Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken

If you’re looking for a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, this Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken is exactly what you need! Tender, juicy chicken is slow-cooked in a vibrant salsa verde sauce, creating a deliciously zesty meal that’s perfect for tacos, bowls, salads, and more.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Effortless Cooking – Just set it and forget it, thanks to the crockpot.
Packed with Flavor – Salsa verde brings a bright, tangy, and slightly spicy kick.
Versatile – Great for tacos, burritos, bowls, nachos, and meal prep.
Healthy Option – High in protein, low in carbs, and naturally gluten-free.
Family-Friendly – Mild enough for kids but customizable for spice lovers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salsa Verde Chicken:

• 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 chili powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ cup chicken broth

For Garnish & Serving:

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Sliced avocado
• Lime wedges
• Crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheese
• Warm tortillas, rice, or tortilla chips

Tools You’ll Need

• Crockpot or slow cooker
• Forks for shredding
• Mixing bowl (optional)
• Cutting board and knife

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts or thighs dry with a paper towel.
Season both sides with salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, and paprika.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
Pour a small amount of olive oil into the bottom of the crockpot.
Place the seasoned chicken on top.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic over the chicken.
Pour the salsa verde and chicken broth evenly over everything.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is very tender and easily shreddable.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks.
Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir it back into the sauce to soak up all the flavors.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the chicken before serving.
Serve with warm tortillas, over rice, in a bowl, or with tortilla chips. Add avocado slices, a squeeze of lime, and crumbled queso fresco for a perfect finishing touch.

Tips for Perfect Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken
Use Thighs for Extra Juiciness – Chicken thighs stay tender and juicy longer than breasts.
Homemade Salsa Verde – Make your own for even fresher flavor if you have time.
Don’t Overcook – Check around the 6-hour mark if using breasts to avoid drying them out.
Adjust Spice Level – Use a mild salsa verde for less heat, or add jalapeños for an extra kick.

Serving Suggestions
Tacos – Pile the chicken into soft tortillas and top with your favorite fixings.
Rice Bowls – Serve over cilantro-lime rice with black beans and veggies.
Nachos – Layer over tortilla chips and top with melted cheese, jalapeños, and sour cream.
Salads – Add to a big, vibrant salad for a lighter meal option.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing:
Freeze shredded chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:
Stovetop: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
   Yes, but thaw it completely before adding it to the crockpot for even cooking.
2. What’s the best salsa verde to use?
   A jarred version from the store works perfectly, but look for one with simple, fresh ingredients.
3. Can I make this spicier?
   Absolutely! Stir in chopped jalapeños, add a pinch of cayenne, or use a spicy salsa verde.
4. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes! This chicken is perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day.

Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken is a true weeknight hero—flavorful, easy, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re planning a casual taco night, prepping lunches for the week, or just want something simple yet satisfying, this recipe delivers every time.

Give it a try and let me know how you like it! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your delicious creations on Pinterest. I can’t wait to see what you whip up!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 6 hours
Cuisine: Mexican-American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 240 | Protein: 28g | Carbohydrates: 6g | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 520mg

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