This is a really easy slow cooker salsa chicken recipe that makes a versatile meal. It tastes very similar to the chicken used in Mexican restaurants in them chicken taco salad. My kids eat it plain, but I love it in a big salad with avocado and sour cream!
Chicken Salsa in the Pot has the flavors of a fajita and tastes great in salads, quesadillas or on top of burrito bowls. This easy recipe is naturally gluten-free and makes for an easy weeknight dinner. We will eat it often even for a quick lunch.
This recipe freezes and reheats extremely well for easy meal prep. It's a great filling lunch or can be doubled up for a quick meal later. I like to pack it as a jar salad by placing some in the bottom of a quart jar. Top with sour cream, salsa, cheddar cheese, avocado and finally, lettuce. Toss it upside down for a 2 second salad on the go.
Salsa Chicken Ingredients
This chicken dinner is really easy and includes some shredded chicken, seasonings, and a jar of salsa. I have listed all the spices in the recipe, but you can use up to 3 tbsp homemade taco seasoning stir instead for faster preparation. Our family uses chicken breasts, since that's what I usually have on hand, but skinless chicken thighs also work and add more flavor.
For an Instant Pot version use the recipe below, but add 1 cup of chicken stock during cooking. For frozen chicken, cook for 15 minutes and make a natural pressure release. If using thawed chicken, reduce the cooking time to 10 minutes with a natural pressure release.
What to eat with salsa chicken
You can eat salsa chicken as is with a side of vegetables (or salad) or use it as a protein in other dishes. Here are some ideas:
This recipe is simple but certainly not boring! Here are some ideas for what to mix in or top with your salsa chicken.
- black beans or pinto beans
- cilantro
- diced jalapenos
- mix in some cream cheese
- top with guacamole
- add a squeeze of lime juice
There are so many different ways to serve this chicken that I don't tire of it easily. To save time, I'll sometimes make a big batch on the weekend. I can then reheat it and use it in different dishes throughout the week. Like enchiladas for dinner on Monday, then chicken salad with salsa on Wednesday. Mix and match toppings for more variety!
Crock Pot Salsa Chicken Recipe
This easy chicken recipe is easy to make and really versatile. Enjoy it plain, on top of a salad, or as a protein for other dishes.
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Place boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs) in a slow cooker and sprinkle with all the spices.
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Pour salsa over chicken.
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Cook on low for 7-8 hours until tender.
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Prick the cooked chicken with a fork before serving.
Nutrition facts
Crock Pot Salsa Chicken Recipe
Amount per serving (1 cup)
Calories 196
Calories from fat 36
% Daily Value*
Fat 4 g6%
Saturated fat 1 g6%
Trans fat 0.02 g
Unsaturated fat 1 g
Monounsaturated fat 1 g
cholesterol 96 mg32%
Sodium 1247 mg54%
potassium 722 mg21%
Carbohydrates 5 g2%
Fiber 1 g4%
Sugar 2 g2%
Protein 33 g66%
Vitamin A 463 IU9%
Vitamin C 3 mg4%
Calcium 35 mg4%
Iron 1 mg6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
- Serve slightly chilled chicken over salad with desired toppings such as avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese and extra salsa.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
What are your favorite salsa chicken toppings? Leave a comment and let me know!
