Name: Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken Tortilla Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 120 min
Total time: 135 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless chicken breasts or thighs; 1 tablespoon taco seasoning; 2 cups chunky red salsa; 2 cups salsa verde; 1/4 cup hot sauce; 4 tablespoons salted butter; salt and black pepper; rice and tortilla chips; shredded lettuce, avocado, limes, and green onions; 1/2 cup mayo; 1 big cup fresh cilantro; 1 clove garlic; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 2 teaspoons honey

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There’s nothing like coming home to the warm, savory smell of Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken Tortilla Bowl wafting through the house after a long day. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a rainy Saturday afternoon, and I wanted something comforting yet easy to prepare. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way it brings the family together. With just a few ingredients, I was able to whip up a satisfying meal that everyone loved. As the chicken cooked slowly in the crockpot, absorbing all the delicious spices and salsas, the anticipation grew. By mealtime, we gathered around the table, each person crafting their own bowl, adding their favorite toppings. That sense of togetherness is what makes this dish truly special.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
2 hr 15 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
120 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
45 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Slow Cooker, Wooden Spoon, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Food Processor, Oven, Blender

Why We Love This Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken Tortilla Bowl

1. Effortless Preparation

One of the things I love most about Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken Tortilla Bowl is how easy it is to prepare. Just toss the ingredients into your crockpot, set it, and forget it! This makes it perfect for busy weekdays when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

2. Versatile Toppings

This recipe allows for a lot of creativity with toppings. You can customize each bowl according to your preferences! Want some creamy avocado, crunchy lettuce, or zesty lime? Go for it! Each person can build their own perfect bowl, making mealtime more enjoyable.

3. Flavor Explosion

The combination of spices and salsas creates an explosion of flavors that dance on your palate. The slow cooking process melds all the ingredients beautifully, ensuring that every bite is packed with taste. You won’t just be eating; you’ll be savoring a delightful experience with each mouthful.

4. Family-Friendly

This dish has something for everyone, making it a hit with both kids and adults. The tender, shredded chicken is mild and can be spiced up with additional hot sauce for those who enjoy a kick. It’s a meal the whole family can enjoy together!

5. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or even a potluck, this Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken Tortilla Bowl is a fantastic choice. It’s easy to scale up for larger groups, and everyone appreciates a hearty, home-cooked meal.

6. Great Leftovers

Leftovers? Yes, please! The flavors only get better with time, making this dish perfect for meal prep. You can easily store portions in the fridge for later, making your week a little easier.

What Goes Into Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken Tortilla Bowl

When it comes to making the perfect Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken Tortilla Bowl, the ingredients are key. Each component plays a vital role in creating a delicious, satisfying meal. The star of the show is, of course, the chicken, which becomes tender and flavorful as it simmers with the zesty salsa and spices. Each ingredient enhances the other, creating a symphony of taste that you’ll crave time and again.

2 pounds boneless chicken breasts or thighs: The foundation of this dish, providing protein and heartiness. They become incredibly tender when cooked in the crockpot.
1 tablespoon taco seasoning: A blend of spices that adds depth and flavor to the chicken.
2 cups chunky red salsa: Adds a fresh, tangy flavor and a hint of spice.
2 cups salsa verde: The green salsa brings a vibrant, zesty kick that perfectly complements the chicken.
1/4 cup hot sauce: For those who like it spicy, this ingredient takes it up a notch!
4 tablespoons salted butter: Adds richness and a silky texture to the sauce.
salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.
rice and tortilla chips: The perfect base for your bowl and adds crunch to every bite.
shredded lettuce, avocado, limes, and green onions: Fresh toppings that add texture and flavor.
1/2 cup mayo: Used in the creamy sauce that adds smoothness.
1 big cup fresh cilantro: A garnish that brightens up the dish.
1 clove garlic: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
2 tablespoons lime juice: Adds acidity and freshness to the sauce.
2 teaspoons honey: A touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.

Cooking Method for Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken Tortilla Bowl

The cooking process for the Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken Tortilla Bowl is as easy as it gets! You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can bring it all together. Here’s how you can create this delicious dish step by step.

