Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken is the perfect meal for busy days. Simply toss all the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work while you go about your day.
This Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken is a family favorite that requires minimal effort. Just set it in the morning, and by dinner time, you’ll have a delicious, flavorful meal ready to enjoy.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Effortless meal prep with just a few ingredients
- Packed with flavor from zesty salsa
- Perfect for tacos, salads, or served over rice
Effortless Meal Prep
One of the standout features of this Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken recipe is how easy it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready to go. Simply place the chicken in the slow cooker, add the salsa and spices, and let the machine do the work. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you're looking to meal prep for the week ahead.
Since all the cooking happens in the slow cooker, clean-up is also a breeze. You won't have to worry about multiple pots and pans cluttering your kitchen. Just one pot means less hassle and more time to enjoy your meal with family and friends.
Flavorful and Versatile
The combination of zesty salsa, tender chicken, and nutritious beans and corn creates a flavor profile that is anything but ordinary. The spices, particularly the cumin, add a warm, earthy note that enhances the overall taste of the dish. You can easily customize the flavor by choosing different types of salsa, whether you prefer mild, medium, or hot, depending on your taste preferences.
This salsa chicken is incredibly versatile. It can be served in various ways—whether you're filling tacos, topping a fresh salad, or serving it over a bed of rice. You can even use it as a filling for burritos or enchiladas, making it a fantastic option for meal planning or entertaining.
Healthy and Satisfying
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The chicken provides lean protein, while the black beans and corn add fiber and essential vitamins. Together, these ingredients create a balanced meal that will keep you feeling satisfied throughout the day without weighing you down.
Moreover, using a slow cooker allows for healthier cooking methods since there's no need for excess oils or fats. The natural juices from the chicken and the added salsa create a moist and flavorful dish that is both good for you and enjoyable to eat.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all the ingredients together in the slow cooker for the best results!
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Add the Salsa and Spices
Pour the salsa over the chicken, then sprinkle cumin, salt, and pepper on top.
Add Beans and Corn
Layer the black beans and corn on top of the salsa chicken.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until chicken is cooked through and tender.
Shred and Serve
Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix everything together. Serve with tortillas or over rice.
Enjoy your easy, flavorful meal!
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers after a hearty meal, don’t worry! This salsa chicken stores beautifully in the refrigerator. Simply transfer any remaining chicken and sauce into an airtight container, and it will keep for up to 3-4 days. You can easily reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, making it a quick option for lunch or dinner.
For longer storage, consider freezing the salsa chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag and it can last for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it thoroughly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
There are endless possibilities when it comes to serving your salsa chicken. For a quick and easy meal, serve it in warm corn or flour tortillas, topped with your favorite garnishes like avocado, cilantro, or lime juice. Alternatively, for a heartier option, spoon it over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
If you're looking to incorporate more vegetables into your meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad or roasted veggies. This not only adds color to your plate but also enhances the nutritional value of the meal.
Customizing Your Dish
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can add other ingredients to customize your salsa chicken to your liking. Chopped bell peppers, diced tomatoes, or even jalapeños can be mixed in for extra flavor and texture. This flexibility allows you to adapt the dish according to what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
You can also adjust the spice level by choosing different salsas or adding hot sauce to the mix. Don't hesitate to experiment with herbs and spices, too! A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a dash of chili powder can elevate the dish to new heights.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you may need to extend the cooking time.
→ What can I serve this with?
This dish works great in tacos, burrito bowls, or served over rice.
→ Can I make this spicy?
Absolutely! Use spicy salsa or add chopped jalapeños for heat.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken
This Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken is the perfect meal for busy days. Simply toss all the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work while you go about your day.
Created by: Cassidy Moore
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Pour the salsa over the chicken, then sprinkle cumin, salt, and pepper on top.
Layer the black beans and corn on top of the salsa chicken.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until chicken is cooked through and tender.
Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix everything together. Serve with tortillas or over rice.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 27g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 25g