Description
This Easy Mexican Chicken Crock Pot Recipe is a flavorful and effortless dish perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts slow-cooked with salsa, black beans, corn, and a blend of spices create a delicious Mexican-inspired meal that’s ready in just a few hours. Serve it garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a bright, zesty finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 (16 oz) jar of salsa
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles (optional)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade)
- 1 teaspoon cumin (optional, for extra depth)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crock Pot: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of the crock pot, ensuring they form an even layer for thorough cooking.
- Add Flavorful Ingredients: Top the chicken with the jar of salsa, drained black beans, drained corn, diced green chiles if using, taco seasoning, and cumin if desired. Gently stir to combine these ingredients around the chicken without displacing the meat too much.
- Slow Cook the Chicken: Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 6 to 7 hours, or on high heat for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should become fully cooked and tender, absorbing the rich flavors from the spices and salsa.
- Shred the Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken from the crock pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back into the crock pot and mix well with the sauce and vegetables.
- Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste the mixture, and adjust the seasoning by adding salt and pepper as needed. Serve the crock pot chicken hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro and lime wedges for an added zest.
Notes
- You can use either chicken breasts or thighs according to your preference; thighs may be more tender and flavorful.
- The diced green chiles are optional but add a nice subtle heat to the dish.
- Adjust seasoning and spice levels to taste before serving.
- Serve with rice, tortillas, or your favorite Mexican side dishes to complete the meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
