Description

Crockpot Salsa Chicken is an easy, comforting, and flavorful slow-cooker recipe featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in zesty salsa and seasoned with garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Perfect for busy weeknights, this hands-off dish is versatile enough for tacos, salads, sandwiches, or served as a main, making dinner hassle-free and delicious for the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups of your favorite salsa (mild, medium, or spicy)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or preferred melty cheese)

Variations (Optional)

1–2 diced jalapeños or ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper for extra heat
1 cup diced bell peppers, corn, or black beans for added veggies
Cream cheese, to stir in for creaminess
Chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Rinse and pat dry the chicken breasts to ensure they are ready to absorb the flavors. Arrange them evenly in the bottom of the crockpot for consistent cooking.
Add the Salsa and Spices: Pour salsa over the chicken, making sure all pieces are well coated. Sprinkle garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken and salsa.
Cover and Cook: Place the lid on the crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the chicken is fork-tender and infused with salsa flavors.
Shred and Mix: Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot to mix with the juices, keeping it moist and flavorful. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top and cover for a few minutes until melted.

Notes

Choose salsa you enjoy eating on its own, as it defines the dish’s flavor.
Don’t skip the garlic powder and cumin; they add essential depth.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safety.
Keep the crockpot lid closed while cooking to maintain even heat.
Shred chicken inside the crockpot for the juiciest texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 to 7 hours (low) or 3 to 4 hours (high)
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 280
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 650mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 1.5g
Protein: 43g
Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: crockpot, slow cooker, salsa chicken, easy dinner, weeknight meal, shredded chicken, gluten free, Mexican chicken, crockpot recipes