Easiest Salsa Verde Chicken
When I think of a comforting yet effortless meal, the Easiest Salsa Verde Chicken immediately comes to mind. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a busy weeknight, and the last thing I wanted was to spend hours in the kitchen. Instead, I reached for my trusty slow cooker, and I was amazed at how simple it was to prepare. Just a handful of ingredients, some seasoning, and a little patience was all it took. As the aroma filled my kitchen, I knew I was in for something special. It’s incredible how this dish can transform the most humble of ingredients into something utterly delicious. Whether you’re enjoying it over rice, in tacos, or just with a side of veggies, this recipe never disappoints. It’s one of those meals that feels indulgent but is surprisingly healthy, making it perfect for any night of the week.
Recipe Snapshot
2 hr 5 mins
5 mins
120 mins
Hard
300 kcal
40 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
10 g
Instant Pot, Baking Sheet, Slow Cooker
The Best Thing About This Easiest Salsa Verde Chicken
Convenience at Its Best
One of the primary reasons I love the Easiest Salsa Verde Chicken is its unbeatable convenience. With just a few ingredients, you can have a hearty meal ready without spending hours in the kitchen. You can simply throw everything into your slow cooker or Instant Pot and let it do its magic. This is a game-changer for busy people like us!
Flavor Explosion
The combination of spices and salsa verde creates a flavor explosion that’s both bright and savory. Each bite is packed with flavor, thanks to the careful balance of garlic powder, oregano, and ground cumin. You really don’t need to do much to make it shine!
Perfect for Meal Prepping
This dish is also an excellent option for meal prepping. I often make a big batch and store the leftovers in the fridge or freezer for busy days ahead. It reheats beautifully, making it an ideal choice for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
Versatile and Customizable
Another aspect I adore is its versatility. You can serve it in numerous ways—over rice, in tacos, or even on a salad. Plus, you can easily adjust the seasoning to suit your taste, making it perfect for everyone in the family. Don’t hesitate to add your favorite toppings, like avocado or cilantro!
A Healthy Option
The Easiest Salsa Verde Chicken checks all the boxes for a healthy meal. It’s packed with lean protein from the chicken and low in carbs, especially when you serve it with veggies or a salad. It’s a guilt-free pleasure that you can indulge in any day!
Kid-Friendly
Lastly, this dish is a hit with kids. The tender chicken and flavorful sauce make it easy for them to enjoy without any fuss. Serve it up with their favorite sides, and watch them dig in with delight!
Ingredients for Easiest Salsa Verde Chicken
In the world of cooking, the ingredients you choose can make or break a dish. For the Easiest Salsa Verde Chicken, the key players are simple yet impactful. Combining chicken with salsa verde and a few spices creates a luscious dish that’s sure to please. Each ingredient plays a vital role, contributing to the final flavor profile that makes this recipe so special.
- 1 1/2 lbs raw skinless chicken tenders or chicken breast: These are the stars of the dish, providing lean protein and a satisfying texture.
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder: This adds a subtle, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- 1/8 tsp oregano: A touch of this herb brings a warm, earthy flavor to the dish, complementing the salsa verde.
- 1/8 tsp ground cumin: This spice adds a hint of warmth and depth, rounding out the overall flavor.
- Salt, to taste: Essential for elevating and balancing all the flavors.
- 16 oz roasted salsa verde: This is the flavor powerhouse of the dish, infusing the chicken with a tangy and zesty kick.
Cooking Method for Easiest Salsa Verde Chicken
Cooking the Easiest Salsa Verde Chicken is an absolute joy, and it’s so easy that anyone can do it. Whether you opt for the slow cooker or the Instant Pot, the process remains straightforward and forgiving. I often find myself daydreaming about the aroma wafting through the kitchen as it cooks. Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions that will make your cooking experience as delightful as the dish itself!
- Start by seasoning the chicken with garlic powder, oregano, ground cumin, and salt. Make sure the seasoning is even, so every bite bursts with flavor. I like to massage the spices into the chicken for maximum impact.
