If you’re looking for a meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious, you’ve stumbled upon a gem! This Easiest Salsa Verde Chicken (Slow cooker or Instant Pot) is a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. With minimal ingredients and a hands-off cooking method, you’ll have tender, flavorful chicken ready to enjoy in no time. Whether you serve it over rice, in tacos, or on a salad, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

Easiest Salsa Verde Chicken (Slow cooker or Instant Pot) stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly simple to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients. Second, the slow cooking or Instant Pot method ensures that the chicken remains moist and infused with flavor. Finally, you can easily adjust the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. It’s a versatile dish that can fit seamlessly into any meal plan.

What Goes Into Easiest Salsa Verde Chicken (Slow cooker or Instant Pot)

To make this delightful dish, you’ll need just a few key ingredients:

1 1/2 lbs raw skinless chicken tenders or chicken breast
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/8 tsp oregano
1/8 tsp ground cumin
Salt, to taste
16 oz roasted salsa verde (check labels for Whole 30 compliance)

These simple ingredients come together to create a flavorful and satisfying meal that you can feel good about serving.

Tools & Equipment Needed

To whip up this delicious Easiest Salsa Verde Chicken (Slow cooker or Instant Pot), you’ll need:

Slow Cooker or Instant Pot: The key appliance to cook your chicken to perfection.
Measuring spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
Fork or tongs: For shredding the chicken after cooking.
Serving dishes: To present your finished dish beautifully.

Having these tools on hand will ensure a smooth cooking process.

Make Easiest Salsa Verde Chicken (Slow cooker or Instant Pot): A Simple Method

Ready to dive into the cooking process? Follow these easy steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the raw skinless chicken tenders or chicken breast into your slow cooker or Instant Pot.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Sprinkle the garlic powder, oregano, ground cumin, and salt over the chicken. These spices will elevate the flavor of your dish.

Step 3: Add Salsa Verde

Pour the roasted salsa verde over the seasoned chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. The salsa is the star of this dish, providing tangy and spicy notes.

Step 4: Cook

– For the slow cooker: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
– For the Instant Pot: Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then allow for natural release.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, use a fork or tongs to shred the chicken directly in the pot. Mix it well with the salsa to combine flavors.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Easiest Salsa Verde Chicken (Slow cooker or Instant Pot) over rice, in tacos, or on top of a salad. The possibilities are endless!

Seasonal Spins

This dish is versatile enough to accommodate seasonal ingredients or variations:

Spring: Add fresh spinach or arugula for a burst of color and nutrition.
Summer: Serve with fresh corn or pico de gallo to brighten the flavors.
Fall: Incorporate pumpkin or butternut squash for a heartier meal.
Winter: Pair with roasted root vegetables for a comforting dish.

Feel free to get creative based on what’s in season!

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

When preparing Easiest Salsa Verde Chicken (Slow cooker or Instant Pot), keep these tips in mind:

Make sure your salsa verde is compliant with your dietary needs, especially if you’re following a specific plan.
Don’t skip the seasoning; it’s essential for flavor!
If using frozen chicken, increase the cooking time slightly, especially in the Instant Pot.
Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before shredding to keep it juicy.

These small details can make a big difference in your final dish.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

This Easiest Salsa Verde Chicken (Slow cooker or Instant Pot) is perfect for leftovers!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
This chicken freezes well, so feel free to portion it out and freeze for later meals.
Use the chicken in various dishes throughout the week, such as in Creamy Pesto Chicken Lasagna With Spinach or Creamy Tomato Basil Tortelloni With Chicken Sausage Turkey.

Meal prep has never been easier with this recipe!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Just increase the cooking time slightly, especially in the Instant Pot, to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

Can I make this dish without a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Absolutely! You can bake it in the oven at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

What can I serve with salsa verde chicken?

This chicken pairs well with rice, tortillas, salads, or even as a filling for enchiladas. The options are endless!

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

If you’re looking for more quick and delicious recipes, consider these options:

These recipes will keep your weeknight dinners exciting and stress-free!

Final Bite

With its straightforward preparation and deliciously bold flavors, the Easiest Salsa Verde Chicken (Slow cooker or Instant Pot) is bound to become a fixture in your meal planning arsenal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe checks all the boxes: simple, tasty, and versatile. So gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking – you won’t regret it!