Are you ready to embark on a flavorful journey to the heart of Mexico without ever leaving your kitchen? Introducing the Fiesta Slow Cooker Chicken—a dish that promises to be the star of your dinner table! With tender, juicy chicken thighs simmered in zesty salsa, hearty black beans, and sweet corn, this recipe is not only a feast for the senses but also a breeze to prepare. In just 10 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it, allowing the slow cooker to do all the work while you savor the enticing aromas that fill your home. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a cozy meal, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 jar salsa
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
Instructions
- Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the chicken thighs, coating them completely to ensure maximum flavor infusion.
- Drain and rinse the black beans, then add them on top of the seasoned chicken.
- Drain the corn and spread it evenly over the black beans in the slow cooker.
- Pour the entire jar of salsa over the chicken, beans, and corn, making sure to cover all ingredients.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set to low heat setting.
- Cook for 6 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender and absorb the flavors of the salsa and seasonings.
- After cooking time is complete, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker, mixing it with the beans, corn, and salsa.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or sliced avocado.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for extra flavor and moisture. If you prefer, boneless thighs work just as well for easier shredding.
- Layering is Key: Always place the chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker to ensure it cooks evenly and absorbs all the delicious flavors from the salsa and seasoning.
- Customize Your Salsa: Feel free to experiment with different types of salsa—mild, medium, or hot—depending on your spice preference. You can even use a salsa verde for a unique twist!
- Add Extra Veggies: Boost the nutrition by adding bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the mix. Just chop them up and layer them in before adding the salsa.
- Garnish for Flavor: Once your dish is ready, don’t skip the garnishes! Fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or slices of avocado can elevate the flavors and presentation.
- Serve with Sides: This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, tortillas, or even over a bed of leafy greens for a lighter option.
- Leftovers are Gold: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They make for delicious tacos or burrito fillings the next day!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 277kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: mg
