Slow Cooker Salsa Verde Chicken
A flavorful and easy slow cooker recipe featuring tender chicken simmered in tangy salsa verde, perfect for busy families and versatile meals.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes to 6 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 ½ cups salsa verde (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- Optional: 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced
- Optional: ¼ cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients (10 minutes): Finely chop the onion, mince the garlic, and if using, deseed and mince the jalapeño. Chop the fresh cilantro and set aside.
- Season the Chicken (5 minutes): Pat dry the chicken thighs or breasts. Season both sides with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder.
- Assemble in Slow Cooker (5 minutes): Place the seasoned chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker. Scatter the chopped onion, garlic, and jalapeño over the chicken. Pour salsa verde over everything. Optionally add chicken broth.
- Cook Low and Slow (4-6 hours): Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours until chicken is tender and shreddable. Alternatively, cook on high for 2-3 hours but watch closely to avoid drying out.
- Shred and Finish (5 minutes): Remove chicken and shred with forks. Return shredded chicken to slow cooker and stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice. Mix well and serve.
Notes
If salsa verde is thick, add a splash of water or broth during cooking to keep moist. Avoid lifting the lid too often to maintain heat. Use chicken thighs for juicier results. Can be cooked on stovetop by simmering for 45 minutes if no slow cooker is available.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 265
- Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 1.5
- Protein: 35
Keywords: slow cooker, salsa verde, chicken, easy recipe, Mexican, crockpot, healthy, meal prep