Craving a delicious and easy weeknight meal? This Slow Cooker Salsa Verde Chicken is a healthy chicken recipe that practically makes itself. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare, resulting in tender, flavorful chicken perfect for tacos, bowls, or salads.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for this healthy chicken recipe.
- Salsa Verde: Use your favorite brand, mild or medium.
- Aromatics: Onion and garlic provide a foundational flavor.
- Spices: Cumin and chili powder add warmth and depth.
- Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and flavor.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 16 oz jar salsa verde
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes (on high) or 6 hours 15 minutes (on low)
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-6 hours
- Servings: 4-6
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 (depending on chicken cut and portion size)
- Tools Needed: Slow cooker
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Slow Cooker
Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier for your healthy chicken recipe.
2. Layer the Ingredients
Place the chopped onion and minced garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker. Arrange the chicken breasts or thighs over the onion and garlic.
3. Add Liquids and Spices
Pour the salsa verde and chicken broth over the chicken. Sprinkle with ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Cook Until Tender
Cover and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours, or until the chicken is easily shredded with a fork. Cooking on LOW generally results in more tender chicken.
5. Shred the Chicken
Remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it into the sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve your delicious Slow Cooker Salsa Verde Chicken warm with your favorite toppings or sides.
Variation Ideas
- Add Beans: Stir in a can of drained and rinsed black beans or pinto beans during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Spice It Up: Include a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a few spoonfuls of plain Greek yogurt or light sour cream after shredding the chicken for a creamier sauce.
- Veggies: Add diced bell peppers or corn along with the onion for more nutrients in this healthy chicken recipe.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Slow Cooker Salsa Verde Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until heated through. This healthy chicken recipe also freezes well for up to 2-3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you may need to increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours.
- What should I serve with this chicken? It’s excellent in tacos, burritos, quesadillas, over rice, with roasted vegetables, or as a salad topping for a healthy chicken recipe.
- Is this recipe spicy? The spice level depends on the salsa verde you choose. Use a mild salsa for less heat or a medium/hot salsa for more kick.
- Can I make this on the stovetop? While designed for a slow cooker, you could simmer it in a large pot on the stovetop over low heat for 30-40 minutes after shredding.
- What kind of chicken is best for shredding? Both boneless, skinless chicken breasts and thighs work well. Thighs tend to be more moist and flavorful.
- How do I make this a complete healthy chicken recipe meal? Serve it in lettuce cups with avocado and a squeeze of lime, or with brown rice and steamed broccoli.