Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken (Printable)

Savory chicken simmered with salsa and spices, great for quick, flavorful meals and easy meal prep.

# Required Ingredients:

→ Chicken

01 - 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

→ Salsa & Seasonings

02 - 2 cups jarred salsa (mild, medium, or hot)
03 - 1 ounce taco seasoning packet or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning
04 - ½ teaspoon kosher salt (optional)
05 - ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Optional Add-Ins

06 - 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
07 - 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
08 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
09 - Juice of 1 lime (for garnish)

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker.
02 - Sprinkle the taco seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken.
03 - Pour the salsa evenly on top of the seasoned chicken. Add black beans and corn if using.
04 - Cover and cook on High for 4 hours or on Low for 6 to 8 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
05 - Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the sauce.
06 - Serve warm tucked inside tacos, burritos, or over rice bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime, if desired.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Fuss-free main dish for busy weeknights
  • Perfect for meal prep and versatile servings
02 -
  • Chicken thighs make the dish extra juicy.
  • Check labels on store-bought salsa and taco seasoning for allergens if needed.
03 -
  • For even more flavor, add 1 or 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
  • Leftover chicken stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days, or frozen for 2 months.
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