Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary Mexican-inspired culinary adventure! This Crock Pot Ranchero Chicken is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it meal that promises to tantalize your taste buds and save you precious time in the kitchen. Imagine coming home to a perfectly cooked, flavor-packed dish that's so delicious, your family will think you've been slaving away all day – when in reality, your trusty crock pot did all the hard work!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 jar (16 oz) salsa
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Rinse and drain the black beans and corn, and set them aside.
- In a large crock pot, place the four boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom. Make sure they are evenly spaced out.
- Open the jar of salsa and pour it over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.
- Sprinkle the packet of taco seasoning evenly over the salsa-covered chicken. This will add flavor and depth to the dish.
- Next, add the drained black beans and corn on top of the chicken and salsa mixture. Spread them out to ensure even cooking.
- Cover the crock pot with its lid. Set the temperature to low and let it cook for approximately 6 hours. This slow cooking method will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- After 6 hours, check the chicken for doneness. It should be tender and easily shredded with a fork. If it’s not quite ready, allow it to cook for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crock pot, mixing it with the beans, corn, and salsa.
- If desired, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top of the mixture. Cover the crock pot again and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
- Once the cheese is melted, give the mixture a good stir to combine everything. Serve the Ranchero Chicken warm, garnished with your choice of toppings such as cilantro, sour cream, or avocado.
- This dish can be served on its own, over rice, or in tortillas for a delicious taco night!
Tips
- For maximum flavor, try to use fresh salsa instead of jarred if possible. Homemade or fresh deli salsa can elevate the entire dish.
- Don't skip the taco seasoning – it's the secret weapon that gives this recipe its signature zesty kick!
- If you prefer a spicier version, opt for a hot salsa or add some diced jalapeños to the mix.
- To keep the chicken extra moist, avoid lifting the crock pot lid too often during cooking. Each time you remove the lid, you lose heat and extend cooking time.
- For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or enjoy as-is. For a heartier meal, serve over traditional rice or wrap in warm tortillas.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and make an excellent filling for enchiladas or topping for nachos.
- If you're short on time, you can also cook this on high for 3-4 hours instead of the low and slow method.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 90mg
