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Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken Bowls

Mexican

Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken Bowls

Tender salsa-seasoned chicken, black beans, corn, and fluffy rice come together in these easy slow cooker bowls. With just a few minutes of prep, this is a flavorful, budget-friendly dinner that works especially well for busy weeknights and meal prep.

Recipe by Core Pantry Kitchen

Prep
15 min
Cook
240 min
Total
255 min
Servings
6
Difficulty
easy
Cuisine
Mexican

Estimated per serving · 536 cal · 49g protein · 50g carbs · 15g fat

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Equipment Needed

  • 5- to 6-quart slow cooker

Ingredients

  • 2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 cups chunky salsa
  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 1/2 cups frozen corn
  • 3 cups cooked rice
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican-blend cheese
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker.

  2. In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

  3. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.

  4. Pour the salsa over the chicken, making sure most of the chicken is covered.

  5. Cover and cook on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, or until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

  6. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board or large plate and shred it using two forks.

  7. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it into the salsa and cooking juices.

  8. Add the black beans and frozen corn. Cover and cook for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until everything is heated through.

  9. Divide the cooked rice among six bowls.

  10. Spoon the salsa chicken mixture over the rice.

  11. Top each bowl with shredded cheese, diced avocado, Greek yogurt, cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime.

  12. Serve immediately while warm.

Recipe Notes

Make Ahead

For a lower-effort meal, prepare the rice ahead of time and refrigerate it until needed.

Storage & Reheating

For meal prep, divide the rice and chicken mixture among airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat the cooked rice and chicken mixture to 165°F (74°C) before serving. Keep avocado, yogurt, and fresh toppings separate until serving.

Freezer

The cooked salsa chicken mixture can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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