Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken

Name: Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup salsa; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped cilantro; Sour cream; Lime wedges; Tortilla chips or rice

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken is the perfect dish for busy weeknights. Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work for you!

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2025-12-28T19:34:12.857Z

This salsa chicken is not only incredibly easy to prepare, but it's also packed with flavor. The combination of juicy chicken and zesty salsa makes for a delightful meal that everyone will love.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup
Packed with fresh flavors and spices
Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd

      

A Flavorful One-Pot Meal

Slow cooker recipes are beloved for their convenience, and this Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken is no exception. By allowing the chicken to simmer in a zesty salsa mixture, you achieve a depth of flavor that is both satisfying and comforting. The slow cooking process tenderizes the chicken, making it easy to shred and incorporate with the salsa, resulting in a dish that bursts with taste in every bite.

This recipe is adaptable, allowing you to customize it to suit your tastes. Whether you prefer a mild salsa or a spicy version, the choice is yours. You can even add extra ingredients, like black beans or corn, to elevate the dish further. This versatility makes it an ideal option for family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Meal Prep Made Easy

For those who lead busy lives, meal prep can be a game changer. This Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken is perfect for preparing in advance. Simply cook a large batch, shred the chicken, and store it in the refrigerator for quick meals throughout the week. Pair it with rice, wrap it in tortillas, or enjoy it over a fresh salad—each option is delicious and satisfying.

Additionally, this dish freezes well, making it a fantastic option for those times when you want to have homemade meals ready to go. Just portion out the shredded chicken in freezer-safe containers, and you can have a tasty, home-cooked meal at your fingertips whenever you need it.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup salsa
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

Chopped cilantro
Sour cream
Lime wedges
Tortilla chips or rice

Gather all your ingredients before starting for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Season with cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Add Salsa

Pour the salsa over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Serve

Shred the chicken with two forks and mix it with the salsa. Serve with cilantro, sour cream, and lime wedges.

Enjoy your delicious slow cooker salsa chicken!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving this Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken, the possibilities are endless. You can serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or in warm tortillas for delicious burritos. For a lighter option, consider serving it on a fresh salad topped with avocado and cheese.

To elevate the meal even further, consider garnishing with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and a squeeze of lime. These toppings add brightness and creaminess, enhancing the overall flavor profile and presentation of the dish.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the shredded salsa chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes it easy to reheat and enjoy during your busy week. Simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop, and it will taste just as delicious as it did on the first day.

For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken. It will keep well for up to three months. Just make sure to label your containers with the date so you can keep track of freshness. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it may require additional cooking time.

→ What can I serve with salsa chicken?

It pairs well with rice, tortilla chips, or in tacos.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this in advance?

Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients and store them in the slow cooker insert in the fridge overnight.