Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken

This Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken is the ultimate fuss-free meal that’s bursting with zesty flavor. Tender shredded chicken is slow-cooked in tangy salsa verde, spices, and aromatics—perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, or over rice. It’s a simple, set-it-and-forget-it recipe that turns into a weeknight favorite.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Super Simple – Minimal prep and the crockpot does all the work.
Full of Flavor – Bright, bold salsa verde gives the chicken irresistible flavor.
Versatile – Use it in tacos, wraps, salads, or rice bowls.
Family-Friendly – Mild heat that’s easy to adjust for everyone.
Great for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and enjoy all week long.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients:
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
2 cups salsa verde (store-bought or homemade)
1 small onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp chili powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Juice of 1 lime

Optional Add-ins:
1 small jalapeño, diced (for extra heat)
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (stirred in before serving)

For Serving:
Warm tortillas (corn or flour)
Steamed rice or quinoa
Sliced avocado
Shredded cheese
Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
Chopped red onion or green onion
Fresh cilantro and lime wedges

Tools You’ll Need
Slow cooker or crockpot
Tongs or fork (for shredding)
Cutting board and knife
Citrus juicer (optional)
Measuring spoons and cups

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken & Ingredients
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot.
Top with salsa verde, diced onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Squeeze in the fresh lime juice.

Step 2: Cook on Low and Let It Work
Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
The chicken should be tender and easy to shred.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Once fully cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks.
Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat with the flavorful salsa mixture.

Step 4: Optional Enhancements
Stir in fresh chopped cilantro or diced jalapeño if desired.
Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lime juice.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Serve the chicken hot with your choice of toppings and sides.
Use it in tacos, burrito bowls, lettuce wraps, or even over nachos.

Tips for the Best Salsa Verde Chicken
Use Thighs for Juicier Results – Chicken thighs tend to stay moist and shred beautifully.
Homemade Salsa Verde – If you have time, homemade salsa adds incredible depth.
Don’t Overcook – Check at the minimum cooking time to keep the chicken juicy.
Double the Batch – This recipe doubles well for meal prep or larger gatherings.
Layer the Flavor – Add toppings like avocado, sour cream, or pickled onions to take it over the top.

Serving Suggestions
Taco Night – Serve in warm tortillas with cheese, avocado, and lime.
Burrito Bowls – Over rice or quinoa with beans, corn, and fresh toppings.
Quesadillas – Use as a filling with melted cheese between tortillas.
Salads – Add to a bed of greens with a creamy avocado dressing.
Loaded Nachos – Spoon over tortilla chips with melted cheese and fresh jalapeños.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Let the chicken cool completely, then freeze in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.

Reheating:
Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
Slow Cooker: If frozen, reheat on LOW until thawed and hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
   Yes, but thaw it first for even cooking and food safety.
2. Can I make this recipe spicier?
   Add a diced jalapeño, serrano pepper, or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
3. What’s the best salsa verde to use?
   Use your favorite store-bought brand or a homemade version made with tomatillos, garlic, lime, and cilantro.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, just make sure your salsa verde and tortillas are certified gluten-free.
5. Can I make it creamy?
   Yes, stir in a spoonful of sour cream or cream cheese at the end for a creamy version.

Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken is the definition of easy comfort food. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you get juicy, flavor-packed shredded chicken that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, prepping for the week, or just craving something zesty and satisfying, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Give it a try and let me know your favorite way to serve it! Don’t forget to leave a review and share your creations on Pinterest or Instagram.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 6 hours (on LOW)
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 280 | Protein: 29g | Carbohydrates: 6g | Fat: 15g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 510mg

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