If you’re anything like me, weeknight dinners can sometimes feel like a race against the clock. That’s why I’m so excited to share this recipe for Slow Cooker Salsa Verde Chicken! It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for those busy evenings when you want to come home to a warm, comforting meal without a lot of fuss. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a flavorful dish that will have your family begging for seconds. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—use it in tacos, burritos, or serve it over rice. Let’s dive into the magic of this easy recipe!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Slow Cooker Salsa Verde Chicken is a true weeknight hero. Here’s why you’ll want to keep this recipe in your rotation:

– **Hands-Free Cooking:** Simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
– **Flavorful and Juicy:** The salsa verde infuses the chicken with zesty flavor, keeping it tender and juicy.
– **Meal Prep Friendly:** Make a big batch and use it throughout the week for quick lunches or dinners.
– **Family-Friendly:** Even the pickiest eaters will love this dish—it’s that good!
– **Versatile Use:** Whether you’re making tacos, salads, or burrito bowls, this chicken works beautifully in a variety of dishes.

The Ingredient Lineup

For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
16 ounces salsa verde (about 2 cups, green salsa)

These simple ingredients come together to create a meal that’s bursting with flavor!

Gear Checklist

Before you get started, make sure you have the following gear:

Slow Cooker: Any standard slow cooker will work, but a 6-quart model is perfect for this quantity.
Measuring Spoons: For accurate measurement of spices.
Tongs: Great for shredding the chicken after it’s cooked.
Cutting Board: A clean surface for any prep work.
Knife: For slicing through the chicken if needed.

Cook Slow Cooker Salsa Verde Chicken Like This

Ready to get cooking? Follow these easy steps for a delicious Slow Cooker Salsa Verde Chicken:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. No need to thaw them if they’re frozen; they’ll cook beautifully from frozen.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Sprinkle the cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt evenly over the chicken. These spices will elevate the dish and bring out the best flavors.

Step 3: Add the Salsa Verde

Pour the 16 ounces of salsa verde over the chicken, making sure to cover all the pieces. This green salsa is the star of the show, infusing the chicken with its vibrant flavor.

Step 4: Set the Slow Cooker

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. If you’re cooking from frozen, opt for the high setting for the first hour, then reduce to low.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Once the cooking time is up, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and use tongs to shred it. It should fall apart easily! Return the shredded chicken to the salsa in the slow cooker and stir to combine.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Now for the fun part—serving! You can enjoy this Slow Cooker Salsa Verde Chicken in tacos, on a bed of rice, or in burrito bowls. Add your favorite toppings like avocado, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime for extra deliciousness!

Holiday-Friendly Variations

While this recipe is fantastic as it is, consider these variations to spice things up for holidays or gatherings:

Salsa Verde Chicken Enchiladas: Use the shredded chicken to fill corn tortillas, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly.
Nacho Platter: Layer tortilla chips with the chicken, cheese, jalapeños, and your favorite toppings for a festive nacho night.
Chicken Tostadas: Serve the chicken on crispy tostadas with beans, lettuce, and fresh salsa for a crunchy twist.
Stuffed Peppers: Mix the chicken with rice and cheese, and stuff it into bell peppers before baking.

Pro Tips & Notes

For added depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of lime juice or a chopped onion to the slow cooker.
If you prefer a spicier dish, use a spicy salsa verde or add chopped jalapeños.
This recipe is easily doubled if you’re feeding a crowd or want to meal prep for the week.
Don’t forget to save any leftover salsa verde for drizzling over your finished dish!

Shelf Life & Storage

This Slow Cooker Salsa Verde Chicken is great for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more flavor and tenderness to the dish. Just keep the cooking time the same.

What can I serve with Salsa Verde Chicken?

This chicken is incredibly versatile! Serve it in tacos, burritos, or over rice. It also pairs well with salads or as a topping for nachos.

Can I make this without a slow cooker?

Yes! You can cook this in a pressure cooker or on the stovetop. For stovetop cooking, simmer on low heat until the chicken is cooked through, about 30-40 minutes.

How spicy is salsa verde?

The spice level of salsa verde can vary depending on the brand and type you use. If you’re sensitive to spice, look for a mild version.

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Ready to Cook?

Gather your ingredients and gear, and let’s get cooking! This Slow Cooker Salsa Verde Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a culinary adventure waiting to happen. You’re going to love the ease and flavor of this dish. Enjoy every bite!