Discover how to make tender and flavorful Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep.
Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken
If you’re looking for an effortless, flavorful dinner that’s ready when you walk through the door, Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken hits the mark. This slow cooker recipe combines tender chicken breasts with zesty salsa verde and taco seasonings to create a versatile main dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even entertaining a crowd.
Using just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can come home to a delicious meal that can be served over rice, tossed into tacos, or layered on top of salads. Plus, this recipe is a great way to enjoy Mexican-inspired flavors without any complicated techniques.
Easy Weeknight Dinners and Slow Cooker Recipes are always a hit when you want convenience without sacrificing taste. For more tips on healthy and simple meals, check out Food Network.
Why You’ll Love It
Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken is straightforward and fuss-free while delivering big flavors. Slow cooking allows the chicken to soak up the tangy salsa verde, resulting in juicy meat that’s easy to shred. Whether you need a main for tacos, burrito bowls, or nachos, this recipe is a reliable staple. Plus, it’s gluten-free and can easily be adapted for dairy-free or vegan alternatives if needed.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for juicier meat)
- 1 jar (16 oz) salsa verde (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Sensible substitutions include swapping chicken thighs for breasts for more moisture or using a lower-sodium salsa verde for dietary preferences.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot.
- Pour the salsa verde evenly over the chicken.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the entire mixture.
- Add the sliced onion and minced garlic on top.
- Cover and cook on low for about 4 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks, then stir to combine the meat fully with the sauce.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Expert Tips
For perfectly cooked Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken, check the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use chicken thighs for a richer flavor and guaranteed juiciness. If you prefer a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. This recipe also freezes well; portion it into airtight containers for easy meal prep.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze, place shredded chicken and sauce in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove or microwave.
Variations
- Vegan: Substitute jackfruit or firm tofu for chicken and use vegan taco seasoning.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure salsa verde and taco seasoning are certified gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free as is; just check seasoning ingredients.
- Low-Sodium: Use homemade salsa verde and reduce or omit taco seasoning.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken recipe?
- Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but increase the cooking time by about an hour to ensure they are fully cooked.
- How spicy is Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken?
- It has a mild to medium spice level depending on the salsa verde used. You can adjust spice by selecting a mild or hot salsa or adding extra jalapeños.
- Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?
- Yes, simmer salsa verde and chicken breasts covered on low heat for about 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- What can I serve with Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken?
- This chicken goes well with rice, tortillas, in burrito bowls, or over salad greens.
- Is Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken healthy?
- Yes, it’s a protein-rich, low-carb, and gluten-free dish that fits well into balanced diets.
Call to Action
We’d love to hear how your Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken turns out! Please leave a comment below, rate the recipe, and share it with your friends and family. Don’t forget to save this recipe for your next busy night!