- Place the seasoned chicken at the bottom of your slow cooker. Next, pour half of the salsa verde (about 8 oz) over the chicken. This will meld the flavors beautifully as it cooks.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on high for 2 hours or low for 4 hours. If you’re using the Instant Pot, you’ll want to follow the same seasoning and layering steps, then cover and cook under high pressure for 20 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from either cooker and use two forks to shred it. This is where the magic happens—the chicken should be tender and easily pull apart.
- Before returning the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, remove about 2/3 cup of liquid and discard it unless you want a sauce over rice. This helps concentrate the flavors.
- Place the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker, adding the remaining salsa verde. Stir it well, and taste—it’s your chance to adjust the seasoning!
- For the Instant Pot, after shredding the chicken, you can toss it back in the pot with the remaining salsa verde and give it a quick stir.
- Let the chicken sit for a few minutes on warm to soak in the flavors before serving. This step is crucial for maximum flavor infusion.
- Now, it’s time to serve! Whether it’s in tacos, over rice, or in a salad, enjoy every savory bite of your Easiest Salsa Verde Chicken.
Things Worth Knowing
- Slow Cooker vs. Instant Pot: Both methods work wonderfully, but the slow cooker allows for a more gradual melding of flavors.
- Check the Chicken: Always ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to add additional spices or vegetables to customize the dish to your liking.
- Leftovers: This dish makes fantastic leftovers, so don’t hesitate to make a larger batch!
Recipe Tips about Easiest Salsa Verde Chicken
Cooking the Easiest Salsa Verde Chicken is simple, but having some tips can enhance your experience even further. Here are some insights to ensure everything goes smoothly:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Freezing: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags.
- Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad to add some crunch.
- Serving Style: For a family-style meal, serve the Easiest Salsa Verde Chicken directly from the slow cooker, allowing everyone to help themselves.
- Garnishing: Top with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness before serving.
How to Enjoy Easiest Salsa Verde Chicken
Enjoying the Easiest Salsa Verde Chicken can be as versatile as the dish itself. Here are some creative ways to serve it:
- Tacos: Shred the chicken and serve it in warm tortillas with avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a delicious taco night.
- Rice Bowls: Serve over a bed of fluffy rice, topped with your favorite vegetables and a drizzle of more salsa verde.
- Salads: Toss the shredded chicken into a fresh salad to add protein and flavor. It’s especially tasty with a zesty dressing.
- Sandwiches: Use the chicken to fill sandwiches or wraps for an easy, satisfying lunch.
- Meal Prep: Portion out servings for easy meals throughout the week. It’s a great way to ensure you have something ready to go!
- Occasions: This dish is perfect for casual family dinners, game day gatherings, or even meal prepping for busy weeks.
Conclusion
The Easiest Salsa Verde Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and satisfaction. With its easy preparation and delightful flavors, it’s perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the wonderful taste of home-cooked goodness. You won’t regret it!
Easiest Salsa Verde Chicken
Equipment
- Instant Pot
- Baking Sheet
- Slow Cooker
Ingredients Â
- 1.5 lbs Chicken Tenders or chicken breast
- 0.25 tsp Garlic Powder
- 0.125 tsp Oregano
- 0.125 tsp Ground Cumin
- to taste Salt
- 16 oz Roasted Salsa Verde check labels for Whole 30 compliance
InstructionsÂ
- Season chicken with garlic powder, oregano, cumin and salt and place in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Top with half the salsa verde (8 oz), cover and cook HIGH 2 hours or low 4 hours.
- Remove chicken, shred with 2 forks.
- Remove 2/3 cup of liquid from the slow cooker, and discard (unless you want it over rice).
- Place shredded chicken back into the crock pot with remaining salsa, adjust seasoning to taste if needed and keep warm.
- Season chicken with garlic powder, oregano, cumin and salt and place in the bottom of the Instant Pot.
- Cover with salsa verde, cover and cook HIGH pressure 20 minutes. Quick or natural release.
- Remove chicken, shred with 2 forks.
Notes
- Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Tip 2: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags.
- Tip 3: This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad to add some crunch.
- Tip 4: For a family-style meal, serve the Easiest Salsa Verde Chicken directly from the slow cooker, allowing everyone to help themselves.
- Tip 5: Top with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness before serving.
