This Easy Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken is a tasty and simple dish that cooks itself! Just toss chicken breasts with salsa verde and let the slow cooker do the work.
The chicken turns out super tender and flavorful—perfect for tacos or rice bowls. I love making a batch and enjoying leftovers all week long. Who doesn’t love easy meals? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here. If you’re looking for a juicier option, thighs can be a tasty substitute. They may take a bit longer to cook but add great flavor and moisture.
Salsa Verde: A jar of salsa verde is perfect, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own! Just blend tomatillos, jalapeños, cilantro, lime juice, and garlic. You can also try green enchilada sauce in a pinch.
Spices: Cumin gives a lovely depth; feel free to adjust or add other spices like chili powder or smoked paprika for more heat or smokiness. Don’t have garlic and onion powder? Fresh minced garlic and chopped onion work too!
Garnishes: Fresh cilantro and lime are optional but add brightness to the dish. If you’re not a cilantro fan, try chopped green onions or a dollop of sour cream instead.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Tender and Flavorful?
The secret to juicy chicken is cooking it low and slow. This method allows the chicken to soak in all the salsa verde flavor. Ensure you don’t overcook it; the ideal internal temperature is 165°F (75°C).
- Set your crockpot to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Check toward the end of the cooking time. If it’s flaky and easy to shred, it’s done!
- Shred the chicken right in the pot to keep it moist in the sauce.
Feel free to adjust the cooking time based on how thick your chicken breasts are. Happy cooking!
Easy Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 to 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 to 2 pounds)
- 1 16-ounce jar of salsa verde
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional garnishes: fresh cilantro, lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing this delicious dish is super quick! You’ll spend about 10 minutes getting everything ready. Then, set your crockpot to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. It’s the perfect way to have a yummy meal waiting for you when you get home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and lay them in the bottom of your crockpot or slow cooker. Don’t worry if they overlap—everything will cook down nicely!
2. Add the Salsa Verde:
Pour the entire jar of salsa verde evenly over the chicken. This zesty sauce will infuse the chicken with flavor as it cooks.
3. Season It Up:
Sprinkle the ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over the chicken and salsa. This will add even more deliciousness to your dish!
4. Let It Cook:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook. If you have the time, cooking it on low for 6-7 hours will yield super tender chicken. If you’re in a hurry, set it to high for 3-4 hours. Either way, your kitchen will smell amazing!
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the cooking time is up, check that the chicken is cooked through and tender. Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot, stirring it into the salsa verde juices. This keeps it moist and flavorful!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to eat! Serve your delicious shredded chicken with tortillas, rice, or on top of a salad. Don’t forget to add some fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for that extra zing!
This recipe is a flavorful, hands-off way to prepare tender chicken infused with the zesty tang of salsa verde. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but for best results, it’s recommended to thaw it first. To thaw quickly, place the chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 30 minutes. This helps ensure even cooking.
How Can I Customize the Spice Level?
If you like it spicy, consider adding chopped jalapeños or diced green chiles to the crockpot along with the salsa verde. Alternatively, you can mix in some cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the seasoning mix for an extra kick!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave, or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of salsa verde if it seems dry.
What Are Some Serving Suggestions?
This salsa verde chicken is incredibly versatile! Serve it in tacos, burritos, or enchiladas. You can also top it over rice or quinoa for a hearty meal, or enjoy it as a salad topper with fresh greens.
