Description
This easy Crockpot Salsa Chicken recipe is the perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal for busy days. Tender chicken breasts or tenders are slow-cooked with savory taco seasoning and flavorful salsa until juicy and shreddable. A fresh squeeze of lime juice brightens the dish, making it perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, salads, or simply served over rice. With minimal prep and hearty, comforting flavors, this recipe is a family favorite for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 pounds chicken tenders or breasts
Seasoning
- 1 ounce taco seasoning packet
- 2 cups salsa
Finishing
- 1 lime, juiced
Instructions
- Add Chicken: Place the 2 pounds of chicken tenders or breasts into the crockpot, spreading them out evenly.
- Season Chicken: Sprinkle the 1 ounce taco seasoning packet evenly over the chicken to coat all pieces.
- Add Salsa: Pour 2 cups of salsa over the seasoned chicken, covering it thoroughly.
- Cook: For chicken tenders, cook on high for 2 hours or low for 4-6 hours. For chicken breasts, cook on high for 4 hours or low for 7-8 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender.
- Shred Chicken: Use two forks, clean hands, or a hand mixer to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot, mixing with the juices and salsa.
- Add Lime Juice: Squeeze the juice of 1 fresh lime over the shredded chicken and stir to combine.
- Serve: Serve the salsa chicken warm as a filling for tacos, burritos, salads, or bowls. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
- You can use either chicken tenders or breasts; adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure tenderness.
- For an extra kick, add some chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the salsa before cooking.
- Use low-sodium taco seasoning and salsa to reduce sodium content if desired.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- This dish freezes well—cool completely before freezing in portions for future quick meals.
