Crockpot Green Chile-stuffed Chicken Breasts

Crockpot Green Chile-stuffed Chicken Breasts Recipe from Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 6-7 hours | Servings: 4

Introduction

This Crockpot Green Chile-stuffed Chicken Breasts recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal. The combination of creamy cheese, spicy green chiles, and tender chicken breasts cooked in a slow cooker creates a mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.

History

The origins of this recipe are not entirely clear, but it is likely inspired by traditional Mexican flavors and ingredients. The use of green chiles, chili powder, and enchilada sauce gives this dish a spicy kick that is balanced out by the creamy cheese and tender chicken.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, pounded thin
3 oz (85 g) cream cheese
0.75 cup shredded cheddar or monterey jack cheese
4 oz (113 g) green chiles
0.5 tsp chili powder
salt and pepper to taste
1 can cream of mushroom soup
0.5 cup hot enchilada sauce

How to prepare

Combine cream cheese, shredded cheese, chiles, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Spread a generous amount of the mixture onto each flattened chicken breast, then roll them up.
Arrange the chicken rolls in the crockpot, with the seam-side facing down.
Top the chicken breast rolls with the remaining cheese mixture, soup, and enchilada sauce.
Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 6 to 7 hours.

Variations

Use different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or cheddar, for a different flavor profile.
Add cooked bacon or diced ham to the cheese mixture for added protein and flavor.
Substitute the green chiles with jalapenos for a spicier kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to pound the chicken breasts thin to ensure even cooking and to make them easier to roll up.

- Use toothpicks to secure the chicken rolls if needed.

- Adjust the amount of green chiles and chili powder to suit your taste preferences.

- For a crispier texture, broil the chicken breasts in the oven for a few minutes after cooking in the crockpot.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Crockpot Green Chile-stuffed Chicken Breasts with rice, quinoa, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Slow cooking the chicken breasts in the crockpot allows the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become tender and juicy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use Greek yogurt or sour cream instead of cream cheese for a lighter option.

- Substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the chicken rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook in the crockpot.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Crockpot Green Chile-stuffed Chicken Breasts with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Crockpot Green Chile-stuffed Chicken Breasts recipe contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this Crockpot Green Chile-stuffed Chicken Breasts recipe contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this recipe contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of this dish provides approximately 30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cream cheese, shredded cheese) and wheat (cream of mushroom soup), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Overall, this recipe is a balanced meal that provides a good amount of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

This Crockpot Green Chile-stuffed Chicken Breasts recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal. With a balance of creamy cheese, spicy green chiles, and tender chicken breasts, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a strong memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Crockpot Green Chile-stuffed Chicken Breasts. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy little kitchen. Maria was a fantastic cook, and I always loved watching her work her magic with ingredients.

She had just returned from a trip to New Mexico, where she had picked up some fresh green chiles. As she pulled out the ingredients to make this dish, I couldn't help but be intrigued. The combination of tender chicken breasts stuffed with spicy green chiles sounded absolutely divine.

Maria began by carefully slicing open the chicken breasts, creating a pocket for the filling. She then mixed together a delicious concoction of chopped green chiles, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese. The aroma that filled the kitchen was absolutely mouth-watering.

Once the filling was ready, Maria carefully stuffed it into each chicken breast pocket, making sure to seal it up tightly. She then placed the stuffed chicken breasts in the crockpot, poured in some chicken broth, and set it to cook on low for several hours.

As the chicken cooked, the scent of the green chiles and cheese filled the kitchen, making my stomach growl in anticipation. I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

Finally, after hours of slow cooking, Maria lifted the lid of the crockpot to reveal the most beautiful sight. The chicken breasts were perfectly cooked, tender and juicy, with the creamy green chile filling oozing out from the center. My mouth watered at the sight.

We sat down at the table to enjoy the meal, and with the first bite, I knew that this recipe would become a favorite in my own kitchen. The tender chicken paired perfectly with the spicy green chiles and creamy cheese, creating a dish that was both comforting and satisfying.

I thanked Maria for sharing the recipe with me, and I made a mental note to add it to my collection of favorite dishes. Over the years, I have made this recipe countless times, each time tweaking it to suit my own tastes.

I have shared this recipe with friends and family, and it has always been met with rave reviews. There is something truly special about the combination of flavors in this dish that never fails to impress.

As I sit here now, reflecting on that day in Maria's kitchen, I am filled with gratitude for the friendships that have enriched my life and the recipes that have been passed down to me. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share that passion with others.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a delicious and comforting meal, look no further than my recipe for Crockpot Green Chile-stuffed Chicken Breasts. I promise you won't be disappointed.