Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen after a long day? Craving a healthy and delicious meal that doesn't require endless chopping and stirring? Then look no further! This slow cooker salsa chicken recipe from Kyle and Mistie Knight is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's incredibly easy, bursting with flavor, and adaptable to suit your taste. This recipe is a staple in our home, and we're thrilled to share it with you. Get ready to experience the magic of effortless homemade cooking!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (15-ounce) jar of your favorite salsa (we love a chunky, medium-heat salsa!)
- 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin (optional, for deeper flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prep the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in your slow cooker. No need to sear or pre-cook them – the slow cooker does all the work!
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Add the Flavor: Pour the salsa over the chicken breasts. Sprinkle the taco seasoning, chili powder (if using), and cumin (if using) evenly over the chicken and salsa. Season generously with salt and pepper.
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Cook it Low and Slow: 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. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
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Shred and Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. Mix the shredded chicken into the salsa. You can leave some of the salsa chunky or use an immersion blender to create a smoother sauce, depending on your preference.
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Get Creative!: Serve this delicious salsa chicken in tacos, burritos, bowls, salads, or as a topping for nachos! The possibilities are endless.
Tips and Variations:
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Spice it up: For extra heat, add a few slices of jalapeño pepper to the slow cooker with the chicken and salsa.
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Citrus Burst: Add the juice of one lime for a zesty twist.
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Make it Creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving for a creamy, tangy sauce.
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Add Veggies: Throw in some chopped onions, bell peppers, or corn during the last hour of cooking for added vegetables and flavor.
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Meal Prep Magic: This recipe is fantastic for meal prepping. Cook a large batch on the weekend and enjoy delicious and easy meals throughout the week.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This slow cooker salsa chicken recipe is a true testament to the beauty of simple, healthy, and delicious homemade cooking. It's a quick dinner idea that's perfect for busy weeknights, and a crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do! Let us know in the comments how you enjoyed your meal!