Ingredients
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups tomato sauce (or low carb marinara such as Rao’s or Yo Mama’s)
1 lime, juiced
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp chili powder
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack, freshly grated)
½ cup full-fat sour cream, for serving
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Low carb tortillas (optional) – such as Mission Carb Balance or La Banderita®
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
-
Prepare the sauce base
In your slow cooker, combine tomato sauce, lime juice, sliced onion, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the spices are evenly mixed into the sauce. -
Add the chicken
Place the chicken breasts directly into the sauce mixture, making sure they are fully coated. -
Slow cook to perfection
Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 5–6 hours, until the chicken is tender and easy to shred. -
Shred the chicken
Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken inside the slow cooker. Mix it well so the chicken absorbs all that flavorful sauce. -
Add the cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and cook for about 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. -
Optional tortilla layer
If using low carb tortillas, place them over the shredded chicken before adding the cheese. This adds a soft enchilada-like texture without too many extra carbs. -
Serve and garnish
Spoon the casserole into bowls or plates. Top with sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, or green onions if desired.
Notes
- Cheese tip: Always shred your cheese from a block for the best melt and flavor.
- Make it spicier: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
- Make it creamier: Stir in a few tablespoons of cream cheese right before adding the shredded cheese.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
- Meal prep hack: Double the recipe and use the leftovers for low carb enchilada bowls, stuffed peppers, or lettuce wraps.