Crockpot Creamy Chicken Nachos

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Introduction:

Looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both delicious and easy to make? Look no further than Crockpot Creamy Chicken Nachos! This mouthwatering recipe combines tender shredded chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and all your favorite nacho toppings for a truly unforgettable snack or meal. Plus, it’s made in the crockpot, so you can set it and forget it until it’s time to serve. Let’s dive into the details of this irresistible dish.

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • Tortilla chips, for serving
  • Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sliced jalapenos, diced onions, sliced black olives, guacamole, salsa, sour cream

Instructions:

  1. Begin by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the chicken broth and taco seasoning. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
  3. Add the salsa, black beans, and diced green chilies to the crockpot, spreading them evenly over the chicken.
  4. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  5. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir to combine with the other ingredients.
  6. In a separate saucepan, heat the shredded cheddar cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and sour cream over low heat, stirring constantly, until the cheeses are melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  7. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the chicken mixture in the crockpot and stir until everything is well coated.
  8. To serve, arrange tortilla chips on a large platter or individual plates. Spoon the creamy chicken mixture over the chips, then top with your favorite toppings, such as diced tomatoes, sliced jalapenos, diced onions, sliced black olives, guacamole, salsa, and sour cream. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top for a burst of flavor.
  9. Dig in and enjoy your deliciously creamy chicken nachos!

Serving Tips:

  1. Serve the Crockpot Creamy Chicken Nachos immediately after preparing them to enjoy them at their best. The warm, gooey cheese and tender chicken are irresistible straight from the crockpot.
  2. Arrange the nachos on a large platter for sharing or individual plates for a more personal touch. Be sure to pile on plenty of toppings for extra flavor and texture.
  3. Consider setting up a nacho bar with a variety of toppings so guests can customize their nachos to their liking. This adds a fun and interactive element to any gathering.

Storage Tips:

  1. If you have any leftover creamy chicken mixture, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  2. Store any leftover toppings, such as diced tomatoes, sliced jalapenos, or guacamole, separately in their own containers to maintain freshness.
  3. To reheat the nacho mixture, simply microwave it until heated through, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
  4. Avoid storing assembled nachos with the chips and toppings already on them, as they will become soggy over time. Instead, store the components separately and assemble fresh nachos when ready to enjoy.
  5. If you find yourself with leftover tortilla chips, store them in an airtight container to help maintain their crispness. If they do become stale, you can revive them by spreading them out on a baking sheet and heating them in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes until crisp again.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can make the most of your Crockpot Creamy Chicken Nachos and ensure that they stay fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Enjoy!

FAQ’s

  1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe? It’s not recommended to use frozen chicken breasts as they may affect the cooking time and texture of the dish. It’s best to use thawed chicken for optimal results.
  2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as thighs may require a slightly longer cooking time.
  3. Can I make this recipe without a crockpot? While the crockpot makes this recipe convenient, you can also cook the chicken mixture on the stovetop over low heat. Just be sure to stir frequently to prevent sticking and adjust the cooking time as needed.
  4. Can I freeze the leftover creamy chicken mixture? Yes, you can freeze the leftover chicken mixture in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  5. Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Absolutely! You can omit the chicken and replace it with additional beans or your favorite vegetarian protein alternative, such as tofu or tempeh.
  6. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free taco seasoning and ensuring that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
  7. Can I use different types of cheese? Of course! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste preferences. Pepper jack, mozzarella, or even a creamy cheese like queso blanco would work well in this recipe.
  8. Can I prepare the creamy cheese sauce ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before pouring it over the chicken mixture.
  9. Can I make this recipe spicy? Absolutely! You can adjust the level of spice in this recipe by using hot salsa, adding extra diced jalapenos, or sprinkling on some crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
  10. Can I serve these nachos as a main dish? Yes, these nachos can definitely be served as a main dish, especially if you load them up with plenty of protein-rich chicken and beans along with your favorite toppings. They’re sure to satisfy even the heartiest appetites!
Conclusion:

With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch of Crockpot Creamy Chicken Nachos that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, a casual get-together with friends, or just craving a tasty snack, these nachos are sure to be a hit. So fire up your crockpot and get ready to indulge in cheesy, creamy, flavor-packed goodness!

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