Easy Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken: 3-Ingredient Perfect Dinner
This easy slow cooker salsa chicken uses just three ingredients—chicken, salsa, and taco seasoning—for a tender, flavorful dinner that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a crowd-pleaser that requires only five minutes of prep.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Total Time: 6 hours 5 minutes to 7 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 16 ounces salsa (one standard jar)
- 1 packet (about 1 ounce) taco seasoning
Instructions
- Place the chicken in a single layer at the bottom of a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker.
- Pour the salsa evenly over the chicken. Do not stir.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the salsa and chicken. Do not stir.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fork-tender.
- Using two forks, shred the chicken right in the slow cooker. Stir the shredded chicken into the sauce until well coated.
- Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to absorb the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired (add lime juice, cayenne, or sour cream).
Notes
For best results, use a salsa with visible chunks (not watery). Low heat yields juicier chicken. Do not lift the lid during cooking. Shred chicken while warm for best texture. Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/4
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 900
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 2.5
- Carbohydrates: 10
- Fiber: 2.5
- Protein: 37
Keywords: slow cooker salsa chicken, 3-ingredient dinner, easy chicken recipe, salsa chicken, slow cooker chicken, weeknight dinner, gluten-free, dairy-free