This Easy Crockpot Mexican Chicken is a simple dish that’s bursting with flavor. Just throw chicken, salsa, and spices into your slow cooker, and let it do the work!
I love how tender the chicken gets! It’s perfect for tacos or served over rice. Plus, it’s a total time-saver on busy days. Just set it and forget it! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breast makes this recipe easy and quick. You can substitute it with thighs for a juicier texture. For a plant-based option, try using jackfruit or firm tofu instead.
Salsa: Choose a salsa that matches your heat level preference. Fresh salsa can add a bright flavor! If you’re out, a can of diced tomatoes with seasoning can work too.
Taco Seasoning: If you don’t have a packet, mix your own using chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder. This gives you control over the flavors and spice level.
Black Beans & Corn: These add texture and nutrition. You can skip them if you prefer a simpler dish or replace black beans with pinto beans. For corn, any type works—fresh, frozen, or canned!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Shredded Chicken in a Crockpot?
Shredding chicken might seem tricky, but it’s super easy with a few tips! First, make sure your chicken is fully cooked. After cooking, let the chicken cool for a few minutes, then use two forks to pull apart the meat. You can also use a hand mixer on low speed for a quicker shredding process.
- Check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Use forks and start pulling apart the chicken gently.
- Mix in the sauce from the crockpot as you shred for extra flavor.
This method makes it fluffy and flavorful, perfect for your tacos or rice bowls!
Easy Crockpot Mexican Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa (mild or spicy, your choice)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 oz)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Shredded cheese (optional, for serving)
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
- Tortillas or rice (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and then cooks for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. It’s a great meal to set in the morning and enjoy later with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. This keeps them moist while cooking.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the salsa, taco seasoning, chicken broth, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Stir everything together until well mixed. This flavorful mixture will soak into the chicken as it cooks!
3. Combine Ingredients:
Pour the salsa mixture evenly over the chicken. Then, add the drained black beans and corn on top. No need to stir yet; just let everything layer nicely.
4. Cook:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender when done!
5. Shred the Chicken:
When cooking time is almost up, shred the chicken in the crockpot with two forks. It should pull apart easily. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.
6. Season and Serve:
Before serving, taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Serve the chicken topped with fresh cilantro and shredded cheese if desired. You can spoon it into warm tortillas for tacos or serve it over rice for a hearty meal.
7. Add Final Touches:
Don’t forget to place lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick. Enjoy your delicious, easy crockpot Mexican chicken!
This recipe is not only easy but packed with flavors, making it a family favorite!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Mexican Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just ensure they are completely thawed before cooking for even results. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or use a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water to speed up the process.
Can I Make This Chicken Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and salsa mixture a day ahead. Simply store it in the fridge and then transfer it to the crockpot for cooking day. This can save you time on a busy day!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This Mexican chicken is versatile! Serve it in tacos with your favorite toppings, over rice for a filling meal, or even on a salad for a lighter option. Don’t forget the lime wedges for squeezing over the top!
