Are you craving a flavorful and satisfying dinner that doesn't require hours in the kitchen? Then look no further! This Crockpot Southwest Chicken recipe is your answer. It's a healthy, quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, and it's so easy, even beginner cooks will master it. Get ready to enjoy tender, juicy chicken infused with the vibrant flavors of the Southwest! This homemade cooking masterpiece is one of the best recipes you'll find for effortless deliciousness.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended): For extra flavor, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned. This step isn't strictly necessary, but it adds a delicious depth of flavor.
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Layer the Crockpot: Place the seared (or unseared) chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell peppers on top.
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Add the Remaining Ingredients: Pour the undrained diced tomatoes and green chilies, black beans, and corn over the vegetables. Sprinkle the taco seasoning, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper evenly over everything.
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Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
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Shred and Serve: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve.
Serving Suggestions:
This Southwest chicken is incredibly versatile! Serve it in a variety of ways:
- Tacos: Fill warm tortillas with the chicken and your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, lettuce, sour cream, and salsa.
- Burrito Bowls: Serve the chicken over rice or quinoa with your favorite burrito bowl toppings.
- Salads: Add the chicken to a salad for a protein-packed meal.
- Quesadillas: Layer the chicken with cheese in a tortilla and grill until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Add some veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a creamier sauce.
- Use different beans: Kidney beans or pinto beans would also be delicious in this recipe.
- Slow Cooker Size: Adjust cooking time depending on your slow cooker's size and settings.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This Crockpot Southwest Chicken recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. Its simple preparation and incredible flavor make it a true crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!