This Easy Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken is a winner for busy days! Just toss chicken with zesty salsa verde and let the slow cooker do its magic. Juicy, flavorful chicken awaits!
Your family will love this dish, and you won’t even break a sweat! Serve it on tacos, rice, or with chips. Trust me, it’s a new weeknight favorite! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great here for a lean option. You can also use thighs for more flavor and tenderness, or even frozen chicken if you’re short on fresh.
Salsa Verde: A jar of salsa verde is essential for that tangy flavor. If you can’t find it, you could use green enchilada sauce or make a quick homemade version with tomatillos, jalapenos, and lime juice.
Taco Seasoning: The packet gives lots of flavor, but feel free to mix your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika if you prefer. It’s a great way to control spices and avoid additives.
Onions and Garlic: Both add depth to the dish. If you’re not a fan, you can skip them, or even use onion powder and garlic powder to keep it simple.
How Do You Get Tender Shredded Chicken?
The key to perfectly shredded chicken is cooking it low and slow. Here’s how to nail it:
- Place the chicken in the crockpot, so it lays flat; this helps even cooking.
- Cooking on low for 6-7 hours is best. If you turn it up to high, ensure it cooks for at least 3-4 hours.
- When it’s done, shred it straight in the pot. The juices will keep it moist and flavorful!
Don’t rush this step! Letting it cook long enough is what makes the chicken tender and easy to shred.
Easy Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (16 oz) jar salsa verde (green tomatillo salsa)
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
For this Easy Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken, you’ll need about 10 minutes for prep, and then you can let it cook slowly. Plan for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly!
2. Season the Chicken:
Sprinkle the taco seasoning mix evenly over each chicken breast. This will give your chicken that delicious taco flavor.
3. Add Aromatics:
Next, if you’re using onion, add the chopped onion and minced garlic on top of the chicken. These will add great flavor to the dish as it cooks.
4. Pour on the Salsa Verde:
Now, pour the entire jar of salsa verde over the chicken. Make sure the chicken is well coated with the salsa; this keeps it moist and flavorful while cooking!
5. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You want the chicken to be tender and cooked through.
6. Shred the Chicken:
Once it’s cooked, take two forks and shred the chicken right in the crockpot. Mix it into the salsa verde sauce for extra flavor and moisture.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Give it a taste! Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking if needed.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
To finish, serve the salsa verde chicken topped with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. It’s perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, or simply served over rice and beans. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just add an extra hour to the cooking time on low (up to 8 hours) or 1-2 hours on high to ensure they’re fully cooked. The salsa verde will keep it moist and flavorful.
What Can I Substitute for Salsa Verde?
If you don’t have salsa verde, you can use green enchilada sauce or even homemade salsa made from tomatillos, jalapeños, and lime juice. The flavor might differ slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salsa verde chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little extra salsa or broth to keep it moist while reheating.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! To add some heat, try mixing in diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce with the salsa verde. You can also top your dish with sliced fresh jalapeños when serving for an extra kick!
