Creamy Low-Fat Mexican Chicken and Black Beans Delight
Indulge in this flavorful and wholesome Creamy Low-Fat Mexican Chicken and Black Beans Delight, a perfect dish for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays! Cooked in a convenient crock pot, this recipe combines tender boneless skinless chicken breasts with nutrient-rich black beans and sweet corn, all enveloped in a zesty salsa. The addition of fat-free cream cheese and nonfat sour cream creates a creamy texture without the guilt. Whether served over brown rice, lettuce wraps, or enjoyed on its own, this dish delivers satisfying protein and fiber packed goodness. It's not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors that the whole family will love!
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Boneless skinless chicken breasts
4-5 (trimmed and ready to cook)
Black beans
1 can (15 1/2 ounces) (drained)
Corn
1 can (15 ounces) (drained)
Salsa
1 jar (15 ounces) (choose your favorite flavor)
Fat-free cream cheese
4 ounces (softened)
Nonfat sour cream
4 ounces (optional, for added creaminess)
Instructions
1
In a crock pot, layer the boneless skinless chicken breasts at the bottom.
2
Add the drained black beans, corn, and salsa on top of the chicken, making sure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
4
About 45 minutes before cooking is complete, add the softened fat-free cream cheese and nonfat sour cream, stirring gently to incorporate.
5
Cover and continue cooking for the remaining time, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to become creamy.
6
Once done, shred the chicken with two forks right in the pot and mix thoroughly with the sauce before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Low-Fat Mexican Chicken and Black Beans Delight?
It is a flavorful, wholesome crock pot dish featuring chicken breasts, black beans, corn, and salsa, made creamy with fat-free dairy.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield approximately 4 servings.
What are the primary ingredients needed?
You will need 4-5 boneless skinless chicken breasts, canned black beans, canned corn, a jar of salsa, fat-free cream cheese, and optional nonfat sour cream.
How long should I cook the chicken on low heat?
The chicken should be cooked on the low setting for 6 hours.
How long should I cook the chicken on high heat?
If you are in a hurry, you can cook it on high for 4 hours.
When do I add the cream cheese?
The softened fat-free cream cheese should be added about 45 minutes before the total cooking time is complete.
Is the sour cream required for this recipe?
No, the nonfat sour cream is optional but recommended for added creaminess.
Should I drain the black beans and corn?
Yes, both the black beans and the corn should be drained before being added to the crock pot.
What type of salsa is best for this dish?
You can use any 15-ounce jar of your favorite salsa, depending on your preferred heat level and flavor profile.
How do I shred the chicken?
Once the chicken is tender and fully cooked, you can shred it directly in the pot using two forks.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as low-fat and healthy, utilizing lean protein and fiber-rich beans and corn.
Can I serve this over rice?
Absolutely! Serving it over brown rice is a great way to enjoy the protein and fiber-packed goodness.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it is a great option for busy weeknights and can be portioned out for future meals.
What size cans of beans and corn should I use?
The recipe calls for one 15 1/2 ounce can of black beans and one 15 ounce can of corn.
How much cream cheese is required?
The recipe requires 4 ounces of softened fat-free cream cheese.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
While the recipe specifies trimmed chicken, you can use frozen breasts, but you may need to increase the cooking time.
What are some low-carb serving options?
For a lower-carb meal, you can serve the chicken mixture in lettuce wraps or enjoy it on its own.
Is this a family-friendly recipe?
Yes, it is tagged as family-friendly and is a crowd-pleasing dish that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
Does this recipe contain much fiber?
Yes, the black beans and corn provide a significant amount of dietary fiber.
Can I add extra vegetables to the crock pot?
Yes, feel free to add bell peppers or onions to enhance the nutrient profile and flavor.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to layer the boneless skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the crock pot.
Do I need to stir the ingredients immediately?
No, you layer the chicken, beans, corn, and salsa, then stir in the dairy only at the end of the cooking process.
Can I use full-fat dairy instead?
While the recipe focuses on being low-fat, you can substitute with full-fat versions if you prefer, though the nutritional profile will change.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 6 main ingredients used in this dish.
Is this recipe easy to make?
Yes, it is categorized as an easy recipe with simple crock pot instructions.
What is the total preparation time?
Preparation is minimal; the majority of the time is hands-off cooking in the crock pot for 4 to 6 hours.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used, though they may slightly increase the fat content.
Should I soften the cream cheese beforehand?
Yes, softening the cream cheese ensures it incorporates smoothly into the sauce without leaving lumps.
What kind of flavor profile does this dish have?
It has a zesty, creamy, and savory Mexican-inspired flavor profile.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well in airtight containers, making it perfect for later use.