Pin this Tender, flavorful chicken cooked in salsa, perfect for stuffing tacos, burritos, or serving over rice bowls. This fuss-free dish is ideal for busy weeknights and meal prep.
I first made this slow cooker salsa chicken on a hectic weekday when I wanted a hearty dinner without much fuss. The house filled with delicious aromas, and everyone loved how versatile the chicken was for tacos or bowls.
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 Add-Ins: 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
- Prepare Chicken:
- Place the chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Season:
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning, salt, and pepper over the chicken.
- Add Salsa & Mix-Ins:
- 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 6–8 hours, until the chicken is tender and shreds easily.
- Shred & Serve:
- Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with sauce. Serve hot in tacos, burritos, or bowls. Garnish with cilantro and a squeeze of lime if desired.
Pin this One weekend, the kids helped add salsa and seasonings to the crockpot, making it a fun, hands-on family meal. Everybody gathers around the dinner table eager to fill tacos and bowls with this tasty chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Try this shredded chicken on rice bowls, wrapped in tortillas for burritos, or as a filling for lettuce cups. Pair with traditional toppings like avocado, shredded cheese, or sour cream if desired.
Allergen Information
The base recipe contains no common allergens. If using store-bought taco seasoning or salsa, always check labels for gluten, dairy, or other allergens. Optional toppings such as cheese and sour cream contain dairy.
Nutrition
Each serving contains approximately 210 calories, 4 g total fat, 10 g carbohydrates, and 33 g protein.
Pin this Serve with your favorite toppings and enjoy a stress-free weeknight dinner. Don’t forget to save leftovers for easy lunches or future meals.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well for this dish and provide extra juiciness and flavor when slow-cooked.
- → How long should I cook the chicken on low heat?
Cooking on low for 6 to 8 hours allows the chicken to become tender and easily shredded.
- → Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
Adding black beans and corn enhances texture and nutrition, and they cook well alongside the chicken.
- → What can I serve with the chicken for a complete meal?
This flavorful chicken pairs nicely with rice, tortillas, or fresh leafy greens for tacos and bowls.
- → How do I store leftovers properly?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.