Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken is a delicious and effortless meal that combines the flavors of tender chicken with zesty salsa. Perfect for busy days!
This easy Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. Simply toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work while you enjoy your day!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup
- Packed with flavor and protein
- Versatile dish that can be served in various ways
A Perfect Weeknight Meal
When life gets busy, dinner can often feel like a daunting task. That's where this Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken shines. This recipe allows you to combine simple ingredients into a mouthwatering dish that practically cooks itself. Just set your slow cooker in the morning, and return home to the tantalizing aroma of tender chicken smothered in zesty salsa—a meal that the whole family will love!
Not only is this dish easy to prepare, but it also saves you precious time during hectic evenings. With just a few minutes of prep work, you can walk away and let the slow cooker do its magic. It's the ultimate solution for busy weeknights when you need a healthy and satisfying meal without the fuss.
Versatility at Its Best
One of the best aspects of this Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken is its versatility. You can serve it in a variety of ways; whether you prefer it in tacos, burritos, or over rice, the possibilities are endless. You can also pair it with your favorite sides like beans, corn, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. This adaptability makes it a fantastic go-to recipe for any occasion, from casual family dinners to entertaining guests.
Feel free to customize the spice level by choosing a mild or hot salsa, or even adding your favorite peppers to the mix. This dish is a canvas for your culinary creativity, allowing you to adjust the flavors to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
Healthy and Flavorful
This recipe isn't just convenient; it's also packed with nutrition. Chicken breasts are a great source of lean protein, making this dish a healthy choice for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet. Combined with the fresh ingredients in salsa, you’re getting a dose of vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall well-being.
The spices used, such as cumin and garlic powder, not only enhance the flavor but also offer health benefits. Cumin is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, while garlic can help boost your immune system. Together, they create a dish that is not only tasty but nourishing, making it a win-win for your dinner table.
Ingredients
For the Salsa Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Enjoy your flavorful salsa chicken!
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
Add Salsa and Spices
Pour the salsa over the chicken and sprinkle with cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Cook the Chicken
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Shred and Serve
Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it with the salsa. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Enjoy your meal!
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! This Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Simply place the shredded chicken in an airtight container, and it will retain its flavor for your next meal. This makes it perfect for meal prep, giving you a delicious option for busy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You can also add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. This ensures that each bite remains as flavorful and tender as when it was first cooked.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken, the options are plentiful. For a fun taco night, serve the chicken in soft or hard taco shells with shredded cheese, lettuce, and avocado. Alternatively, you can pile it on top of rice or quinoa for a hearty bowl meal, topped with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.
For a lighter option, consider serving it over a bed of mixed greens or in a lettuce wrap. This adds a refreshing crunch that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken and salsa. Whichever way you choose to enjoy it, you're sure to impress family and friends with this deliciously simple dish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you may need to increase the cooking time.
→ What can I serve with salsa chicken?
Salsa chicken is great served over rice, in tacos, or with a side of vegetables.
→ Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them in the fridge until you're ready to cook.
→ Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, it's a lean protein option that is low in calories and can be part of a balanced diet.
Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken
Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken is a delicious and effortless meal that combines the flavors of tender chicken with zesty salsa. Perfect for busy days!
Created by: Violet Hart
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Salsa Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
Pour the salsa over the chicken and sprinkle with cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it with the salsa. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 32g