Craving a delicious and healthy meal that requires minimal effort? Look no further! This spicy chicken breast crock pot recipe is your answer. Imagine tender, juicy chicken bursting with flavor, ready to be enjoyed after a long day. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a fantastic quick dinner idea that's both satisfying and easy on the cleanup. Prepare to elevate your homemade cooking game with this simple yet impressive dish!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup salsa (your favorite kind!)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely and ensures even cooking.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This creates a flavorful spice rub that will coat the chicken beautifully.
Slow Cooking Magic:
- Place the chicken breasts in your slow cooker.
- Pour the spice mixture over the chicken, ensuring each breast is evenly coated.
- Pour the chicken broth and salsa over the chicken. The liquid helps keep the chicken moist and adds extra flavor.
- 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).
Serving Suggestions:
- Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks. You can leave it in the slow cooker to stay warm.
- Serve the spicy chicken in tacos, burritos, bowls, or on top of rice and your favorite sides. A simple green salad or some roasted vegetables complement this dish perfectly.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the spice level. For a milder dish, omit it entirely or use a small pinch. For extra heat, add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- Flavor Boost: Add a diced onion or bell pepper to the slow cooker for extra flavor and texture.
- Citrus Zing: A squeeze of lime juice at the end brightens up the flavors beautifully.
- Make it a Meal Prep Winner: 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):
This information is based on a 4-serving recipe and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This spicy chicken breast crock pot recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a testament to the power of simple ingredients and slow cooking techniques, creating a delicious dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Enjoy this flavorful and convenient meal that's sure to become a family favorite!