Salsa Verde Chicken Recipe: A Zesty and Flavorful Delight
Looking for an easy, flavorful, and healthy dinner idea? Salsa Verde Chicken is the answer! This dish is a perfect blend of tender chicken and the tangy, zesty flavor of salsa verde. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a meal prep option, or something to impress your guests, this recipe ticks all the boxes. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make with minimal ingredients and time.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making Salsa Verde Chicken, share some helpful tips, and provide you with storage ideas and a nutrition breakdown to make it even easier to include this dish in your weekly meal rotation.
Ingredients for Salsa Verde Chicken
This recipe is as simple as it gets—just a few ingredients for a flavorful meal.
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)
- 1 jar (16 oz) salsa verde (green salsa)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for searing)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
For Optional Toppings (to serve):
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Shredded cheese
- Avocado slices
- Lime wedges
Step-by-Step Salsa Verde Chicken Recipe
1. Season and Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with a pinch of salt and pepper. If you want an extra kick of flavor, sprinkle on a packet of taco seasoning. You can use chicken breasts for leaner meat or chicken thighs for a juicier, more tender result.
2. Optional Step: Sear the Chicken (For Extra Flavor)
For an additional layer of flavor, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 2-3 minutes per side, just until they develop a golden brown crust. This step is optional, but it does add a bit of richness to the overall dish.
3. Add the Salsa Verde to the Slow Cooker (or Instant Pot)
If you’re using a slow cooker, place the seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom of the cooker. Pour the entire jar of salsa verde over the chicken. The tangy, herby sauce will infuse into the chicken as it cooks.
If you’re using an Instant Pot, add the salsa verde the same way, but you’ll also need to add 1/2 cup of water or chicken broth for the pressure cooker to function properly.
4. Slow Cook or Pressure Cook
- Slow Cooker: Cook the chicken on low for about 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shred with a fork.
- Instant Pot: Set your Instant Pot to pressure cook on high for 10-12 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally or use quick release, depending on your preference.
5. Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked and tender, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the salsa verde sauce. The chicken will absorb the salsa, creating a flavorful, moist filling.
6. Serve and Garnish
Serve your Salsa Verde Chicken with toppings like fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, avocado, and a squeeze of lime. You can use it for tacos, burrito bowls, or serve it on top of rice or salads.
Recipe Notes
- Make it Spicy: If you want a spicier kick, add some jalapeños or hot sauce to the salsa verde.
- Use chicken thighs for a juicier version of the dish.
- No Slow Cooker? If you don’t have a slow cooker, this recipe can also be made in the oven or stovetop. Simply bake the chicken with salsa at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes, or cook it on the stove in a pan with a lid for a faster option.
- Meal Prep: This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can store shredded Salsa Verde Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Time and Serving
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 6-7 hours on low in the slow cooker or 10-12 minutes in the Instant Pot
- Total time: 6-7 hours (or 1 hour with Instant Pot)
- Servings: 4 servings
Storage and Leftovers
In the fridge: Store any leftover Salsa Verde Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It’s perfect for meal prep or for quick lunches throughout the week.
In the freezer: If you want to freeze the chicken, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, microwave, or in the slow cooker.
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect
- For Extra Tenderness: Let the chicken cook for the full recommended time. The longer it cooks, the more tender it will be.
- Adjust the Salsa Verde: If you prefer a milder flavor, look for a mild salsa verde or adjust the amount to your liking.
- Pairing Ideas: Serve with a side of Mexican rice, black beans, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Make it Creamy: For a creamier version, stir in a bit of sour cream or cream cheese to the shredded chicken after it’s cooked.
How to Serve Salsa Verde Chicken
- Tacos: Serve the chicken in soft tortillas with your favorite taco toppings like avocado, cheese, and cilantro.
- Burrito Bowls: Serve over a bed of rice, beans, and guacamole for a satisfying bowl.
- Salads: Add the chicken on top of a fresh salad with romaine, tomatoes, and a zesty dressing.
- Quesadillas: Spread the chicken between tortillas with some cheese, and cook until crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Final Thoughts
This Salsa Verde Chicken recipe is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to make. It’s the perfect dish for busy nights, meal prep, or a family dinner. With its tangy flavor and simple ingredients, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Enjoy it on tacos, burrito bowls, or any way you like!
