Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken

Name: Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup salsa; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn, frozen or canned

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This effortless slow cooker salsa chicken is packed with flavor and perfect for busy weeknights.

Created by

Natalie Briggs

Last updated on 2025-12-30T00:52:15.773Z

This slow cooker salsa chicken is a versatile dish that can be used in tacos, salads, or served over rice. With minimal prep time, it’s perfect for those busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without the hassle.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Effortless preparation with just a few ingredients
Packed with zesty flavor from fresh salsa
Great for meal prep and leftovers

      

Effortless Cooking

One of the best things about this Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something quick and easy. Simply toss everything into the slow cooker, set it, and let it do the work for you. You’ll return home to a warm, inviting aroma that fills the house.

The slow cooker takes care of the cooking process, ensuring that the chicken remains tender and flavorful. The low and slow method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a dish that tastes like you spent hours preparing it. This effortless cooking style makes it a favorite among families and individuals alike, as it allows for more time to relax or attend to other tasks.

Versatile Meal Option

This salsa chicken is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Serve it as a main dish with rice or tortillas, use it as a filling for tacos, or pile it onto a salad for a fresh, healthy meal. The options are endless! You can also customize it by adding your favorite toppings, such as avocado, cheese, or sour cream, to enhance its flavor even further.

Additionally, this dish is great for meal prep. You can easily double the recipe and enjoy it throughout the week. Whether for lunch or dinner, having leftovers on hand saves time and ensures you have a delicious, home-cooked meal ready whenever you need it. Plus, the flavors tend to deepen and improve when reheated, making it even more enjoyable the next day.

Health Benefits

This recipe not only tastes great, but it also boasts several health benefits. Chicken is a lean source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Paired with black beans and corn, you’ll get a good dose of fiber, vitamins, and minerals that contribute to a balanced diet. The salsa adds a kick of flavor while being low in calories, making it a healthy choice for any meal.

By preparing this meal at home, you have complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to avoid preservatives and additives commonly found in store-bought meals. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor. Enjoying wholesome meals like salsa chicken can help support your overall well-being and contribute to a healthy lifestyle.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup salsa
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn, frozen or canned

Combine these ingredients in your slow cooker for a delicious meal.

Instructions

Prepare Ingredients

Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.

Add Salsa and Seasoning

Pour the salsa over the chicken and sprinkle the taco seasoning on top.

Add Beans and Corn

Add the black beans and corn to the slow cooker, stirring gently to combine.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and easy to shred.

Shred Chicken

Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and mix it with the sauce.

Serve with your favorite sides or use in tacos!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your slow cooker salsa chicken, the possibilities are endless. For a quick dinner, serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. If you're in the mood for something more casual, consider using it as a filling for soft or hard-shell tacos. Top with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor. Additionally, it makes a great topping for nachos, just layer the chicken over tortilla chips and sprinkle with cheese before baking.

For a lighter option, serve the salsa chicken on a bed of mixed greens or as part of a hearty salad. The freshness of the greens complements the zesty chicken beautifully, creating a satisfying yet healthy meal. You can also add your favorite vegetables or avocado for added nutrition.

Storage Tips

Storing leftovers from this salsa chicken is easy and convenient. Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it perfect for meal prep. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions of the chicken. Simply place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, and it can last for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen salsa chicken, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the microwave or on the stove. The chicken will taste just as delicious as when it was first cooked, making it a great option for busy days ahead.

Tips for Success

For the best results, choose high-quality chicken breasts and fresh salsa. The quality of your ingredients will significantly impact the final flavor of the dish. If you prefer a spicier kick, opt for a salsa that has jalapeños or other hot peppers included, or add extra spices according to your taste.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with additional ingredients. Feel free to toss in some chopped bell peppers, onions, or even diced zucchini for added texture and flavor. Remember to adjust the cooking time if you add more ingredients, ensuring everything is cooked through and delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This salsa chicken is great in tacos, over rice, or in a salad.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free taco seasoning, this recipe is gluten-free.