Easy Crock Pot Salsa Verde Chicken is a flavorful and effortless dish that brings together tender chicken breasts, tangy salsa verde, and a blend of spices. This slow-cooked meal is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delicious and healthy option that requires minimal preparation. The combination of roasted diced tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices infuses the chicken with rich flavors, making it a versatile base for tacos, salads, or rice bowls. With its simple “set it and forget it” approach, this recipe is a go-to for anyone seeking a satisfying and fuss-free dinner.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 14.5 ounces canned roasted diced tomatoes
• 2 cups salsa verde
• ½ tablespoon ground cumin
• ½ tablespoon chili powder
• Chopped parsley or cilantro, for garnish
• 1 jalapeno, sliced into rings, for garnish

Directions

1. Lightly spray the crockpot with cooking spray.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper and place them in the crockpot.
3. Top the chicken with diced onions and minced garlic.
4. Add the roasted diced tomatoes, salsa verde, ground cumin, and chili powder. Stir to combine.
5. Cover and cook on High for 3.5 to 4 hours or on Low for 5 to 6 hours.
6. Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and shred it using two forks.
7. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir to combine with the sauce.
8. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro and jalapeno slices before serving.

Nutrients

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 300
• Protein: 35g
• Total Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 5g

The Appeal of Crockpot Cooking

Crockpot or slow-cooker meals have become a household favorite for their convenience. The beauty of crockpot cooking lies in the ability to throw everything into the pot and let it cook slowly while you go about your day. This method results in tender, flavorful dishes without requiring constant attention. The slow cooking process allows the ingredients to meld together, enhancing the flavors and ensuring that the chicken becomes juicy and easily shredable.

For those with busy schedules or limited time in the kitchen, using a crockpot is a game changer. It eliminates the need for active cooking time, allowing you to come home to a fully prepared meal that’s ready to serve. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, Easy Crock Pot Salsa Verde Chicken ensures that you get a delicious meal with minimal effort.

Flavor Profile of Salsa Verde Chicken

At the heart of Easy Crock Pot Salsa Verde Chicken is salsa verde, a tangy and slightly spicy sauce made from tomatillos, green chilies, garlic, and cilantro. This sauce is the base that infuses the chicken with a unique flavor that distinguishes it from other chicken dishes. The tomatillos provide a citrusy, slightly tart flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken. Meanwhile, the green chilies and cilantro add depth and freshness to the sauce, creating a perfectly balanced dish.

The combination of these flavors makes this chicken dish both bright and hearty. The slow cooking process allows the salsa verde to reduce, concentrating its flavors and creating a rich, flavorful sauce that coats the chicken. The addition of cumin and chili powder in the recipe gives the dish a subtle warmth and complexity, elevating the overall flavor profile.

Why Choose Salsa Verde Chicken?

There are many reasons why Easy Crock Pot Salsa Verde Chicken is an ideal choice for dinner. Here are a few compelling factors that make this recipe a must-try:

1. Simplicity: The recipe is incredibly simple to follow, with just a few basic ingredients required. There’s no need to chop a long list of vegetables or prepare complex sauces. Everything is added to the crockpot, and the slow cooker does the work for you.

2. Healthier Option: Chicken breast is a lean protein that’s low in fat and high in essential nutrients, such as protein, vitamins, and minerals. This dish is also low in carbohydrates, making it a good choice for those following low-carb or ketogenic diets. The salsa verde adds flavor without adding excessive calories or unhealthy fats.

3. Versatility: Salsa Verde Chicken can be used in a variety of ways. You can serve it as a main dish with rice, make tacos, create burrito bowls, or even top a salad with it for a fresh, filling meal. This flexibility makes it a great option for meal prepping, as it can be repurposed into different meals throughout the week.

4. Great for Meal Prep: One of the best things about crockpot meals is their suitability for meal prepping. Easy Crock Pot Salsa Verde Chicken can be cooked in large batches, stored in the refrigerator for several days, and used in different meals. Whether you’re preparing lunch for the week or need an easy dinner option, this recipe fits the bill.

5. Customizable: While the recipe provides a basic flavor profile, it’s highly customizable based on your personal preferences. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer jalapeños, or you can incorporate other ingredients like beans or vegetables for added texture and nutrition. The dish can be made as mild or as spicy as you prefer.

Health Benefits of Salsa Verde Chicken

Salsa Verde Chicken is not only delicious but also a nutritious option for dinner. The main ingredients in this dish offer a variety of health benefits, making it a well-rounded meal that supports a healthy lifestyle.

• Lean Protein: Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Protein also helps with satiety, making this dish a filling meal that can keep you satisfied for hours.

• Low in Fat: Compared to other meats like beef or pork, chicken breast is relatively low in fat. This makes it a healthier option for those looking to reduce their fat intake. Additionally, salsa verde is made from ingredients like tomatillos and green chilies, which are naturally low in fat.

• High in Nutrients: Salsa verde contains tomatillos, which are rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function and skin health. The green chilies in the salsa are also packed with vitamin C, as well as capsaicin, a compound that has been shown to boost metabolism and promote fat burning.

• Rich in Fiber: The addition of ingredients like onions and garlic not only enhances the flavor of the dish but also contributes to its fiber content. Fiber is important for digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels, promoting overall well-being.

• Low in Carbs: Salsa Verde Chicken is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. By pairing it with vegetables or cauliflower rice, you can create a balanced, low-carb meal.

How to Serve Salsa Verde Chicken

One of the best things about Easy Crock Pot Salsa Verde Chicken is its versatility in terms of how it can be served. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. Tacos: One of the most popular ways to serve salsa verde chicken is in soft or hard tacos. Simply spoon the shredded chicken into tortillas and top with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, and a drizzle of sour cream.

2. Burrito Bowls: For a filling, nutritious meal, serve the salsa verde chicken over a bed of rice or quinoa. Add beans, sautéed vegetables, avocado, and salsa for a complete and delicious bowl.

3. Salads: For a lighter option, top a bed of mixed greens with the salsa verde chicken. Add ingredients like black beans, corn, avocado, and a cilantro-lime dressing for a fresh, vibrant salad.

4. Wraps: If you’re looking for a quick and portable meal, wrap the salsa verde chicken in a tortilla or lettuce leaf, along with some veggies and a bit of ranch or Greek yogurt dressing.

5. With Rice or Cauliflower Rice: For a simple, hearty meal, serve the chicken alongside steamed rice or cauliflower rice. This pairing creates a well-rounded dish that’s both filling and healthy.

Conclusion

Easy Crock Pot Salsa Verde Chicken is a flavorful, healthy, and versatile dish that’s perfect for busy families, meal prepping, or anyone looking for a quick and delicious dinner. The slow-cooked chicken is infused with the tangy, spicy salsa verde, creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor in every bite. Its simplicity, health benefits, and adaptability make it an excellent choice for a wide range of meals.