Save Tender, flavorful chicken cooked in salsa, perfect for stuffing tacos, burritos, or serving over rice bowls. This fuss-free dish is ideal for busy weeknights and meal prep.
I first made this salsa chicken during a hectic work week, and it quickly became my go-to meal for effortless family dinners. The flavors always impress with minimal effort & cleanup.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Salsa & Seasonings: 2 cups (480 ml) jarred salsa (mild, medium, or hot), 1 packet (1 oz/28 g) taco seasoning OR 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning, 1/2 tsp kosher salt (optional, adjust to taste), 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Optional Add-Ins: 1 cup (170 g) canned black beans, drained and rinsed, 1 cup (165 g) corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned), 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (for serving), Juice of 1 lime (for serving)
Instructions
- Add Chicken:
- Place the chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Season:
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning, salt, and pepper over the chicken.
- Add Salsa:
- Pour the salsa evenly over the top. Add black beans and corn, if using.
- Cook:
- Cover and cook on High for 4 hours or Low for 6–8 hours, until the chicken is tender and shreds easily.
- Shred:
- Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with sauce.
- Serve:
- Serve hot in tacos, burritos, or bowls. Garnish with cilantro and a squeeze of lime if desired.
Save My kids love building their own bowls and tacos with this salsa chicken & it brings everyone to the table for a fun dinner together.
Required Tools
Slow cooker, measuring cups and spoons, forks for shredding, knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
No allergens in the base recipe. If using store-bought taco seasoning or salsa, check for gluten, dairy, or other allergens. Optional toppings like cheese or sour cream contain dairy.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 210, Total Fat: 4 g, Carbohydrates: 10 g, Protein: 33 g
Save This slow cooker salsa chicken is a meal-prep hero & perfect for feeding a crowd with little fuss and big flavor.
Cooking Questions & Answers
- → What cut of chicken works best?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work well; thighs offer extra juiciness.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, choose mild, medium, or hot salsa and adjust taco seasoning to control heat.
- → Is it possible to add vegetables?
Optional black beans and corn add texture and flavor; feel free to include them or omit.
- → How do I shred the chicken evenly?
After cooking, use two forks to pull the chicken apart into tender, even strands.
- → What are good serving suggestions?
Serve the shredded chicken in tacos, burritos, or over rice bowls, garnished with cilantro and lime.
- → Can leftovers be stored safely?
Store leftovers in the refrigerator up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.