Let me tell you, quick crockpot recipes are absolute lifesavers for those of us with a hectic schedule! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve come home after a long day, only to find that dinner is ready and waiting for me—thanks to my trusty crockpot. This recipe is a perfect example of that effortless goodness. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that’s bursting with flavor without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, it doesn’t get much easier or tastier than this! You’re going to love how little time it takes to prep while still delivering on that cozy, home-cooked vibe.
Ingredients List
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts – make sure they’re trimmed of any fat for the best texture.
- 1 cup salsa – I love using a chunky salsa for extra flavor and texture, but any kind you prefer works!
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained – this adds protein and a nice earthy flavor.
- 1 cup frozen corn – no need to thaw, it’ll cook perfectly in the crockpot.
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning – feel free to adjust this if you like it spicier or milder!
- 1 cup packed shredded cheese – I usually go for cheddar, but you can use your favorite cheese for that melty goodness.
How to Prepare Instructions
- Start by placing the 2 pounds of trimmed chicken breasts right at the bottom of your crockpot. This will help them cook evenly and soak up all those flavors!
- Next, pour in 1 cup of your favorite chunky salsa, and then add the rinsed and drained black beans along with the 1 cup of frozen corn. These ingredients not only add flavor but also a delightful texture.
- Now, sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning. Don’t worry if you want it spicier; you can always add more later!
- Give everything a good stir to combine all those delicious ingredients. Make sure the chicken is well coated with the salsa and spices.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, and you’ll be counting down the minutes!
- When the cooking time is up, shred the chicken right in the pot using two forks. It should be super tender and pull apart easily.
- Finally, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese and let it melt into the warm mixture. Serve this up warm, and enjoy every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super quick to prep, taking only 15 minutes!
- One-pot wonder means minimal cleanup—yay!
- Healthy ingredients like chicken, beans, and corn make it a nourishing choice.
- The flavor is out of this world, thanks to salsa and taco seasoning.
- It’s versatile—great for tacos, burritos, or even as a standalone dish!
Tips for Success
To make sure your crockpot chicken turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind! First, don’t overcrowd the pot; it’s important for the chicken to have enough space to cook evenly. If you’re using frozen chicken, just add an extra hour to the cooking time on low. Also, remember to check the seasoning—taste it towards the end of cooking and adjust the taco seasoning if you want more kick. And if you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the lid for the last 30 minutes to let some liquid evaporate. Trust me, these little tweaks can make a big difference!
Variations
You can totally switch things up with this recipe! For a different flavor profile, try using pinto beans or kidney beans instead of black beans. If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some diced bell peppers or zucchini for extra veggies and color. Want to spice it up? Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat! If you’re a fan of different cuisines, swap the taco seasoning for Italian herbs and add some diced tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and make it your own!
Serving Suggestions
This delicious crockpot chicken is super versatile, and I love serving it with warm tortillas for an easy taco night! You can also spoon it over fluffy rice for a heartier meal. For a fresh twist, add some avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream on top. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for that pop of flavor. Trust me, it’s the perfect way to enjoy every last bite!
Nutritional Information
Just a heads up, the nutritional information can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these figures are estimates. Each serving of this dish contains about 350 calories, with 30g of protein and 10g of fat. It’s a wholesome option that fits nicely into a balanced diet. Always feel free to adjust ingredients to suit your dietary needs!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen chicken breasts, just add an extra hour to the cooking time on low. It’ll still turn out tender and delicious!
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you love heat, try adding diced jalapeños, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, or extra taco seasoning to kick things up a notch. Taste as you go!
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients, but make sure your crockpot has enough space. You might need to extend the cooking time slightly.
Can I use different beans?
Definitely! Feel free to swap black beans for pinto, kidney, or even chickpeas for a fun twist. Each will add its own unique flavor!
What if I don’t have taco seasoning?
No worries! You can create your own mix using chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. It’s super easy and just as tasty!
Quick Crockpot Recipes: 7 Easy Meals to Savor Tonight
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and easy recipe for a quick meal using a crockpot.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of chicken breasts
- 1 cup of salsa
- 1 can of black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup of corn
- 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning
- 1 cup of shredded cheese
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- Add salsa, black beans, corn, and taco seasoning.
- Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- Shred the chicken with two forks.
- Stir in shredded cheese and let it melt.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Serve with tortillas or rice.
- You can add more spices to taste.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: quick crockpot recipes
