Pin it
This Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken is the perfect recipe when you want something healthy, simple, and fuss free. It uses ingredients you likely have in your pantry and requires no precooking, just toss everything into the slow cooker and walk away. It is also Weight Watchers friendly with zero points, so you can enjoy a flavorful meal without any guilt.
I first made this during a busy week when I needed a hands off dinner that still felt special. It quickly became a family favorite and a go to recipe whenever I want a filling, healthy meal with zero hassle.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: choose boneless and skinless for lean protein that cooks evenly
- Black beans: rinsed and drained to add fiber and substance canned works great
- Corn: rinsed and drained canned corn adds sweetness and texture fresh or frozen thawed also work well
- Salsa: I use medium Pace Picante for flavor and a little spice but use mild or hot to suit your taste
- Taco seasoning: reduced sodium if possible to keep salt in check and enhance Mexican flavors
- Onion: finely chopped adds savory depth and texture to the dish
- Fresh cilantro: chopped for a burst of freshness and color opt for bright green leaves without spots
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients:
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. Rinse and drain the canned black beans and corn before adding them in. Add the chopped onion, salsa, taco seasoning, and cilantro on top.
- Mix Everything Gently:
- Using a spoon, stir all the ingredients together gently to combine and distribute the spices and salsa evenly without breaking up the chicken breasts if left whole.
- Slow Cook:
- Cover and cook on the low setting for about 5 to 6 hours. Cooking times can vary depending on your slow cooker model. Use an instant read thermometer to check the chicken is fully cooked at 165 degrees Fahrenheit or 74 degrees Celsius.
- Serve:
- Serve the chicken mixture over rice or cauliflower rice or use it as a filling for tacos with low carb tortillas. You can top with fat free shredded cheddar cheese, fat free sour cream, and extra fresh cilantro if you like. Use a slotted spoon or strainer to remove excess liquid if serving in tacos to prevent soggy shells.
Pin it
I love how the black beans add a creamy texture and the salsa adds just the right amount of spice without overpowering. One memorable moment was when I brought this dish to a potluck, and no one guessed it was a Weight Watchers recipe. It disappeared in minutes!
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This dish reheats very well whether in the microwave or on the stove. For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap canned black beans for pinto or cannellini beans depending on preference or what you have at hand. Fresh or frozen corn can replace canned corn if you prefer just rinse fresh corn well before adding. Chicken thighs also work but will increase the Weight Watchers points. Salsa can be homemade Pico de Gallo for a fresher taste or use your favorite store bought variety for convenience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve as a taco filling with low carb tortillas or soft taco shells for family friendly meals. It also works beautifully spooned over fluffy rice or cauliflower rice for a lower carb option. Top with fat free sour cream, shredded fat free cheddar, avocado slices, or fresh lime wedges for added flavor and texture variety.
Pin it
This slow cooker Mexican chicken is an easy healthy weeknight meal that is versatile and family friendly. It makes great leftovers and is perfect for meal prep.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → What type of chicken is best for this dish?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are preferred for lean protein and even cooking, but boneless thighs can be used for a richer texture.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, the spice level can be modified by choosing mild, medium, or hot salsa and taco seasoning according to taste preferences.
- → How do I prepare the black beans and corn?
Drain and rinse canned black beans and corn before adding them to the slow cooker to remove excess sodium and maintain texture.
- → Can fresh or frozen corn be used?
Both fresh and frozen corn work well in this dish; just ensure frozen corn is thawed before adding to the slow cooker.
- → What are good serving suggestions?
Serve over rice, cauliflower rice, or use as a filling for tacos with toppings like fat-free cheddar, sour cream, and fresh cilantro.