Pin Tender flavorful chicken cooked in salsa perfect for stuffing tacos burritos or serving over rice bowls. This fussfree dish is ideal for busy weeknights and meal prep.
The first time I made salsa chicken in the slow cooker I was amazed by how easy it is to prepare a flavorful meal with just a few ingredients. Now it's a regular dinner option in our house especially on nights when time is short and everyone craves something delicious.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 2 lbs (900 g) boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Salsa & Seasonings: 2 cups (480 ml) jarred salsa (mild medium or hot) 1 packet (1 oz/28 g) taco seasoning OR 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning 1/2 tsp kosher salt (optional adjust to taste) 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Optional AddIns: 1 cup (170 g) canned black beans drained and rinsed 1 cup (165 g) corn kernels (fresh frozen or canned) 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (for serving) Juice of 1 lime (for serving)
Instructions
- Layer Chicken:
- Place the chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add Seasonings:
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning salt and pepper over the chicken.
- Add Salsa and AddIns:
- Pour the salsa evenly over the top. Add black beans and corn if using.
- Cook:
- Cover and cook on High for 4 hours or Low for 68 hours until the chicken is tender and shreds easily.
- Shred Chicken:
- Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with sauce.
- Serve:
- Serve hot in tacos burritos or bowls. Garnish with cilantro and a squeeze of lime if desired.
Pin Whenever we make salsa chicken it's a hit with kids and adults alike. Everyone enjoys customizing their own taco or rice bowl and the leftovers are always gobbled up the next day.
Required Tools
Slow cooker measuring cups and spoons forks for shredding knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
No allergens in the base recipe. Check storebought salsa and taco seasoning for gluten dairy or other allergens. Optional toppings like cheese or sour cream contain dairy.
Nutritional Information
Calories 210 Total Fat 4 g Carbohydrates 10 g Protein 33 g per serving
Pin Try this slow cooker salsa chicken for a fussfree dinner that satisfies every craving. Cleanup is a breeze and everyone leaves the table happy.
Recipe Q&A
- → What type of chicken is best for slow cooking?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well, though thighs add extra juiciness and tenderness during slow cooking.
- → Can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?
Yes, choose mild, medium, or hot salsa and adjust taco seasoning accordingly. Adding chipotle peppers in adobo creates a smoky, spicy flavor.
- → Is it necessary to shred the chicken after cooking?
Shredding the chicken helps it absorb the salsa and seasonings better, making the dish more flavorful and easier to serve.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
Absolutely. It works great for meal prep and stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for longer storage.
- → What are some suggested serving ideas?
Serve in soft tacos, burritos, or over rice bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for added brightness.