Looking for a fuss-free, flavor-packed weeknight dinner with minimal prep? This Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Cheesy Salsa Chicken has you covered. Toss everything into your slow cooker, let it do all the hard work, and come home to a warm, comforting meal the entire family will love.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (16-ounce) jar of your favorite salsa
- 1 (1-ounce) packet of taco seasoning
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the chicken, then pour the jar of salsa on top. Cover and cook on low for about 4 to 5 hours, or until the chicken is fork-tender.
Once the chicken has cooked through, lift the lid and gently shred the chicken in the slow cooker using two forks. Stir in the cream cheese until it melts into the sauce, creating a velvety texture. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken mixture, cover, and allow it to melt for a few minutes before serving.
Why is this 5-ingredient recipe so irresistible? It’s simple, satisfying, and loaded with comforting flavors—perfect for busy weeknights or for anyone who craves a soothing, home-cooked meal without a long list of steps. You can serve this dish over rice, in tortillas, or on a bed of fresh greens.
If you’re watching your calories, opt for low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat shredded cheese. Want a smoky twist? Add a pinch of chipotle powder. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility: feel free to mix it up with any cheese or salsa variety you prefer. Happy slow cooking!
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
