Save to Pins Tender, flavorful chicken cooked in salsa, perfect for stuffing tacos, burritos, or serving over rice bowls. This fuss-free dish is ideal for busy weeknights and meal prep.
I first made this salsa chicken for a busy weekday dinner, and it quickly became my go-to for taco night. The chicken turns out juicy every time and everyone can build their own bowl just how they like it.
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Ingredients
- Chicken: 2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Salsa & Seasonings: 2 cups (480 ml) jarred salsa (mild, medium, or hot), 1 packet (1 oz/28 g) taco seasoning OR 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning, 1/2 tsp kosher salt (optional, adjust to taste), 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Optional Add-Ins: 1 cup (170 g) canned black beans, drained and rinsed ; 1 cup (165 g) corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned) ; 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (for serving) ; Juice of 1 lime (for serving)
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Instructions
- Prep chicken:
- Place the chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Season:
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning, salt, and pepper over the chicken.
- Add salsa and extras:
- Pour the salsa evenly over the top. Add black beans and corn, if using.
- Cook:
- Cover and cook on High for 4 hours or Low for 6 to 8 hours, until the chicken is tender and shreds easily.
- Shred chicken:
- Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with sauce.
- Serve:
- Serve hot in tacos, burritos, or bowls. Garnish with cilantro and a squeeze of lime if desired.
Save to Pins This dish is a favorite in our family for taco nights, and it always disappears fast at potlucks. Kids love customizing their own chicken bowls with toppings.
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Required Tools
You'll need a slow cooker, measuring cups and spoons, forks for shredding, and a knife and cutting board for prepping ingredients.
Allergen Information
There are no allergens in the base recipe. If using packaged taco seasoning or salsa, review ingredients for gluten, dairy, or other concerns. Optional toppings such as cheese or sour cream will add dairy.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides about 210 calories, 4 g total fat, 10 g carbohydrates, and 33 g protein, making this a high-protein, satisfying main course.
Save to Pins 
This salsa chicken makes dinner fast and flavorful, and clean-up is always easy. I love making extra to freeze for busy nights.
Questions & Answers
- → What cut of chicken works best?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work well; thighs offer more juiciness and tenderness.
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, black beans and corn are excellent additions that complement the salsa and spices for added texture and flavor.
- → How long should I cook the chicken?
Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6 to 8 hours until the chicken easily shreds with a fork.
- → What are good serving suggestions?
Serve shredded chicken in tacos, burritos, or over rice bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for brightness.
- → Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes, choose hot salsa or add chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to introduce a smoky, spicy kick.
