Get ready to transform your ordinary weeknight dinner into a mouthwatering Mexican-inspired sensation that's so easy, you'll feel like a culinary genius! This Crock Pot Salsa Verde Chicken is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it meal that promises maximum flavor with minimal effort. Imagine tender, perfectly seasoned chicken that practically melts in your mouth, swimming in zesty salsa verde and packed with hearty black beans and sweet corn. Whether you're a busy professional, a meal prep enthusiast, or simply craving a delicious dinner that practically cooks itself, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken breasts
- 1 jar salsa verde
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 cup corn
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by patting chicken breasts dry with paper towels and ensuring they are trimmed of any excess fat.
- Place whole chicken breasts into the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer without overlapping.
- Sprinkle entire packet of taco seasoning evenly over the surface of the chicken breasts to ensure complete coverage.
- Pour entire jar of salsa verde directly over the chicken, making sure to cover each piece thoroughly.
- Add drained black beans and corn kernels around and between the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Cover slow cooker with lid and set to LOW heat setting for 6 hours, or HIGH heat setting for 3-4 hours.
- After cooking time is complete, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker, allowing it to mix with the salsa verde sauce.
- Let shredded chicken sit in the sauce for an additional 10-15 minutes to absorb more flavor before serving.
- Serve hot in tortillas, over rice, or as a standalone protein with optional garnishes like cilantro, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for fresh, uniform-sized chicken breasts to ensure even cooking.
- Pat Dry for Perfect Seasoning: Always pat chicken breasts dry before adding seasonings to help them stick better.
- Layer Strategically: Arrange chicken in a single layer and distribute beans and corn evenly for consistent flavor.
- Don't Overcook: While slow cookers are forgiving, stick to recommended cooking times to prevent dry chicken.
- Shred While Warm: Shred chicken immediately after cooking when it's most tender and easy to pull apart.
- Flavor Boosting: For extra depth, consider adding a splash of lime juice or a handful of fresh cilantro before serving.
- Versatile Serving: This recipe is incredibly flexible - serve in tacos, over rice, in salads, or as a protein-packed meal prep option.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 258kcal
Carbohydrates: 19g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 80mg
