Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken is a simple and flavorful dish that can be prepared with minimal effort. Just toss the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it do the work for you!
This easy slow cooker recipe allows you to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal with minimal preparation. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish brings together tender chicken and zesty salsa for a family-pleasing dinner.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup
- Flavorful combination of chicken and salsa
- Perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners
The Benefits of Slow Cooking
Slow cooking is not just about convenience; it also enhances the flavors of your dish. When you cook at low temperatures for an extended period, the ingredients have time to meld together, creating a rich and satisfying flavor profile. This Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken is a prime example of how slow cooking can transform simple ingredients into a delicious meal that your family will love.
Another benefit of using a slow cooker is the ability to set it and walk away. With busy schedules, it can be challenging to find time to prepare meals. This recipe allows you to prepare a wholesome dinner without being tied to the kitchen. Simply add your ingredients, set the timer, and enjoy your day while the slow cooker does all the hard work.
Versatile Serving Suggestions
One of the great things about this salsa chicken recipe is its versatility. You can serve it in numerous ways: over rice, in tacos, or even as a filling for burritos. The flavorful chicken pairs well with various sides, such as black beans, corn, or a fresh salad, making it a perfect option for any occasion.
If you're looking to add some crunch, consider serving the shredded chicken on top of tortilla chips for a delightful nacho platter. Just add your favorite toppings, such as cheese, avocado, and jalapeños, for a fun and interactive meal that everyone will enjoy.
Meal Prep Made Easy
This Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken is an excellent choice for meal prepping. Cook a batch at the beginning of the week, and you’ll have ready-to-eat meals that can be enjoyed throughout the week. Simply store the shredded chicken in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and you can quickly reheat it for lunches or dinners.
Not only does this recipe save time, but it also helps you manage portion sizes, making it easier to stick to your dietary goals. Combine the salsa chicken with various sides to keep your meals exciting and nutritious, ensuring you never get bored with your meal prep.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make your salsa chicken:
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
These ingredients will create a flavorful dish that your whole family will love!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your salsa chicken:
Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and season with cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Add Salsa
Pour the salsa over the seasoned chicken, covering it evenly.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Serve
Shred the chicken in the slow cooker and stir to combine with the salsa. Serve with fresh cilantro on top.
Enjoy your delicious and easy salsa chicken!
Tips for Perfect Salsa Chicken
For the best results, choose high-quality salsa that complements your taste. Whether you prefer mild, medium, or hot salsa, the choice will significantly impact the final flavor of your dish. Don't hesitate to experiment with different brands or homemade salsa to find your favorite combination.
If you're short on time, you can also use frozen chicken breasts. Just add a bit more cooking time, and you'll still achieve tender, flavorful chicken. Remember to adjust the seasoning if your salsa is particularly spicy or mild to achieve a balanced flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover salsa chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure it's cooled down before transferring it to airtight containers. For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken in portioned containers. It can be frozen for up to three months and is perfect for those busy nights when you need a quick meal.
To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop. Adding a splash of broth or water can help retain moisture and keep the chicken tender during reheating.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to increase the cooking time by about an hour.
→ Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. Just add them to the slow cooker in the morning.
→ What can I serve with salsa chicken?
This chicken goes great with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad. You can also use it as a filling for tacos.
→ Can I substitute the salsa?
Yes, feel free to use your favorite salsa or even a different sauce, like BBQ or teriyaki, for a unique twist.
Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken
This Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken is a simple and flavorful dish that can be prepared with minimal effort. Just toss the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it do the work for you!
Created by: Phoebe Drake
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
How-To Steps
Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and season with cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Pour the salsa over the seasoned chicken, covering it evenly.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Shred the chicken in the slow cooker and stir to combine with the salsa. Serve with fresh cilantro on top.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 40g