Upon discovering the recipe for these amazing Crockpot Creamy Chicken Nachos, I was immediately inspired to give them a try! They embody the ultimate convenience of a “dump and go” meal, making them a perfect fit for the slow cooker.
Chicken nachos are a crowd-pleaser that’s not only scrumptious but also incredibly simple to prepare. The beauty of using a slow cooker is that it takes on the heavy lifting. You just need to layer the ingredients inside and let it work its magic. The result? A cheesy, savory concoction that’s bound to be a hit, prompting your guests to eagerly request more.
This dish involves layering crispy tortilla chips with tender chicken, a generous amount of melted cheese, and any other toppings you crave, offering a customizable culinary adventure. Whether you’re planning a laid-back gathering or in need of a no-fuss weekday meal, Crockpot Creamy Chicken Nachos are your go-to option. Don’t hesitate to mix up the toppings to suit your taste preferences. Next time you’re in search of a meal that’s both effortless and delightful, remember to give Crockpot Creamy Chicken Nachos a whirl.
Why Crockpot Recipes?
The crockpot, or slow cooker, is a marvel of modern culinary convenience. It allows flavors to meld and deepen over several hours, resulting in dishes that are rich in taste and tender to the bite. Crockpot cooking is especially suitable for busy individuals since it requires minimal active cooking time, freeing you up to tackle your day.
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Nachos
Crafting the perfect Crockpot Creamy Chicken Nachos requires a balance of flavorful ingredients, melding together to create a dish that’s as satisfying to eat as it is fun to prepare. Here’s a comprehensive list of what you’ll need to bring this comforting, crowd-pleasing recipe to life:
For the Chicken:
-
1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (whichever you prefer, both work great for tenderness and flavor)
-
1 tsp garlic powder (for a hint of garlicky goodness)
-
1 tsp cumin (adds a warm, earthy flavor)
-
1 tsp chili powder (for that essential kick)
-
1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
-
1/2 tsp black pepper (for a bit of spice)
-
1/2 cup chicken broth (helps to keep the chicken moist during cooking)
For the Nacho Assembly:
-
1 bag (about 8-10 oz) tortilla chips (choose a sturdy chip for holding all the toppings)
-
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (melts beautifully, adding creamy texture and rich taste)
-
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (offers a mild flavor that complements the cheddar perfectly)
-
1 can (about 4 oz) diced green chiles (for a mild, tangy flavor boost)
For Topping (Optional, but highly recommended):
-
Sour cream (adds a cool, creamy contrast to the spicy chicken)
-
Diced tomatoes (for freshness and a bit of acidity)
-
Sliced jalapeños (for those who like it hot)
-
Sliced black olives (adds a salty, earthy flavor)
-
Chopped green onions or cilantro (for a burst of color and freshness)
Customization Options:
Feel free to add or substitute any of the toppings based on personal preference. Some popular additions include:
-
Guacamole or diced avocado (for creaminess)
-
Corn (adds sweetness)
-
Beans (black or refried) (for extra protein and fiber)
These ingredients combine to create a dish that’s not just a treat for the taste buds but also a visual feast, perfect for sharing. Remember, the beauty of nachos lies in their versatility, so don’t be afraid to tweak the recipe to suit your tastes or accommodate dietary restrictions.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Creating Crockpot Creamy Chicken Nachos is a breeze with this step-by-step guide. These instructions are designed to help you achieve a deliciously creamy and satisfying dish with minimal effort. Let’s get started!
Ingredients Preparation:
Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have all your ingredients ready. This includes:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Spices (garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper)
- Chicken broth
- Tortilla chips
- Shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese
- Diced green chiles
- Your choice of toppings (e.g., sour cream, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, black olives, green onions, cilantro)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
- In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over your chicken pieces to ensure they’re well-coated.
2. Add Chicken to Crockpot:
- Place the seasoned chicken in the bottom of your Crockpot. Pour the chicken broth over the chicken, ensuring it’s at least partly submerged. The broth helps keep the chicken moist and tender during the slow cooking process.
