Name: Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 360 min
Total time: 365 min
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh or frozen corn; 15 ounce reduced sodium black beans, rinsed and drained; 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts halved lengthwise 16 oz; 1/2 teaspoon adobo seasoning (or salt to taste); 3/4 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 1/4 cups chunky mild salsa; 1 cup shredded cheddar, reduced fat Sargento; chopped cilantro for garnish; optional, serve with avocado and brown rice

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The aroma that fills your kitchen while making Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken is simply divine. It’s one of those comforting meals that takes me back to cozy evenings spent with family. I remember the first time I made this dish; I had friends over for a casual dinner, and I wanted to impress them without being stuck in the kitchen all day. With just a handful of ingredients and my trusty slow cooker, magic happened. I set the ingredients in the morning, and by the time my friends arrived, the house smelled amazing! As we gathered around the table, that first bite was greeted with awe, and I knew I had struck gold. This recipe has since become a go-to for busy weeknights and gatherings alike, where everyone leaves satisfied and raving.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
6 hr 5 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
360 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
380 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Slow Cooker, Chef’s Knife

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What’s Great About This Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken

1. Effortless Preparation

One of the best parts about Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken is how easy it is to prepare. There’s no need for complicated techniques or multiple pots and pans. You simply toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you. It’s perfect for those days when you have a million things to do!

2. Flavorful Ingredients

This dish features a delightful combination of chicken, black beans, and corn, all simmered together in a zesty salsa. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that’s bursting with taste. The adobo seasoning and cumin add an extra depth that you won’t want to miss.

3. Versatile Serving Options

Whether you want to serve it over rice, in tacos, or alongside a fresh salad, Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken adapts to your cravings. It’s also great for meal prep; make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week!

4. Healthy Comfort Food

With lean chicken and lots of veggies, this dish is a healthier option compared to many traditional comfort foods. Plus, it’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a well-rounded meal.

5. Perfect for Gatherings

Planning a get-together? This recipe is a crowd-pleaser! Set up a taco bar with all the fixings, and let everyone customize their plates. It’s an interactive and fun way to enjoy Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken.

Key Ingredients for Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken

Every great recipe starts with quality ingredients. For Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken, we combine fresh and vibrant flavors that complement each other perfectly. The key players here include chicken, which serves as the protein powerhouse, black beans for added texture and fiber, and corn which brings sweetness and color to the dish. These ingredients work together to create a hearty meal that’s not only satisfying but also nutritious.

2 cups fresh or frozen corn: Sweet and vibrant, corn adds a pop of color and sweetness.
15 ounce can reduced sodium black beans, rinsed and drained: These beans provide protein and fiber, making the dish more filling.
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts halved lengthwise, 16 oz: The star of the show, this chicken becomes tender and flavorful as it cooks.
1/2 teaspoon adobo seasoning, or salt to taste: This seasoning brings a smoky flavor to the dish.
3/4 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds warmth and earthiness to the overall flavor profile.
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Offers a subtle garlic flavor that enhances the dish.
1 1/4 cups chunky mild salsa: The base of the sauce, providing tanginess and moisture.
1 cup shredded cheddar, reduced fat Sargento: For a cheesy finish that melts beautifully.
Chopped cilantro for garnish: Freshness that brightens up the meal.
Optional: Serve with avocado and brown rice: These toppings add creaminess and more nutrition.

Cooking Method for Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken

Cooking is a joy, especially when you can rely on your slow cooker to do the heavy lifting. For Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken, the method is straightforward yet allows for rich flavors to develop over time. Follow these detailed steps to make sure everything turns out perfectly.

Begin by combining corn and black beans in the slow cooker. This combination forms a delicious base that complements the chicken. Ensure they are evenly distributed at the bottom.
Season the chicken with adobo seasoning (or salt), garlic powder, and ground cumin. This step is crucial, as it infuses the meat with flavor. Gently rub the seasonings into the chicken to ensure an even coating.
Place the seasoned chicken on top of the corn and black beans in the slow cooker. This way, as the chicken cooks, it will drip its juices into the underlying ingredients, enhancing their taste.
Next, pour the salsa over everything. Make sure to cover the chicken thoroughly, which will help keep it moist while cooking.
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on LOW for about 6 hours. During this time, the flavors will meld beautifully, and the chicken will become tender and juicy.
About 5 minutes before serving, top the dish with shredded cheddar. Cover the slow cooker again to allow the cheese to melt into a gooey, delicious topping.
Once done, garnish with chopped cilantro. This adds a fresh element that brightens up the dish.
To serve, use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken and vegetable mixture onto plates. This ensures you don’t overload your serving with too much liquid.
Finally, enjoy your meal over a bed of rice (or cauliflower rice) for a complete dish. This will soak up all the delicious juices!

Things Worth Knowing

Slow cookers work best when they are at least half full, so avoid overloading it.
If you’re in a hurry, you can cook this on HIGH for about 3 to 4 hours instead of on LOW.
Feel free to customize this by adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Making Adjustments

Making adjustments to a recipe can be a fun way to personalize it. Here, we’ll explore different ways to tweak Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken to suit your tastes.

Storage: After cooling, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
Freezing: This dish freezes well. Portion it into containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
Pairing: Serve with tortilla chips for a fun appetizer or alongside a fresh salad for a light meal.
Spice Level: If you like it spicy, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the slow cooker.
Ingredient Variations: Try swapping out the black beans for pinto beans or add chopped bell peppers for more texture.

Best Served With

Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some great ideas:

Brown Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the flavors superbly.
Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, try serving it over cauliflower rice for a healthy twist.
Taco Bar: Set up a taco bar with toppings like chopped avocado, cheese, and fresh cilantro for an interactive meal.
Salad: A crisp green salad balances the rich flavors of the dish nicely.
Seasonal Sides: During the fall, consider serving with roasted vegetables or a pumpkin salad.
Leftovers: Reheat and serve on top of a baked potato or as a filling for burritos.

FAQ

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts for Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken. Just be sure to increase the cooking time slightly. Frozen chicken may take about 1 to 2 hours longer to reach the safe cooking temperature, so adjust your timing accordingly. It’s essential to check that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s fully cooked.

You can serve Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken with a variety of sides. It pairs wonderfully with brown rice, cauliflower rice, or inside tortillas as a taco filling. Add toppings like avocado, sour cream, and fresh cilantro for extra flavor. Salad or roasted vegetables are great accompaniments too, making for a balanced meal.

Absolutely! If you prefer a kick of heat, you can add diced jalapeños, chipotle peppers in adobo, or even cayenne pepper to your Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken. Adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy extra spice.

Leftovers from Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. To keep it fresh, ensure it’s cooled down before sealing. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label the container with the date for reference.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken offers a fantastic blend of flavors and convenience, making it a must-try for any dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, it’s a dish that brings everyone together. I encourage you to give it a go; you just might find it becoming a staple in your own home. Happy cooking!