Fiesta Chicken Simmer

Fiesta Chicken Simmer

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Recipe Introduction
Fancy Some Fuss-Free Fiesta Chicken?
Ever get that craving for Mexican, but can't be bothered with all the effort? Then listen up ! This crockpot salsa chicken healthy recipe is a game changer.
It is gonna become your new best friend. It's like a holiday in a bowl, bursting with flavor. It's ridiculously easy, and healthy too!
A Whirlwind Tour
This dish takes inspiration from the American Southwest. It is simple to make, and requires minimal effort. Just toss everything in the slow cooker , set it, and forget it! It is perfect for feeding a crowd or just having leftovers for lunch.
This serves about 6.
Health Kick in a Crock
Honestly, what's not to love? It is packed with lean protein from the chicken. It's loaded with fiber from the black beans and corn.
Also, it is relatively low in calories. This makes it a guilt-free pleasure. Serve it up at your next Taco Tuesday.
Or, make a quick and easy salad. This Fiesta Chicken Simmer is seriously special. This is gonna be the recipe you make again and again!
Now, let's talk ingredients. You'll need about 1.5-2 lb of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Don't skimp on the salsa.
Grab your favourite 16 ounce jar. For a healthy chicken recipes crockpot , check the label for added sugar. We want a lean chicken slow cooker meal, right?
Ingredients & Equipment For Crockpot Salsa Chicken Healthy
Ready to dive into making this crockpot salsa chicken healthy wonder? Let's get the lowdown on what you'll need. Don't worry, it's all pretty straightforward! Trust me, you'll be chowing down on this fiesta chicken simmer in no time.
Main Players: Chicken & Salsa
You will need 1.5-2 lb (680-900g) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Opt for organic or free-range if you can – the quality really shines through.
Also, grab a 1 (16 ounce/450g) jar of your favourite salsa. Honestly, the salsa is where you can really play about with flavours.
I once used a mango salsa, and oh my gosh , it was amazing! Just check the sugar content if you're watching your waistline!
Next up, a 1 (15 ounce/425g) can each of black beans and corn. Make sure you rinse and drain those beans well. Frozen corn works perfectly if you don’t have fresh.
Seasoning Sensation
This is where the magic happens! You need 1 tbsp (15ml) chili powder. Don't be shy! It adds a lovely depth.
Also, 1 tsp (5ml) ground cumin, 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) garlic powder and 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) onion powder. You can always tweak these to your liking.
I sometimes add a pinch of smoked paprika for extra oomph. And of course, don’t forget salt and pepper to taste.
A simple, classic low-calorie salsa chicken blend. If you want a bit of heat, throw in a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Thinking of substitutions? You can swap the chili powder for a taco seasoning mix.
Kit-Chen Essentials
For the equipment, keep it simple. First, obviously you need a slow cooker (crockpot). Secondly, a can opener. No need to get fancy here; a basic one does the trick.
Then, you’ll need measuring spoons and cups. I've been known to "eyeball" measurements, but for this, it’s best to be a bit precise.
Lastly, you'll need a fork for shredding the chicken later. A hand mixer works too!
That's all there is to it! Nothing too scary, right? A lot of those can be healthy chicken recipes crockpot, this one it's easy.
Get your ingredients prepped, and you're halfway to enjoying this easy crockpot chicken dinner . Honestly, it’s so simple, it’s practically foolproof.
Fiesta Chicken Simmer: Your Crockpot Salsa Chicken Healthy Shortcut
Fancy some Crockpot salsa chicken healthy tonight? This fiesta chicken simmer recipe is a game changer! It's honestly so simple, even I can't mess it up.
And trust me, I've had my fair share of kitchen catastrophes. Slow cooker salsa chicken never tasted so good. And it's super good for you too!
Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place Magic
First, let's get prepped. That means "everything in its place," the French call it. Grab your 1.5-2 lbs chicken breasts .
Open your 16-ounce jar of salsa - I swear by the chunky kind. Get those black beans and corn drained and ready.
Finally, measure out your spices: 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, ½ tsp garlic powder, ¼ tsp onion powder .
Sorted! You'll be chuffed you did all this first.
Step-by-Step: Easy Crockpot Salsa Chicken Healthy
- Grease the slow cooker. A little cooking spray does the trick.
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Pour salsa over chicken. Then sprinkle all the spices.
- Cover and cook on Low for 4- 6 hours or High for 2- 3 hours . The chicken is done when it shreds easily and hits an internal temp of 165° F ( 74° C) .
- Shred chicken with two forks.
- Add beans and corn.
- Heat for another 15- 30 minutes to warm them through.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings!
Pro Tips for a Top Notch Dish
Honestly, don't overcook the chicken! It gets dry and nobody wants that. Experiment with different salsas! Mild, medium, or hot – your choice.
