Crockpot Salsa Chicken(Lighter Eating - 5 Points)
A flavorful, healthy crockpot dish featuring tender chicken simmered in salsa, corn, and peppers, perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners with a Mexican flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the corn and set the juice aside.
- Spray the crockpot with cooking spray.
- Place chicken breasts on the bottom of the crockpot.
- Pour salsa over the chicken.
- Top with sliced bell pepper.
- Pour the cans of corn on top and add about 1/2 cup of the drained corn juice, adjusting if it looks dry during cooking.
- Cook for 5 hours on low or 1 hour on high and 3 hours on low.
Tips & Substitutions
For a zestier flavor, consider adding a packet of taco seasoning to the salsa. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can stir in a bit of low-fat cream cheese towards the end of cooking. You can substitute black beans for corn for a different twist or use frozen corn if fresh is unavailable. This dish is perfect for meal prep as it holds up well and can easily be incorporated into other dishes like Chickenless Chicken Enchiladas.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the salsa chicken over a bed of rice or with warm tortillas for a hearty meal. It pairs well with a side of black beans and a fresh salad for a complete dinner. You can also use the leftovers in tacos or burrito bowls, making it a versatile option for any meal. This dish complements other Mexican recipes beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. If the dish seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or salsa to keep it moist while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crockpot Salsa Chicken(Lighter Eating - 5 Points) contains roughly 432 calories, with 28g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1247mg per serving (54% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it will require additional cooking time. Ensure they are fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. Cooking from frozen may take about 6-7 hours on low in the crockpot.
What can I substitute for salsa if I don't have any?
If you don't have salsa, you can use diced tomatoes with green chilies or a mixture of tomato sauce with chopped onions, garlic, and spices. This will provide a similar flavor profile to the dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, consider using a spicy salsa or adding jalapeños or diced green chilies to the crockpot. You can also mix in some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to taste before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).