Pin It 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.
My family requests this slow cooker salsa chicken nearly every week. It makes busy evenings so much easier, and I love how everyone can customize their meal with their favorite toppings.
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 Ingredients:
- Place the chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Season:
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning, salt, and pepper over the chicken.
- Add Salsa and Options:
- 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 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 It Every time I make this, my kids crowd around to build their own bowls. It is a fun and delicious way to enjoy dinner together.
Required Tools
All you need is a slow cooker, measuring cups and spoons, forks for shredding, and a knife with cutting board for prepping optional ingredients.
Allergen Information
There are no major allergens in the base recipe. If using store-bought taco seasoning or salsa, check for gluten or dairy. Any optional toppings, like cheese or sour cream, will add dairy.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains about 210 calories, 4 g total fat, 10 g carbohydrates, and 33 g protein.
Pin It This slow cooker salsa chicken makes busy days a breeze and offers endless ways to enjoy fresh, zesty flavors.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs provide extra juiciness and tenderness when slow cooked, enhancing the dish’s flavor.
- → How do I add smoky flavor to the dish?
Incorporate 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce during cooking to introduce a smoky, spicy depth.
- → Is it necessary to shred the chicken before serving?
Shredding ensures the chicken absorbs more salsa and seasonings, creating a moist and evenly flavored filling.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely, leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 4 days and freeze safely for up to 2 months.
- → What are some good serving suggestions?
Serve with rice, lettuce, shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado to complement the savory salsa chicken.
- → Is the dish suitable for gluten-free and dairy-free diets?
Yes, the base dish is gluten-free and dairy-free, but check your salsa and seasoning labels to confirm.