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#### **Step 2: Dump Everything Into the Slow Cooker (or Baking Dish)**
Once your ingredients are prepped, it’s time to start the dump meal magic. For this recipe, you’ll be using either a slow cooker or an oven.
– **Slow Cooker Method**: Set your slow cooker to the low setting. Dump the following ingredients directly into the slow cooker:
– Chicken breasts
– Canned corn (with liquid)
– Canned black beans (drained and rinsed)
– Canned diced tomatoes (undrained)
– Frozen mixed vegetables
– Taco seasoning
– Chicken broth
Don’t forget to give it all a good mix, ensuring the chicken is evenly covered with the seasoning and vegetables. The liquid from the corn, tomatoes, and chicken broth will help cook the chicken and keep it moist.
– **Oven Method**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large casserole dish or baking pan, combine all the ingredients as mentioned above. Cover the dish with foil or a lid to trap the moisture. Bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the flavors are well combined. You can check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer; it should read at least 165°F (74°C).
#### **Step 3: Let It Cook and Relax**
Now that everything is in the slow cooker or oven, it’s time to let it cook. If you’re using a slow cooker, set it on low for about 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The long cooking time allows all the flavors to meld together and makes the chicken incredibly tender.
If you’re baking it in the oven, check the dish after about 45 minutes. You may need to add a little more broth or water if it looks too dry. After an hour of baking, the dish should be ready.
#### **Step 4: Shred the Chicken**
Once the chicken is cooked, it’s time to shred it. Using two forks, gently pull apart the chicken breasts right in the slow cooker or baking dish. The chicken will shred easily, especially after being cooked in the flavorful broth. Stir the shredded chicken back into the sauce, so the meat absorbs all of those tasty juices.
#### **Step 5: Serve and Enjoy**
You’ve made it! Now it’s time to serve up your delicious and budget-friendly dump meal. Here are a few ways to serve it:
1. **With Rice**: Serve the shredded chicken and vegetable mixture over a bed of rice for a hearty meal.
2. **With Tortilla Chips**: Scoop up the dish with crunchy tortilla chips for a fun, Tex-Mex twist.
3. **With Cheese and Sour Cream**: Top each serving with a little shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and some fresh cilantro for added flavor.
4. **On Tacos or Burritos**: You can also serve the mixture in soft tortillas for tacos or burritos. Add a squeeze of lime and some sliced avocado for extra flair.
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### **Customization Tips**
This dump meal is very versatile, and you can easily tweak it to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
1. **Vegetarian Version**: For a vegetarian option, simply omit the chicken and replace it with an additional can of beans (e.g., kidney beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas). You could also add more vegetables or a meat substitute like tofu or tempeh.
2. **Spice It Up**: If you like a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the mix. You could also add a bit of hot sauce or salsa when serving.
3. **Make It Creamy**: If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a block of cream cheese or a cup of sour cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will add richness to the dish.
4. **Grain-Free Version**: For a low-carb or grain-free version, simply skip the rice and serve the dish as-is or on top of a salad.
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### **Why This Dump Meal is Perfect**
1. **Incredibly Easy**: No chopping, no complicated cooking techniques—just dump everything into the pot and let it cook.
2. **Affordable**: This recipe is budget-friendly, costing about $12 or less, which makes it perfect for large families, gatherings, or anyone on a tight budget.
3. **Feeds a Crowd**: It serves at least 6-8 people, so it’s great for meal prepping or feeding a large group.
4. **Customizable**: You can modify this recipe to suit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
5. **Leftovers**: The leftovers store well in the fridge and make great meals for the next few days. You can also freeze it for later use.
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### **Conclusion**
This super easy dump meal is a game-changer for busy weeknights, large gatherings, or anyone who loves a hearty and budget-friendly dish. With just a few simple ingredients, a slow cooker or oven, and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious meal that feeds a crowd for $12 or less. It’s the perfect solution when you’re craving something comforting without a lot of effort.
Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the simplicity and affordability of a truly satisfying meal. Whether you’re serving it over rice, with tortilla chips, or in tacos, this dump meal will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!
