Get ready to meet your new weeknight hero. This Crockpot Salsa Chicken is the absolute easiest, most flavorful, and versatile recipe you’ll ever make. With just three simple ingredients and five minutes of prep, you can have tender, juicy, shredded chicken ready for tacos, salads, or rice bowls. It’s a true “dump and go” meal that lets your slow cooker do all the work.
We’ve all had those busy days where spending an hour in the kitchen just isn’t an option. That’s where this recipe shines. It’s a lifesaver for busy families, meal preppers, and anyone who loves a delicious, low-effort dinner. Forget complicated steps and long ingredient lists; this is as simple as it gets.
Why This Crockpot Salsa Chicken Recipe is a Game-Changer
You’re going to fall in love with this recipe’s simplicity and incredible flavor. It’s designed to be practically foolproof, delivering perfectly tender chicken every single time. The salsa and taco seasoning infuse the chicken with a zesty, savory taste that’s simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a healthy, low-carb, and gluten-free option that fits into nearly any eating plan.
The Magic of 3 Simple Ingredients
The beauty of this recipe lies in its minimalism. You don’t need a pantry full of spices to create amazing flavor. Here’s a closer look at the powerhouse trio that makes this dish possible.
Choosing Your Chicken
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the best choice for this recipe. They cook evenly and shred beautifully. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat; they will be even more moist and tender.
The Best Salsa to Use
Use your favorite brand and heat level of jarred salsa. A chunky-style salsa adds great texture, but any variety will work. Mild, medium, or hot—the choice is yours! This is the perfect way to customize the flavor profile to your family’s preference.
Taco Seasoning: Packet vs. Homemade
A standard packet of taco seasoning is the easiest option and works perfectly. If you prefer to control the sodium or make your own blend, combine chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika for a delicious homemade alternative.
Ready for tacos, bowls, salads, and so much more!
How to Make The Easiest Crockpot Salsa Chicken
This is less of a recipe and more of a method. It’s so simple, you’ll have it memorized after making it just once. Follow these straightforward steps for a perfect result.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Place Chicken: Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of your crockpot.
Season: Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the chicken.
Add Salsa: Pour the entire jar of salsa over the seasoned chicken, ensuring it’s fully covered.
Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours. The chicken is done when it’s cooked through and tender enough to shred easily.
Shred: Remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it on a cutting board using two forks. You can also shred it directly in the slow cooker. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir it into the salsa and juices. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to soak up all the delicious flavor.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Shredded Salsa Chicken
While this recipe is incredibly simple, a few tips can make it even better.
Don’t Overcook: Chicken breast can become dry if cooked for too long. Start checking it at the lower end of the cook time.
No Extra Liquid Needed: The chicken and salsa will release plenty of liquid, so there’s no need to add any water or broth.
Shred with a Mixer: For ultra-fast shredding, place the cooked chicken in a large bowl and use a hand mixer on low speed. It will be perfectly shredded in seconds! If you need another simple chicken dinner, try this Creamy Garlic Chicken.
Fun Variations to Try
This base recipe is a fantastic starting point. Feel free to get creative and add other ingredients to customize it to your liking.
Creamy Salsa Chicken
For a rich, creamy twist, add 4 ounces of softened cream cheese to the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Stir until it’s melted and fully combined. This version is perfect for a decadent Cream Cheese Chicken Taco filling.
Add a Little Heat
If you love spicy food, add a chopped jalapeño, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce along with the salsa for an extra kick.
Make it a Full Meal in One Pot
Add a can of drained and rinsed black beans and a can of drained corn to the crockpot during the last hour of cooking for a heartier, all-in-one meal.
Look at that perfectly tender, juicy shredded chicken!
How to Serve Your Salsa Chicken
The possibilities are endless! This versatile shredded chicken can be used in so many delicious ways. Here are a few of our favorite ideas:
Tacos: Serve in warm corn or flour tortillas with your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, and guacamole.
Burrito Bowls: Serve over a bed of cilantro-lime rice with black beans, corn, and avocado.
Salads: Top a bed of crisp romaine lettuce with the salsa chicken, cheese, and a dollop of sour cream for a flavorful taco salad.
Nachos: Pile it onto tortilla chips, cover with shredded cheese, and bake until bubbly for the ultimate appetizer.
Quesadillas: Sandwich the chicken and cheese between two tortillas and pan-fry until golden and crispy.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
This Crockpot Salsa Chicken is perfect for meal prep. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave it or warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. For another easy weeknight meal, this Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is always a winner.
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, you will need to add about 1-2 hours to the cooking time on LOW to ensure they are fully cooked through.
Any jarred salsa you enjoy will work perfectly! A chunky salsa will add more texture, but smooth salsa works well too. You can use mild, medium, or hot to control the spice level of the final dish.
To make a creamy version, add 4 ounces of softened cream cheese to the crockpot during the final 30 minutes of cooking. Stir until it melts and creates a rich, creamy sauce.
This chicken is incredibly versatile! Serve it in tacos, burritos, quesadillas, or on top of rice for a burrito bowl. It’s also delicious on salads, nachos, or stuffed into baked potatoes.
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.
More Crockpot Recipes You’ll Love
If you love the convenience of your slow cooker, be sure to check out some of our other favorite crockpot recipes. From savory dinners to easy sides, there’s a recipe for every occasion. Try our amazing Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken for another simple weeknight option!
Share Your Creations!
We are so excited for you to try this simple and delicious Crockpot Salsa Chicken recipe! It’s a meal that brings flavor and ease to your dinner table. If you make it, please leave a comment below and let us know how you served it. We love hearing from you! For more amazing recipes, be sure to follow us on Pinterest.
Save this recipe! The easiest 3-ingredient Crockpot Salsa Chicken you'll ever make.
Crockpot Salsa Chicken Recipe
FL Recipes
Crockpot Salsa Chicken (The Easiest 3-Ingredient Recipe!)
This Crockpot Salsa Chicken is the easiest, most flavorful 'dump and go' meal ever! With just 3 ingredients and 5 minutes of prep, you get tender, juicy shredded chicken perfect for tacos, bowls, and salads.
1packet (1 oz)taco seasoningUse your favorite brand, or a homemade blend.
16ozsalsaUse your favorite brand and heat level.
Equipment
1 Slow Cooker (Crockpot) A 6-quart slow cooker is recommended.
2 Forks For shredding the chicken.
Method
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the chicken, then pour the salsa on top, making sure the chicken is fully covered.
Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.
Stir the shredded chicken with the salsa and juices in the crockpot. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors before serving.
Nutrition
Calories: 155kcalProtein: 28gFat: 2gFiber: 1g
Notes
Creamy Version: Add 4 oz of softened cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a richer sauce. Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Hi, I’m Emily Carter, and welcome to FL Recipes! I share simple, healthy recipes that make cooking easy, fun, and delicious for everyone. more about me »
