Pin 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 rainy evening when I wanted something hearty but effortless. It quickly became a go-to for busy weekdays because everyone loves to build their own taco 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
- Prep 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 Extras:
- 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 and Mix:
- 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 My kids always jump in to help shred the chicken, and we make a taco night out of it. It&s a family favorite because everyone gets to choose their toppings.
Serving Suggestions
Try serving the salsa chicken over rice, inside lettuce wraps, or with a side of avocado and shredded cheese for more flavor.
Variations
For a smoky twist, add chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. You can also use chicken thighs for juicier results or mix in other beans and vegetables.
Storage and Meal Prep
Let cooled leftovers sit in the fridge for up to four days or freeze portions for busy weeknights when you need a quick meal.
Pin This Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken is simple yet crowd-pleasing. Make it once and it&s sure to join your regular meal rotation!
Recipe FAQ
- → What cut of chicken works best for this dish?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work well; thighs offer more juiciness and tenderness.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, choose mild, medium, or hot salsa and adjust taco seasoning accordingly to suit your preferred heat.
- → Is it possible to add additional vegetables?
Absolutely, black beans and corn are great add-ins that complement the flavors and add texture.
- → How should I serve the slow-cooked chicken?
Serve shredded chicken in tacos, burritos, or over rice bowls. Garnish with cilantro and a squeeze of lime for freshness.
- → What are some tips for reheating leftovers?
Store leftovers in the fridge up to 4 days or freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to retain moisture and flavor.
- → Can I add smoky flavor to the dish?
Yes, adding chipotle peppers in adobo sauce provides a delicious smoky depth to the chicken and salsa.