Bookmark
This Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a healthy, super flavorful meal with zero fuss. It uses simple pantry staples and comes together with a quick dump and go method. Best of all it is Weight Watchers friendly at zero points, making it a guilt-free favorite in our household.
Our family fell in love with this during a hectic week of backtoback activities. Now it's a regular because everyone asks for it often and I love how easy cleanup is.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Lean protein and filling texture. Choose fresh or thawed fully if frozen.
- Taco seasoning: Adds authentic Mexican flair. Opt for reduced sodium to keep salt in check.
- Canned black beans: Bring fiber and bulk plus that classic southwestern taste. Rinse and drain well to avoid excess sodium.
- Canned corn: For sweetness color and insoluble fiber. Fresh or frozen works if defrosted.
- Salsa: Serves as the flavorful sauce base. Pick your heat level from mild to hot depending on family preference.
- Small onion: Chopped adds subtle sweetness and depth. Choose a firm fresh onion with no sprouting.
- Fresh cilantro: Chopped for a bright herby finish. If fresh is unavailable dried cilantro can be used but fresh really elevates the dish with its burst of brightness.
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients:
- Place chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Add drained black beans and corn next. Pour in salsa. Sprinkle taco seasoning evenly over the top. Add the chopped onion and cilantro. Make sure beans and corn are thoroughly rinsed and drained to keep the dish from being watery.
- Mix well:
- Using a large spoon carefully stir to combine all ingredients. The chicken will be submerged and surrounded by the flavorful salsa taco blend.
- Cook low and slow:
- Cover slow cooker and cook on low for about 5 to 6 hours. Cooking time can vary depending on your slow cooker. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit or 74 degrees Celsius.
- Serve:
- Remove chicken from the crockpot and shred it if you like or leave in breasts. Serve over rice or cauliflower rice. For tacos use a slotted spoon to avoid too much liquid. Add optional toppings such as fatfree sour cream fatfree shredded cheddar cheese and extra fresh cilantro. Adjust Weight Watchers points accordingly if adding extras. Regular hard or soft taco shells work well and kids usually love this meal even before knowing it is WW friendly.
My favorite part of this recipe is the fresh cilantro. It brightens the dish and adds that unmistakable Mexican flavor. I remember the first time I made it my kids were so skeptical about it being Weight Watchers friendly and ended up requesting it weekly after their first bite.
Storage tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. It reheats well in the microwave or on the stove. This recipe also freezes beautifully for up to three months. Freeze in individual portions for easy thaw and go meals during a busy week.
Ingredient substitutions
Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier result but note they add more Weight Watchers points. Try different beans like pinto or cannellini for a variation in flavor and texture. If fresh cilantro is unavailable or you dislike it swap with parsley Thai basil or dill but note this changes the traditional Mexican profile. Use any salsa you prefer try homemade Pico de Gallo to make it extra fresh and bright.
Serving suggestions
Serve over rice or cauliflower rice for lowcarb options. Use as taco filling with lowcarb tortillas or regular taco shells. Top with fatfree shredded cheese and sour cream to keep it WW friendly. Pair with homemade pico de gallo or a creamy avocado dip made with Greek yogurt for contrast in flavor and texture.
This slow cooker Mexican chicken is an easy, healthy family favorite that also makes meal prep simple. It freezes well and is adaptable to your spice preference.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be substituted, though they may add slightly more richness and calories.
- → Is it necessary to rinse the beans and corn before adding?
Rinsing canned beans and corn removes excess sodium and starch for a cleaner flavor in the slow cooker.
- → How spicy is the dish and can I adjust it?
The spiciness depends on the salsa used; you can choose mild, medium, or hot varieties to suit your taste.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
This chicken complements rice, cauliflower rice, low-carb tortillas, or fresh pico de gallo for a balanced meal.
- → Can leftovers be stored and reheated safely?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months.