Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Effortless Preparation: Simply add the ingredients to your slow cooker and let it work its magic. Minimal prep time means you can focus on other tasks while a delicious meal cooks.
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Crowd-Pleaser: With its creamy, cheesy goodness, this dish is a hit among both adults and children. It’s versatile enough for parties, potlucks, or a family dinner.
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Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level and toppings to suit your preferences. Add jalapeños for heat or black olives for a briny kick.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel)
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1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, cubed
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1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
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Tortilla chips
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Optional toppings: diced jalapeños, black olives, sour cream, chopped cilantro
Directions
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Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the chicken.
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Add Tomatoes and Cream Cheese: Pour the entire can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, including the juice, over the seasoned chicken. Distribute the cubed cream cheese on top.
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Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
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Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot. Stir the mixture to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
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Incorporate Cheeses: Add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses to the crockpot. Stir until the cheeses have melted and the mixture is creamy.
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Serve: Spoon the creamy chicken mixture over tortilla chips. Top with your choice of diced jalapeños, black olives, sour cream, or chopped cilantro. Enjoy!
Servings and Timing
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Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings, making it ideal for family meals or small gatherings.
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Preparation Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
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Total Time: Approximately 6 hours and 10 minutes on low or 3 hours and 10 minutes on high
Variations
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Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy extra heat, add a can of diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers to the crockpot along with the other ingredients.
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Bean Addition: Incorporate a drained can of black beans or pinto beans for added protein and texture.
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Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with a mix of hearty vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Use a vegetarian taco seasoning to maintain the flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store any leftover creamy chicken mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat the mixture in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe container, stirring every 30 seconds until heated. If the mixture appears too thick upon reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to reach the desired consistency.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, ensure they are fully thawed before placing them in the crockpot to promote even cooking and food safety.
What can I substitute for Rotel?
If Rotel is unavailable, substitute with a can of diced tomatoes and a small can of diced green chilies. This combination will provide a similar flavor profile.
Is it possible to make this recipe on the stovetop?
Absolutely. Cook the chicken in a large pot over medium heat until fully cooked, then shred it. Add the remaining ingredients, stirring until the cheeses are melted and the mixture is creamy.
How can I prevent the nachos from becoming soggy?
To maintain crispiness, serve the creamy chicken mixture on the side, allowing individuals to spoon it over their tortilla chips just before eating.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the creamy chicken mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving and assemble the nachos when ready to eat.
What other cheeses can I use?
Feel free to experiment with cheeses like pepper jack for added spice or a Mexican cheese blend for varied flavors.
Are there healthier alternatives to cream cheese?
For a lighter version, substitute the cream cheese with reduced-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt. Note that this may slightly alter the flavor and texture.
Can I cook this on high for a shorter time?
Yes, cooking on high for 3-4 hours will yield similar results. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
What are some alternative serving suggestions?
Beyond nachos, this creamy chicken mixture works well as a filling for tacos, burritos, or ques
PrintCrockpot Creamy Chicken Nachos
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes on low or 3 hours 10 minutes on high
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Crockpot Creamy Chicken Nachos! Featuring tender shredded chicken, zesty tomatoes with green chilies, and a creamy cheese blend, these nachos are perfect for game days, family gatherings, or cozy nights in. Effortless to prepare and fully customizable, this recipe will become a family favorite!
Ingredients
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel)
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, cubed
1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Tortilla chips
Optional toppings: diced jalapeños, black olives, sour cream, chopped cilantro
Instructions
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Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the chicken.
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Add Tomatoes and Cream Cheese: Pour the entire can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (including juice) over the chicken. Distribute the cubed cream cheese on top.
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Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
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Shred the Chicken: Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot and stir the mixture to combine.
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Incorporate Cheeses: Add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring until melted and creamy.
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Serve: Spoon the creamy chicken mixture over tortilla chips and top with your choice of optional toppings. Enjoy!
Notes
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk if it becomes too thick.
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Make Ahead: The creamy chicken mixture can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator, ready to be reheated and served.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Category: Appetizer, Comfort Food, Party Food
- Method: Slow Cooker (Crockpot)
- Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex