Slow Cooker Salsa Verde Chicken

Slow Cooker Salsa Verde Chicken is a simple, hands-off dish that’s full of flavor and perfect for busy days. With juicy, tender chicken simmered in a zesty salsa verde sauce, this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare and cooks itself while you go about your day. The combination of cumin, oregano, garlic, and lime juice infuses the chicken with vibrant, delicious flavors, making it perfect for tacos, burritos, or served over rice. It’s versatile, hearty, and guaranteed to be a hit at your table!

Ingredients

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 small white onion (diced)
1 (16 oz) jar salsa verde
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
Juice of 2-3 limes (about ¼ cup)
½ cup cilantro (chopped)
Flour tortillas (for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Add to Slow Cooker:

1. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.

2. Add the diced onion, salsa verde, minced garlic, cumin, oregano, and lime juice on top of the chicken.

Cook:

1. Cover and cook on high for 2-3 hours or on low for 5-6 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds.

Shred and Combine:

1. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.

2. Stir in the chopped cilantro and mix well. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Serve:

1. Serve the shredded chicken in flour tortillas, over rice, or with your favorite toppings like avocado, cheese, sour cream, or extra salsa.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 8 people.

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 6 hours

• Total time: 6 hours 10 minutes

Variations

1. Spicy Kick: Add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the slow cooker for an extra kick.

2. Low-Carb Option: Serve the chicken over cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps instead of tortillas for a low-carb alternative.

3. Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for tofu or a hearty vegetable like sweet potato for a vegetarian version.

4. Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or corn to the slow cooker for more veggies in the dish.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze the shredded chicken for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of water or broth to keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great in this recipe and will be even juicier. Just adjust the cooking time if needed.

Can I make this recipe in the Instant Pot?

Yes, you can cook the chicken on high pressure for about 12 minutes in the Instant Pot and shred it once done. The flavor will be just as good!

Can I use homemade salsa verde?

Absolutely! Homemade salsa verde will work perfectly in this recipe and add an extra level of flavor.

How do I make the chicken spicier?

To increase the spice level, add more lime juice, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or use a spicy salsa verde.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. You can prepare the ingredients the night before and cook them the next day, or store the leftovers for future meals.

Can I use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup?

Yes, using a slow cooker liner will make cleanup a breeze!

What can I serve with this dish?

Serve this chicken with rice, in tacos, burritos, or even on a salad for a versatile and tasty meal.

Can I use a different type of salsa?

Yes, you can use any type of salsa you like—green or red salsa works well, but salsa verde gives it a distinct flavor.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Salsa Verde Chicken is the ultimate easy, flavorful meal that requires minimal prep time and delivers big on taste. Whether you’re making tacos, burritos, or just serving it over rice, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week. With its tender, juicy chicken and zesty salsa verde sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love!

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