Welcome to the world of slow cooking, where flavors meld together beautifully over hours of low heat. This slow cooker salsa chicken with black beans and corn is a perfect example. It's an easy and delicious dish that lets the slow cooker do most of the work for you. The result is tender, flavorful chicken in a rich, spicy salsa, complemented by hearty black beans and sweet corn.
Most of the ingredients required for this dish are probably already in your pantry. Black beans and corn can be found in a can, but you could also use fresh or frozen if you prefer. The recipe calls for adobo seasoning, which is a blend of paprika, oregano, salt, garlic, and vinegar. It's commonly used in Latin American cooking, so you might need to visit a specialized section of your supermarket or a Latin American store to get it. If you can't find it, you can make your own or use a combination of the other spices in this recipe.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken with Black Beans and Corn
Corn: A staple in many Latin American dishes, it adds a sweet contrast to the spicy salsa.
Black beans: They give the dish its hearty, filling quality. If you're using canned, make sure to rinse them well to reduce sodium content.
Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for best results. They'll become incredibly tender after slow cooking.
Adobo seasoning: This gives the chicken its savory, smoky flavor.
Ground cumin: A warm, earthy spice that pairs well with the other flavors in this dish.
Garlic powder: A convenient way to add the savory depth of garlic.
Salsa: It's the heart of this dish. Use your favorite brand or make your own.
Cheddar: Adds a creamy, cheesy element that helps balance the dish's spiciness.
Cilantro: It gives a fresh, zesty finish. You can use parsley if you're not a fan of cilantro.
Avocado: Adds a creamy, healthy fat and complements the other flavors.
Brown rice: A healthier option than white rice, it gives the dish a nutty, chewy texture.
One reader, Birch Stutzman says:
This slow cooker salsa chicken with black beans and corn recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are incredible, and it's so easy to make. The chicken turns out tender and juicy, and the combination of salsa, beans, and corn is simply delicious. It's become a family favorite in our household!
Techniques Required for Making Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken
How to season the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with adobo seasoning, ground cumin, and garlic powder to add flavor before placing them in the slow cooker.
How to garnish with cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the finished dish to add a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor.
How to serve over rice or cauliflower rice: Transfer the cooked chicken and vegetables with a slotted spoon and serve them over a bed of brown rice or cauliflower rice for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
How To Make Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken with Black Beans and Corn
With only 5 minutes of prep time, this slow-cooked salsa chicken is the perfect set-and-forget meal. Beans, corn, salsa, and cheese complete the dish.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2cupscorn,fresh or frozen
- 15ozblack beans,rinsed and drained
- 2chicken breasts,(16 oz), boneless skinless halved lengthwise
- ½tspadobo seasoning,or salt, to taste
- ¾tspground cumin
- ¼tspgarlic powder
- 1¼cupssalsa,chunky, mild
- 1cupcheddar,shredded, reduced fat
- cilantro,chopped for garnish
- avocado,for serving, optional
- brown rice,for serving, optional
Instructions
-
Combine corn and beans and put them in the slow cooker.
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Season the chicken with adobo (or salt), garlic powder and cumin then place in the slow cooker and top with salsa.
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Cover and cook on Low for 6 hours.
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Top with cheese, cover and cook for about 5 minutes, until melted. Garnish with cilantro.
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To serve, transfer the chicken and vegetables with a slotted spoon and serve over rice or cauliflower rice.
Nutrition
- Calories: 735.62kcal
- Fat: 21.96g
- Saturated Fat: 9.37g
- Trans Fat: 0.49g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 6.64g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.29g
- Carbohydrates: 86.33g
- Fiber: 19.58g
- Sugar: 10.14g
- Protein: 52.86g
- Cholesterol: 89.34mg
- Sodium: 858.91mg
- Calcium: 397.15mg
- Potassium: 2250.86mg
- Iron: 7.14mg
- Vitamin A: 147.03µg
- Vitamin C: 7.56mg
Technique Tip for Enhancing Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken
When cooking with a slow cooker, it's important to layer your ingredients correctly. In this slow cooker salsa chicken with black beans and corn recipe, the corn and beans are added first to ensure they are fully cooked and tender. The chicken breasts are then placed on top so they can cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the adobo seasoning, garlic powder, cumin, and salsa. Adding the cheddar cheese towards the end of the cooking process prevents it from overcooking and becoming rubbery. Remember, slow cookers work by trapping heat and cooking food over a long period, so layering ingredients from hardest to softest (or longest to shortest cooking time) can help ensure everything is cooked to perfection.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and season the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Use canned: Utilize canned black beans and corn to skip the prep work and save time.
Double batch: Make a larger quantity and freeze the extra for a quick and easy meal on another day.
Slow cooker liners: Use slow cooker liners for easy cleanup and less time spent on washing dishes.
Multitask: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the rice or other side dishes to save time in the kitchen.