3. Cook the Chicken:
- Cover the Crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The goal is for the chicken to be so tender it easily shreds with a fork.
4. Shred the Chicken:
- Once the chicken is cooked and tender, remove it from the Crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the Crockpot and stir in the diced green chiles. If you prefer a creamier texture, now is the time to add a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream to the chicken mixture. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
5. Assemble the Nachos:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you plan to melt the cheese in the oven. On a large baking sheet or oven-safe platter, lay out a layer of tortilla chips. Spoon a generous amount of the creamy chicken mixture over the chips. Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the top.
6. Bake the Nachos:
- Place the nachos in the oven for about 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them to prevent the chips from burning.
7. Add Toppings:
- Once the nachos are out of the oven, add your choice of toppings. Popular options include sour cream, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, black olives, and green onions. For a burst of freshness, sprinkle some chopped cilantro over the top.
8. Serve Immediately:
- Nachos are best enjoyed hot and crispy. Serve them immediately after adding the toppings for the best texture and flavor experience.
Serving Suggestions
Serving Crockpot Creamy Chicken Nachos is not just about dishing out a delicious meal; it’s about creating an experience that brings people together. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate this delightful dish to the next level:
Directly from the Crockpot:
-
Family-Style Feast: Keep the nachos in the crockpot set on “warm,” allowing family and friends to gather around and serve themselves. This method keeps the chicken and cheese tantalizingly gooey. Place a variety of toppings and sauces around the crockpot, letting everyone customize their plate.
Platter Presentation:
-
Layered Delight: For a more visually appealing presentation, carefully layer the nachos on a large serving platter. Start with a base layer of tortilla chips, followed by the creamy chicken mixture, then a generous sprinkle of cheese, and repeat. Broil for a few minutes until the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly, then add your cold toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and fresh cilantro. This method ensures each chip is loaded with flavor.
Individual Servings:
-
Mini Nacho Plates: If you’re hosting a more formal event or want to ensure everyone gets a fair share, serve the nachos on small, individual plates. This is also a great way to present the dish for children, making it easier for them to enjoy without the mess.
Accompaniments:
-
Side Dishes: Serve the nachos with sides that complement the main dish without overpowering it. Think light salads, like a fresh corn or bean salad, to add a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy nachos.
-
Dips and Sauces: Offer a variety of dips and sauces on the side. Classic choices include guacamole, salsa, and sour cream, but feel free to get creative with options like queso or a spicy green chile sauce.
Beverage Pairings:
-
For Adults: A cold beer or a margarita pairs beautifully with the spicy, cheesy flavors of the nachos.
-
For All Ages: A refreshing pitcher of homemade lime or strawberry lemonade makes a delightful complement to the savory dish.
Dessert:
-
Light and Sweet: After a hearty serving of nachos, opt for a light dessert. Fresh fruit, simple pastries, or a scoop of sorbet are excellent choices that will satisfy the sweet tooth without being too heavy.
By considering these serving suggestions, you’ll not only enhance the eating experience but also ensure that your Crockpot Creamy Chicken Nachos become a memorable meal that your guests will talk about long after the last chip has been devoured.
Crockpot Creamy Chicken Nachos recipe
- Prep Time: 5minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 5mins
- Category: Appetizer, Party, Side Dish, Snack
- Cuisine: American
Description
When I stumbled upon the recipe for these fantastic Crockpot Creamy Chicken Nachos, I was instantly compelled to try them out! They’re remarkably simple to whip up, making them the ideal “set it and forget it” meal for your slow cooker.
Ingredients
Scale
- 20 oz Cream of Chicken Soup (2 cans)10 oz Black Beans (drained (completely optional))
- 14 oz Rotel (whatever level of spice you desire (14 oz can))
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar Cheese
- 2 large Chicken Breasts (diced)
- salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
Dump everything into the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours. (or 2-3 hours on High!)
Serve over tortilla chips and garnish with minced cilantro, sour cream, sliced avocado or black olives, etc. Whatever you like on your nachos!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 people
- Calories: 298 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 530mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 71mg