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Easy One-Pan Crockpot Salsa Chicken Recipe

Easy One-Pan Crockpot Salsa Chicken - featured image

A tender, juicy slow-cooker salsa chicken that mimics the flavor of a beloved taqueria. This simple, one-pan meal is perfect for weeknights and meal prep, requiring minimal prep time and delivering maximum comfort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 to 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 (16-ounce) jar chunky medium or hot salsa
  • 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: fresh cilantro, lime juice, sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado slices

Instructions

  1. Rinse chicken breasts and pat dry. Place them at the bottom of a 4-to-6-quart slow cooker. If breasts are very thick, cut in half horizontally for even cooking.
  2. Dice the yellow onion and mince the garlic. Sprinkle them evenly over the chicken breasts.
  3. In a bowl, combine the salsa, diced green chiles, cumin, chili powder, and chicken broth. Stir well to incorporate spices.
  4. Pour the salsa mixture over the chicken and onions, ensuring all chicken is covered.
  5. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours (or HIGH for 3 to 4 hours).
  6. Remove chicken to a cutting board and let rest for 10 minutes to redistribute juices.
  7. Shred the chicken using two forks.
  8. Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir into the sauce. Let sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb flavors.
  9. Taste and add salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot.

Notes

For best results, use chunky salsa to avoid a watery dish. Do not skip the resting step for the chicken to ensure it stays juicy. If using frozen chicken, ensure it is fully thawed. This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but check labels on salsa and spices. Can be made in an Instant Pot by pressure cooking on high for 10 minutes with a natural release.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot chicken, salsa chicken, slow cooker recipe, easy dinner, meal prep, one-pan meal, Mexican chicken, healthy dinner