Easy Tender Slow Cooker Salsa Verde Chicken Recipe for Perfect Weeknight Dinners
This easy slow cooker salsa verde chicken recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken infused with bright, tangy flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s simple to prepare and versatile for tacos, bowls, or salads.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 2 pounds (900 g) chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup (240 ml) salsa verde (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 can (4 oz / 114 g) green chilies, diced or whole (optional)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt to taste (start with 1 teaspoon)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- ½ cup (120 ml) chicken broth
- A handful of fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Mince 3 garlic cloves and finely chop 1 small onion. Drain and add a can of diced green chilies if desired for extra flavor.
- Pat dry 2 pounds (900 g) of chicken thighs or breasts. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon cumin evenly over both sides.
- Place the seasoned chicken pieces at the bottom of the slow cooker. Spread the chopped onion and minced garlic over the top.
- Pour 1 cup (240 ml) of salsa verde and ½ cup (120 ml) of chicken broth over the chicken and aromatics.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and is tender enough to shred easily.
- Remove the chicken with tongs or a slotted spoon onto a plate. Use two forks to shred the meat finely.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it into the remaining sauce. Add a handful of chopped fresh cilantro and stir. Adjust salt or add lime juice if desired.
- Serve warm in tacos, over rice bowls, or on toasted bread.
Notes
Choose chicken thighs for juicier meat. Avoid lifting the slow cooker lid during cooking to maintain heat. Use good quality salsa verde to avoid watery results. Let chicken cool slightly before shredding to retain juices. Adjust salt after cooking. For a spicy version, add jalapeños or chipotle powder. Instant Pot pressure cooking option: 15 minutes high pressure with natural release.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 4 ounces (113
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 1.5
- Carbohydrates: 4
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 35
Keywords: slow cooker chicken, salsa verde chicken, easy dinner, weeknight recipe, tender chicken, slow cooker recipe, Mexican chicken, healthy chicken recipe