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Easy One-Pot Crockpot Salsa Chicken with Rice

crockpot salsa chicken with rice - featured image
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A convenient and flavorful slow cooker meal featuring tender shredded chicken and fluffy long-grain white rice cooked in a zesty salsa sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 to 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
  • 1 jar (16 oz) medium or mild salsa
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded Mexican blend or cheddar cheese
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Lime wedges for serving
  • Sliced avocado for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse chicken breasts and pat dry. Place chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker.
  2. Rinse the long-grain white rice under cold water until water runs clear to remove excess starch.
  3. Add the rinsed rice directly on top of the chicken.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and the entire jar of salsa.
  5. Sprinkle cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over the top. Do not stir yet.
  6. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours (or HIGH for 3 to 4 hours).
  7. Remove chicken from the pot and shred into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
  8. Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir everything together gently.
  9. If rice is not tender, add a little more broth and cook for another 30 minutes.
  10. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, cover, and let sit on ‘Warm’ for 5-10 minutes until melted.
  11. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime before serving.

Notes

Rinsing the rice is non-negotiable to prevent mushiness. Do not open the lid frequently during cooking. Adjust liquid for high altitude. Taste salsa before adding salt as sodium levels vary. Chicken thighs can be substituted for breasts.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot, slow cooker, salsa chicken, one pot meal, easy dinner, chicken and rice, meal prep, gluten-free

Find it online: https://lindabake.com/easy-one-pot-crockpot-salsa-chicken-with-rice/