Crockpot Salsa Chicken is the perfect answer to a busy weeknight dinner where fantastic flavor meets convenience. This delightful dish combines tender chicken breasts with zesty salsa, taco seasoning, and wholesome beans and corn, creating a warm meal that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. Set it and forget it with your crockpot, and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious meal ready for you when you’re home!

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 hours (on low) or 3-4 hours (on high)
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes (on low) or 3 hours 10 minutes (on high)
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 380
Protein: 31 grams
Carbohydrates: 32 grams
Fat: 14 grams
Fiber: 6 grams
Sugar: 3 grams
Sodium: 780 mg

Why Make This Crockpot Salsa Chicken

This Crockpot Salsa Chicken recipe is a favorite among busy families and home cooks alike for a number of reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal preparation—just toss the ingredients into your crockpot and let them simmer throughout the day. The result is tender, flavorful chicken that pairs perfectly with various sides. Moreover, it’s a healthy, protein-packed meal that incorporates fresh ingredients, making it a delicious option for a nutritious weeknight dinner.

How to Make Crockpot Salsa Chicken

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup salsa
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can black beans (drained and rinsed)
1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. This helps them cook evenly and soak up all the delicious flavors.

Step 2: Mixing

Pour the salsa over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated. This will infuse the chicken with a tangy and spicy flavor throughout cooking.

Step 3: Cooking

Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the top of the salsa-covered chicken. Next, add in the black beans and corn, giving everything a gentle stir to combine. Set your crockpot to cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender and easily shred itself.

Step 4: Finishing

About 30 minutes before serving, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks. Stir in the shredded cheese, letting it melt into the flavorful mixture. This step creates a creamy and hearty meal that everyone will love!

How to Serve Crockpot Salsa Chicken

Crockpot Salsa Chicken is versatile and delicious on its own, but it also shines when paired with sides. Serve it as a filling for warm tortillas to create tasty tacos, over a bed of rice for a satisfying bowl, or even atop a fresh salad for a lighter option. You can also garnish with chopped cilantro, avocado, or a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor!

How to Store Crockpot Salsa Chicken

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to extend the life of this meal, it freezes well too! Just portion it into freezer-safe containers and it will keep for about 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.

Expert Tips for Perfect Crockpot Salsa Chicken

Feel free to adjust the spice level of your dish by choosing medium or hot salsa.
You can substitute the chicken breasts for thighs, or even use beef or pork for a different twist.
For added freshness, stir in some chopped fresh cilantro right before serving.
Make it a one-pot meal by adding bell peppers or onions along with the other ingredients for added flavor.

Delicious Variations

Taco Bowl: Serve over brown rice with guacamole and sour cream for a taco bowl meal.
Enchiladas: Roll the shredded chicken in tortillas, top with enchilada sauce, and bake for 20 minutes at 350°F for delicious enchiladas.
Vegetarian Style: Replace chicken with a combination of beans, lentils, and veggies for a hearty vegetarian version.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook this on the stove instead of a crockpot?
Yes, you can! Simply cook the chicken in a pot on medium heat, adding the salsa and spices for about 30-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, frozen chicken breasts can go directly into the crockpot, but make sure to increase the cooking time. Cook on low for at least 8 hours if using frozen chicken.
What can I use if I don’t have taco seasoning?
You can make your own taco seasoning using chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Is there a way to make this spicier?
Sure! You can add sliced jalapeños or use a spicy salsa blend to bring up the heat.
Can leftovers be reheated?
Absolutely! Just microwave portions until warmed through, or heat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary.

Conclusion

Crockpot Salsa Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a delightful culinary experience that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavors. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe brings a taste of homecooked comfort to your dinner table without the fuss. Whether you’re serving it to your family, friends, or just yourself, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your meal rotation. Go ahead and give this recipe a try—you’ll be amazed at how effortless and delicious it is!

Crockpot Salsa Chicken

Author: mia-harper
Total Time: 400 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A simple and flavorful dish combining tender chicken breasts, zesty salsa, and wholesome beans and corn, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup salsa
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can black beans (drained and rinsed)
1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
Pour the salsa over the chicken, ensuring they’re well coated.
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the salsa-covered chicken, then add black beans and corn, stirring gently to combine.
Set the crockpot to cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
About 30 minutes before serving, shred the chicken in the crockpot and stir in the shredded cheese until melted.

Notes

Great for tacos, rice bowls, or salads. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 390 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 380
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 31g
Cholesterol: 80mg