This Slow Cooker Queso Chicken is a tasty, cheesy meal that’s oh-so-easy to make! Just toss chicken, cheese, and your favorite spices in the slow cooker and let it do the work.
Perfect for busy days, this dish is cozy and comforting. I like to serve it on rice or with tortilla chips. Who can resist that gooey cheese? It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe because they cook nice and tender in the slow cooker. If you prefer, bone-in chicken thighs can also work well and add more flavor.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles: I recommend using a can like Rotel for that added spice. If spicy isn’t your thing, use plain diced tomatoes and add a pinch of chili powder for a milder version.
Taco Seasoning: The packet is super convenient, but you can make your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. This way, you can adjust the flavors to your liking!
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese makes the dish creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use Greek yogurt instead, but add it only after cooking.
How Do I Shred Chicken in the Slow Cooker?
Shredding chicken is a key step to making your Queso Chicken delicious and distributed evenly. Here’s how to do it easily:
- Once the chicken is cooked, switch the slow cooker to keep warm.
- Use two forks to pull the chicken apart gently. Start at one end and pull toward you.
- Continue shredding until all the chicken is in bite-sized pieces.
- Mix it all with the sauce in the slow cooker for that extra flavor.
This technique not only helps in mixing but makes it easier to serve over rice or in tacos!
Slow Cooker Queso Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel), drained
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (plus more for garnish)
- 1 medium tomato, diced (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Slow Cooker Queso Chicken takes about 20 minutes to prepare and around 6-7 hours to cook on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s a great set-and-forget meal that you can come home to. Just let the slow cooker do the magic while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. This will be the base for your cheesy creation!
2. Season the Chicken
Evenly sprinkle the taco seasoning mix over the chicken. This adds a fantastic flavor to your dish!
3. Add the Tomatoes
Next, pour the drained diced tomatoes with green chilies on top of the chicken. This will add moisture and a nice kick!
4. Include Cream Cheese
Scatter the cream cheese chunks over everything in the slow cooker. This will create that creamy texture that makes Queso Chicken irresistible.
5. Cook It Up
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
6. Shred the Chicken
Once fully cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. It’s super easy and helps to combine everything in the sauce!
7. Mix in the Cheeses
Add the shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, sour cream, and chopped cilantro to the shredded chicken. Stir well until everything is melted and nicely combined.
8. Season to Taste
Give a taste to your dish and season with salt and pepper as needed. Adjust the flavors to your liking!
9. Final Touches
Garnish with fresh diced tomato and extra cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. This will look as good as it tastes!
10. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Queso Chicken warm over rice, in tortillas, or with crunchy tortilla chips for dipping. Everyone will love this cheesy, flavorful dish!
Enjoy your easy yet scrumptious Slow Cooker Queso Chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it beforehand for even cooking. Thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge or use the quick method of sealing it in a bag and submerging it in cold water.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the chicken, seasoning, and cream cheese in the slow cooker the night before and store it in the fridge. Just set it to cook the next day when you’re ready!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You can add a bit of cream or sour cream if it looks dry.
What Can I Serve with Queso Chicken?
This dish is great on its own, but you can serve it over rice, in tacos, or with tortilla chips for a fun dip. A side of fresh veggies or a salad pairs nicely too!
