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Easy Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken with Rice

slow cooker salsa chicken with rice - featured image
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A simple, comforting slow cooker recipe combining tender chicken, flavorful salsa, and perfectly cooked rice for an effortless weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds / 680 grams)
  • 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) medium-spiced chunky salsa (e.g., Herdez or Trader Joe’s)
  • 1 cup (190 grams) long grain white rice, rinsed
  • 1 1/4 cups (295 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: pinch of chili powder or smoked paprika
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear and set aside.
  2. Lightly spray the slow cooker insert with non-stick cooking spray.
  3. Place the rinsed rice evenly at the bottom of the slow cooker.
  4. Pour chicken broth over the rice.
  5. Sprinkle ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over the rice and broth. Stir gently to distribute spices.
  6. Season chicken breasts lightly with salt and pepper and place them on top of the rice and broth layer.
  7. Spoon salsa evenly over the chicken breasts without stirring.
  8. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2.5 to 3 hours until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and rice is tender.
  9. Use two forks to shred the chicken in the slow cooker and mix gently with the rice and salsa.
  10. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  11. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Notes

If rice is undercooked after initial cooking, add a splash of broth or water and cook an additional 20-30 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain heat. Use medium-spiced salsa for best flavor balance. Chicken thighs can be substituted for juicier meat. For a dairy-free version, avoid cheese toppings. Brown rice can be used but requires longer cooking time and more liquid.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, salsa chicken, chicken and rice, easy dinner, weeknight meal, crockpot recipe, comfort food, one pot meal

Find it online: https://gleamgulp.com/easy-slow-cooker-salsa-chicken-with-rice-recipe-for-perfect-weeknight-dinner/