Are you ready to transform your kitchen into a Mexican culinary paradise with minimal effort? Get ready for the most mouthwatering, fall-apart tender chicken recipe that will have your family begging for seconds! This Mexican Slow Cooker Chicken is not just a meal; it's a flavor explosion that combines the convenience of a slow cooker with the vibrant, bold tastes of authentic Mexican cuisine. Whether you're a busy professional, a home cook, or someone who craves restaurant-quality meals without the hassle, this recipe is your ticket to an incredible dining experience.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken breasts
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 jar salsa
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Rinse and drain the black beans and corn, and set them aside. Ensure the chicken breasts are thawed if they were frozen.
- In a large slow cooker, place the 2 lbs of chicken breasts at the bottom. This will allow the juices from the other ingredients to flavor the chicken as it cooks.
- Pour the can of black beans over the chicken, followed by the can of corn. Spread them evenly over the chicken to ensure even cooking.
- Next, take the jar of salsa and pour it over the beans and corn. The salsa will add moisture and flavor to the dish.
- Sprinkle the cumin and chili powder over the ingredients in the slow cooker. These spices will infuse the chicken and vegetables with a warm, Mexican-inspired flavor.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Be mindful of the saltiness of the salsa and beans as you add salt.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours. This slow cooking method will allow the chicken to become tender and absorb all the flavors from the other ingredients.
- After 6 hours, check the chicken for doneness. It should be cooked through and easily shredded with a fork. If it’s not done, continue to cook for an additional 30 minutes to an hour.
- Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker, mixing it with the beans, corn, and salsa.
- Serve the Mexican slow cooker chicken warm, either in bowls or on tortillas. Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado, or cheese if desired. Enjoy your meal!
Tips
- Choose the Right Salsa: The salsa is your flavor secret weapon! Opt for a medium or hot salsa to add depth and complexity to your dish.
- Chicken Selection Matters: Use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best texture and flavor. If possible, choose organic or free-range chicken.
- Avoid Overcooking: While slow cookers are forgiving, check your chicken at the
- 5-hour mark to prevent it from becoming too dry.
- Customize Your Toppings: Enhance your dish with fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, diced avocado, sour cream, or a squeeze of lime for extra brightness.
- Meal Prep Magic: This recipe freezes beautifully! Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months for quick future meals.
- Spice Level Control: Adjust the cumin and chili powder to match your heat preference. Start with less, and you can always add more.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve over rice, in tortillas, or as a topping for salads to create multiple meal variations from one recipe.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 40g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 110mg
