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Easy 3-Ingredient Crockpot Salsa Chicken: Best Dinner Recipe

crockpot salsa chicken - featured image

This Easy 3-Ingredient Crockpot Salsa Chicken is a set-it-and-forget-it weeknight dinner that requires just five minutes of prep. With chicken, salsa, and taco seasoning, it delivers tender, flavorful shredded chicken perfect for tacos, burritos, or salads.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 16 ounces salsa (medium-heat restaurant-style recommended)
  • 1 packet (about 1 ounce) taco seasoning or ranch mix
  • Optional: chopped cilantro and fresh lime juice for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and trim any visible fat. Place in the slow cooker in a single layer.
  2. Sprinkle the entire packet of taco seasoning (or ranch mix) evenly over the chicken.
  3. Pour the entire 16-ounce jar of salsa over the seasoned chicken. Do not stir.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for breasts or 175°F (80°C) for thighs.
  5. Remove the chicken to a cutting board (or shred directly in the slow cooker) and shred with two forks.
  6. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir into the sauce. Let sit for 5-10 minutes.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with cilantro and lime juice before serving.

Notes

For best results, use a medium-heat restaurant-style salsa and avoid lifting the lid during the first 3 hours. The recipe can be doubled for meal prep or freezing. Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot salsa chicken, 3-ingredient dinner, slow cooker chicken, easy weeknight meal, shredded chicken tacos