Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and effortless to prepare? Meet the Slow Cooker Tex Mex Chicken – a tantalizing blend of tender chicken, zesty salsa, and hearty black beans that will have your taste buds dancing! Imagine coming home after a long day to the mouthwatering aroma of this delicious meal, ready to serve in just a few minutes. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself to a delightful dinner, this recipe is your ticket to a satisfying and stress-free culinary experience. Dive into this article to discover how to create this crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare chicken thighs by patting them dry with paper towels and seasoning generously with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder on both sides.
- Place seasoned chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker, creating an even layer.
- Drain and rinse black beans, then sprinkle them evenly over the chicken.
- Add corn kernels across the top of the beans and chicken.
- Pour salsa over the entire mixture, ensuring it covers the ingredients somewhat evenly.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat setting for 6 hours. Do not lift the lid during cooking to maintain consistent temperature.
- After 6 hours, check that chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker, mixing it with beans, corn, and salsa.
- Let the shredded chicken sit in the cooking liquid for an additional 10 minutes to absorb more flavor.
- Serve hot in tortillas, over rice, or as a standalone dish. Optional: garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or avocado slices.
Tips
- Seasoning is Key: Don’t skimp on seasoning the chicken thighs! Generously coat them with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
- Layering Matters: For the best results, layer your ingredients in the slow cooker as directed. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully as they cook.
- Keep the Lid On: Resist the urge to peek inside the slow cooker during cooking. Lifting the lid can release heat and affect the cooking time.
- Shred with Care: Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the slow cooker. This way, the chicken absorbs all the delicious cooking liquid and spices.
- Let It Rest: Allow the shredded chicken to sit in the cooking liquid for an additional 10 minutes after shredding. This step enhances the flavor and juiciness.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the Tex Mex Chicken in warm tortillas, over fluffy rice, or even as a standalone dish. Don’t forget to add garnishes like fresh cilantro, sour cream, or avocado for an extra burst of flavor!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 254kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 21g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 50mg
