This simple slow cooker chicken recipe packs irresistible flavor with minimal effort. All you need are juicy, boneless chicken breasts, your favorite salsa, and a sprinkling of taco seasoning. Set it and forget it—then come back to a tender, tangy, and spicy dish that’s perfect for tacos, burritos, or simply pairing with rice.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ to 2 pounds boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup of your favorite salsa
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
Instructions
Begin by arranging the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker in a single layer. Spoon the salsa evenly over the chicken, making sure it’s nicely coated. Then, sprinkle the taco seasoning on top, giving everything a gentle stir or two so that the flavorings mingle.
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat for 6 to 8 hours, or high heat for about 4 hours. The chicken is done when it’s fork-tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Once finished, shred the meat directly in the slow cooker using two forks, stirring to coat it thoroughly with the salsa juices.
Serve your slow cooker chicken hot in tortillas with fresh toppings—like guacamole, shredded cheese, crisp lettuce, and a dollop of sour cream—or spoon it over a bed of rice for a warming weeknight meal.
Tip: If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the cover for the last 15 minutes of cooking or set the slow cooker to high, allowing any extra moisture to cook off.
This 3-ingredient wonder is an absolute lifesaver for busy weekdays and offers a flexible base for countless variations. Swap in a different seasoning blend—like Cajun or Italian herbs—or try adding a can of diced tomatoes for extra texture. With its low-fat profile (especially if you choose a salsa with minimal added sugar) and fresh-tasting flavors, this recipe is for anyone looking for something easy and delicious. You’ll love the satisfying, go-to nature of this simple slow cooker miracle.
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.
