Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken and Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare.
• Versatility: The dish serves as a base for various meals—enjoy it as is, wrap it in tortillas for burritos, or serve it over greens for a hearty salad.
• Meal Prep Friendly: It stores well, making it ideal for preparing in advance and enjoying throughout the week.

Ingredients

• 3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 24 oz salsa (choose your preferred spice level)
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups instant rice
• Optional toppings: cilantro, tortilla chips, shredded cheese, avocado, tortillas

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Gather all necessary ingredients.
2. Combine in Slow Cooker: Place the chicken breasts, salsa, and chicken broth into the slow cooker.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on high for 4 hours.
4. Shred Chicken: After cooking, remove the chicken breasts, shred them using two forks, and return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
5. Add Rice: Switch the slow cooker to the warm setting. Add the instant rice to the mixture, stir well, and let it sit for about 10 minutes until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the flavors.
6. Serve: Stir the mixture to combine thoroughly. Serve hot with your choice of toppings such as cilantro, tortilla chips, shredded cheese, avocado, or wrapped in tortillas.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 4 hours on high setting

Variations

• Spice Level: Adjust the heat by selecting mild, medium, or hot salsa according to your preference.
• Grain Options: While instant rice is convenient, you can substitute it with cooked quinoa or brown rice added at the end for a different texture and nutritional profile.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate diced bell peppers, onions, or corn into the slow cooker for added flavor and nutrients.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, place the cooled dish in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or warm larger quantities on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through.

FAQs

What type of salsa works best for this recipe?

Any jarred salsa of your preferred spice level works well. Chunky salsa adds more texture to the dish.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed before adding to the slow cooker for even cooking.

Is it possible to cook this on low instead of high?

Yes, you can cook on low for 6-8 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Can I use regular rice instead of instant rice?

Instant rice is recommended due to its quick cooking time. Using regular rice may require pre-cooking it before adding to the slow cooker.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

The base recipe is dairy-free. Simply omit any dairy-based toppings like cheese or sour cream.

What other toppings go well with this dish?

Toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, sour cream, or a squeeze of lime juice complement the flavors nicely.

Can I add beans to this recipe?

Yes, adding black beans or pinto beans can enhance the dish’s texture and protein content.

How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?

Add the instant rice after shredding the chicken and keep the slow cooker on warm to prevent overcooking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all ingredients, including the salsa and broth, are certified gluten-free.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

To increase spiciness, use hot salsa and consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken and Rice is a versatile and convenient meal that brings together the robust flavors of salsa, tender chicken, and satisfying rice. Its simplicity and adaptability make it a valuable addition to any meal plan, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. Customize it with your favorite toppings and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal with minimal effort.