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Southwest Chicken Crockpot

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Southwest Chicken Crockpot is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy days. With tender, shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and a medley of spices, this one-pot meal is packed with protein and vibrant flavors. Whether served in tacos, over rice, or as a salad topping, this crockpot recipe is versatile, satisfying, and great for meal prep!

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breasts or thighs (boneless, skinless)

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (7 oz) diced green chilies

1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp chili powder

1 tsp cumin

1/2 tsp paprika

1/2 tsp oregano

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Juice of 1 lime (optional, for added zest)

Instructions

  1. Place chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker.

  2. Add diced tomatoes, black beans, green chilies, corn, onion, and garlic to the crockpot.

  3. Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) over the ingredients.

  4. Stir everything together to combine and coat the chicken in the spices.

  5. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and shreds easily with a fork.

  6. Once the chicken is done, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the slow cooker and mix it with the flavorful sauce.

  7. Optionally, stir in lime juice for added brightness and garnish with fresh cilantro.

  8. Serve over rice, in tacos, in burritos, or on a salad.

Notes

  • Variations: Add more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition. For a spicier kick, include diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.

  • Swap Protein: Use turkey breast, shredded beef, or even tofu for a different protein option.

  • Cheese Option: For a cheesy twist, add shredded cheese to the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

  • Make it a Soup: Add some chicken broth to turn it into a southwest-style chicken soup.