This is a very easy slow cooker chicken and salsa recipe that makes a versatile meal. It tastes very similar to the chicken used in Mexican restaurants to make chicken taco salads. My kids eat it plain, but I like it with a big salad, avocado, and sour cream.
Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken has fajita-like flavor and is delicious in salads, quesadillas, or atop burrito bowls. This easy recipe is gluten-free and a great option for a simple weeknight dinner. We also often eat it for a quick lunch.
This recipe freezes and reheats really well for easy meal prep. It makes a great packed lunch or can be doubled for a quick meal later. I like to pack it as a salad in a mason jar by placing some in the bottom of a quart-sized mason jar. Top it with sour cream, salsa, cheddar cheese, avocado, and finally lettuce. Turn it upside down for a salad ready to go in two seconds.
Ingredients for chicken sauce
This chicken dinner is super easy and calls for shredded chicken, spices, and a jar of salsa. I’ve listed all the spices in the recipe, but you could even use 3 tablespoons of homemade taco seasoning for quicker prep. Our family uses chicken breast since that’s what I usually have on hand, but skinless chicken thighs work too and add more flavor.
To make an Instant Pot version, use the recipe below, but add 1 cup chicken broth while cooking. For frozen chicken, cook for 15 minutes and release pressure naturally. If using thawed chicken, reduce cooking time to 10 minutes and release pressure naturally.
What to eat with chicken in sauce
You can eat chicken with sauce as well as with vegetables (or salad) or use it as a protein in other dishes. Here are some ideas:
This recipe is simple, but not boring. Here are some ideas of what you can mix or put on your chicken with sauce.
- black beans or pinto beans
- cilantro
- diced jalapenos
- Add a little cream cheese
- topped with guacamole
- Add a splash of lemon juice
There are so many different ways to serve this chicken that I don’t get tired of it easily. To save time, I sometimes make a big batch on the weekend. Then I can reheat it and use it in different dishes throughout the week. I’ll have enchiladas for dinner on Monday and then chicken salad with salsa on Wednesday. Mix and match the toppings for even more variety!
Slow Cooker Chicken with Gravy Recipe
This easy chicken recipe is simple to prepare and very versatile. Enjoy it alone, on top of a salad, or as a protein for other dishes.
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Place boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs) in a slow cooker and sprinkle with all the spices.
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Pour the sauce over the chicken.
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Simmer for 7-8 hours until tender.
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Shred cooked chicken with forks before serving.
Nutritional data
Slow Cooker Chicken with Gravy Recipe
Amount per serving (1 cup)
Calories 196
Calories from fat 36
% Daily Value*
Fat 4g6%
Saturated fat 1g6%
Trans fats 0.02 g
Polyunsaturated fat 1 g
Monounsaturated fat 1 g
Cholesterol 96 mg32%
Sodium 1247 mg54%
Potassium 722 mg21%
Carbohydrates 5g2%
Fiber 1g4%
Sugar 2g2%
Protein 33 g66%
Vitamin A 463 IU9%
Vitamin C 3 mg4%
Calcium 35 mg4%
Iron 1 mg6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
- Serve the slightly cooled chicken over salad with desired toppings, such as avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, and additional salsa.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
What are your favorite toppings for gravy chicken? Leave a comment and let me know!
