3 months in the freezer!

What are some good side dishes to serve with this casserole?

You can serve this casserole with a fresh green salad dressed in a zesty vinaigrette or some riced cauliflower for an extra low-carb option. If you want a bit of crunch, think about pairing it with a serving of baked avocado fries!

Can I substitute other proteins instead of chicken?

Definitely! You can substitute chicken with ground beef, turkey, or even shredded pork for a different take. For a vegetarian option, try replacing the protein with diced zucchini, bell peppers, and black beans to keep it hearty and delicious.

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