In the bottom of the crockpot bowl, mix the chicken, red salsa, salsa verde, hot sauce, taco seasoning, butter, and 1/2 cup of water. Season well with salt and pepper. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours or on HIGH for 2 hours. The chicken should be incredibly tender by the end of the cooking time.
After the cooking time, carefully remove the lid and stir the chicken until it falls apart and shreds. Make sure to season with some additional salt to taste. It should look juicy and well-coated with the salsas.
To make the sauce, add the cilantro, garlic, and lime juice to a blender or food processor. Pulse until everything is nicely chopped. This mixture should be vibrant and fragrant.
Stir in the mayo and honey into the chopped mixture, ensuring it becomes creamy. Season with salt to enhance the flavor.
For serving, add a big handful of lettuce or cabbage to a bowl. Spoon over some cooked rice as a base. The rice will soak up all the delicious juices from the chicken.
Next, add a couple of spoonfuls of shredded chicken on top of the rice. It should be generous and heaped for a hearty serving.
On the side, add some tortilla chips for crunch. This contrast will make each bite exciting.
Finish with fresh toppings like avocado, onions, and a good sprinkle of the cilantro lime sauce. This brings the dish to life with freshness and color.
Enjoy every bite of your homemade Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken Tortilla Bowl. It’s a meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Things Worth Knowing

Slow Cooking: The slower you cook, the more flavors meld. It’s worth sticking to low heat for that tender chicken.
Texture Matters: Be mindful of the chicken texture; it should shred easily without much effort.
Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs like cilantro should be added at the end for the best flavor.
Layering Flavors: Season your layers as you go for a well-rounded taste.

Customization Ideas

The Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken Tortilla Bowl is incredibly versatile. Here are some fun ways to customize your dish!

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the chicken mixture in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Just thaw and reheat!
Pairing: Serve it with a side of black beans or some corn salad for a complete meal.
Spice it Up: Add more hot sauce if you like it spicy, or toss in some diced jalapeños!
Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for jackfruit or mushrooms for a vegetarian alternative.
Flavor Boost: Add some smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
Extra Creamy: Mix in some cream cheese for a richer sauce.

Accompaniments for Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken Tortilla Bowl

Serving the Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken Tortilla Bowl is just as fun as making it! Here are some great ideas to complement your dish:

Rice: Serve over fluffy white rice or brown rice for a whole grain option.
Tortilla Chips: These add a delightful crunch and are perfect for scooping up all the goodness.
Side Salads: A crisp garden salad or Mexican street corn salad pairs beautifully.
Occasions: Perfect for casual weeknight dinners, game day gatherings, or family celebrations.
Seasonal Pairing: Great for summer barbecues or cozy winter evenings!
Leftovers: Reheat the next day for an easy lunch. It tastes even better as the flavors develop!

FAQ

Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken in the Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken Tortilla Bowl. Just keep in mind that you may need to increase the cooking time slightly, especially if you’re using a lower setting. The slow cooker will do a fantastic job of defrosting and cooking the chicken thoroughly. Just ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

This Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken Tortilla Bowl can be served with a variety of sides! Rice is a classic pairing, and you can choose between white, brown, or even quinoa. Tortilla chips add a wonderful crunch and can be used to scoop up all the flavorful ingredients. Additionally, a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables would complement the dish nicely!

To store leftovers of your Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken Tortilla Bowl, refrigerate them in an airtight container. They will last for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You can also freeze the mixture for up to two months, making it a great option for meal prep.

Yes! If you love spice, you can easily elevate the heat level of your Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken Tortilla Bowl. Consider adding extra hot sauce to the mixture or mixing in diced jalapeños before cooking. Additionally, you could top the finished bowls with fresh sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

Conclusion

The Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken Tortilla Bowl is a comforting and flavorful dish that is sure to become a family favorite. With its easy preparation, customizable toppings, and rich flavors, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion. I encourage you to give it a try, and I promise it will not disappoint. Gather your ingredients and get ready for a culinary experience that warms the heart and satisfies the taste buds.