I love adding a dollop of Greek yogurt at the end. It makes it creamy and extra delicious. It keeps this healthy chicken recipes crockpot so good! Chicken breast salsa recipe at its finest.
And there you have it! Low-calorie salsa chicken that's quick, easy, and tastes amazing. Perfect for tacos, salads, or just shoveling straight from the bowl.
What are you waiting for? Give crockpot chicken black beans corn a try.
Recipe Notes for Crockpot Salsa Chicken Healthy
Alright, so you're about to dive into making crockpot salsa chicken healthy . Ace! Before you get started, here are a few things I've learned along the way – bits and bobs that'll help you nail it.
Honestly, these tips are golden. Trust me!
Serving Up a Fiesta!
Plating and presentation ideas: Okay, so we've got this amazing slow cooker salsa chicken . Now what? Think tacos, salads, or even piled high on nachos.
For a pretty plate, try sprinkling fresh cilantro on top. A dollop of Greek yogurt adds a nice creamy contrast.
Complementary sides or beverages: This fiesta chicken simmer is great with rice and beans. Fancy a drink? A light beer or a refreshing margarita would be brilliant.
If you want something non-alcoholic, try sparkling water with a lime wedge.
Storing Your Leftovers (If There Are Any!)
Refrigeration guidelines: Pop any leftover crockpot salsa chicken into an airtight container. It'll keep happily in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This makes it perfect for meal prepping.
Freezing options (if applicable): This recipe freezes like a dream. Portion it out into freezer bags or containers. It'll be good for up to 2-3 months.
Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating instructions: You can microwave it, but honestly, it's better reheated in a pan on the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken broth if it seems a bit dry.
You want that internal temperature to hit 165° F ( 74° C) .
Spice Things Up: Variations
Dietary adaptations: Watching your salt? Use a low-sodium salsa and rinse those black beans really well. This lean chicken slow cooker recipe is already pretty healthy, but you can always make it even better.
Seasonal ingredient swaps: In the summer, chuck in some fresh, sweet corn straight off the cob. During the autumn, roasted butternut squash would be fantastic.
Using seasonal ingredients makes everything taste even better.
Nutrition Lowdown
Simplified nutrition information: This crockpot salsa chicken healthy is packed with protein and relatively low in fat. Each serving gives you around 35g of protein.
Key health benefits: Chicken is a great source of lean protein. Black beans add fibre, which is amazing for your gut. This easy crockpot chicken dinner is filling and nutritious. You're winning!
So, there you have it! A few extra pointers to make your crockpot salsa chicken healthy experience even better. Now go get cooking and enjoy every single bite! You've got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this crockpot salsa chicken healthy? I'm trying to eat better, you know?
Absolutely! This crockpot salsa chicken recipe is designed to be a healthier option. It uses lean chicken breasts as its protein base, and you can control the sodium and sugar content by choosing a salsa with lower amounts of these. It's a great way to enjoy a flavourful meal without all the guilt – a total win-win situation, right?
Can I make the crockpot salsa chicken ahead of time? I'm always rushed off my feet during the week!
You certainly can! This is a fantastic meal prepping option. Once cooked, let the salsa chicken cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage (up to 2-3 months). Just remember to thaw it properly before reheating. It is like having a lovely takeaway, but without the extra fat, calories and preservatives.
My salsa chicken is a bit watery. How can I thicken it up?
No worries, that can happen! There are a few tricks you can use. First, remove the lid for the last 30-60 minutes of cooking on high to allow some of the excess liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the salsa chicken during the last 15 minutes of cooking. Don't overdo it, you want a nice sauce, not wallpaper paste!
What are some good things to serve with this crockpot salsa chicken? I'm looking for some inspiration!
The possibilities are endless! This salsa chicken is incredibly versatile. You can serve it in tacos or burritos, over rice or quinoa, or even on top of a salad. For a low-carb option, try serving it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado, and a dollop of Greek yogurt for a complete and satisfying meal, Bob's your uncle.
I want to add more veggies to my crockpot salsa chicken healthy recipe. What are the best options?
Great idea! Adding extra veggies is a fantastic way to boost the nutritional value of this dish. Bell peppers (any colour), diced zucchini, onions, and even spinach wilted in during the last 30 minutes all work wonderfully. You could also stir in some chopped tomatoes, mushrooms, or even some pre-cooked butternut squash for a bit of sweetness. Get creative and use what you have on hand!
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts in my crockpot salsa chicken healthy recipe?
You certainly can! Chicken thighs will result in a richer, more flavourful dish, as they contain more fat. However, keep in mind that this will also increase the overall fat content of the meal. If you're aiming for a leaner option, stick with chicken breasts. Just be sure to remove any excess skin before cooking. It really is up to you. Happy cooking!