Invest in a good slow cooker: A quality slow cooker with a timer and multiple settings can save time and effort in the long run.
Pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheese to eliminate the need for grating, saving time and effort.
Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken with Black Beans and Corn Recipe
corn - Substitute with peas: Peas can provide a similar sweet and starchy flavor to the dish, while also adding a pop of color and texture.
black beans - Substitute with kidney beans: Kidney beans have a similar creamy texture and earthy flavor, making them a suitable replacement for black beans in this recipe.
chicken breasts - Substitute with pork loin: Pork loin can be used as a substitute for chicken breasts, providing a tender and juicy protein option for the slow cooker recipe.
adobo seasoning - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can add a similar smoky and slightly spicy flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall depth of the seasoning.
ground cumin - Substitute with coriander: Coriander can offer a warm and citrusy flavor, similar to cumin, and can complement the other ingredients in the recipe.
garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can provide a savory and aromatic flavor, similar to garlic powder, without the pungency of fresh garlic.
salsa - Substitute with diced tomatoes with green chilies: Diced tomatoes with green chilies can replicate the tangy and spicy elements of salsa, adding a burst of flavor to the dish.
cheddar - Substitute with monterey jack: Monterey jack cheese can be used as a substitute for cheddar, offering a mild and creamy flavor that melts beautifully over the dish.
cilantro - Substitute with flat-leaf parsley: Flat-leaf parsley can provide a fresh and herbaceous element to the dish, similar to cilantro, without the distinctive citrus notes.
avocado - Substitute with guacamole: Guacamole can be used as a substitute for avocado, offering a creamy and flavorful addition to the dish, while also providing a similar texture.
brown rice - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa can be used as a nutritious alternative to brown rice, offering a nutty flavor and a slightly chewy texture to the dish.
Presentation Tips for Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken
Elevate the plating: Arrange the slow cooker salsa chicken with black beans and corn in a visually appealing manner, ensuring that each component is showcased beautifully on the plate.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Integrate colorful elements such as fresh cilantro and ripe avocado to add a pop of color to the dish, creating an enticing visual presentation.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each ingredient, ensuring that the dish is meticulously arranged to showcase the textures and flavors of the slow cooker salsa chicken with black beans and corn.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate, allowing the dish to stand out and be the focal point of the presentation.
Garnish with finesse: Add a final touch of sophistication by delicately garnishing the dish with finely chopped cilantro and perfectly sliced avocado, enhancing the overall visual appeal.
Essential Tools for Making Salsa Chicken with Black Beans and Corn
- Slow cooker: A countertop electrical cooking appliance that allows for long, slow cooking at low temperatures, perfect for tenderizing meats and developing rich flavors.
- Slotted spoon: A spoon with slots or holes that allow liquids to drain away when serving solid foods from liquid.
- Mixing bowl: A deep bowl used for mixing ingredients, often made of glass, ceramic, or stainless steel.
- Cutting board: A durable board used for cutting and preparing ingredients, typically made of wood, plastic, or bamboo.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential tools for accurately measuring ingredients in cooking and baking.
- Cheese grater: A kitchen tool used to grate cheese into fine pieces for melting or garnishing dishes.
- Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle and a lid, used for cooking sauces, boiling liquids, or reheating food.
- Rice cooker: An electric kitchen appliance used to cook rice automatically, ensuring perfectly cooked rice every time.
- Knife: A sharp tool used for cutting and preparing ingredients, available in various types for different tasks.
- Food processor: A versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients quickly and efficiently.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Salsa Chicken
- Allow the slow cooker salsa chicken to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the chicken and vegetables to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 4 days in the fridge.
- To freeze, place the cooled chicken and vegetables in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Label the container with the date and contents.
- When freezing, it's best to store the rice separately from the chicken and vegetables to maintain its texture.
- Frozen slow cooker salsa chicken can be kept for up to 3 months in the freezer.
- To reheat, thaw the frozen chicken and vegetables overnight in the refrigerator.
- Transfer the thawed contents to a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the chicken and vegetables in a saucepan on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring gently until heated through.
- If the mixture seems dry during reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to help moisten it.
- Serve the reheated slow cooker salsa chicken over freshly cooked rice and garnish with fresh cilantro and avocado slices for the best taste and texture.
How To Reheat Leftover Salsa Chicken
Reheat the slow cooker salsa chicken in a skillet or sauté pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through and the chicken is warm and tender. This method allows you to control the temperature and ensures even reheating without drying out the chicken.
For a quick and easy reheating option, place the leftover slow cooker salsa chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the chicken and vegetables are heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chicken to become tough and rubbery.
If you have a bit more time, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer the leftover slow cooker salsa chicken to an oven-safe dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken and vegetables are heated through. This method helps to maintain the original texture and flavors of the dish.
For a crispy twist, reheat the slow cooker salsa chicken under the broiler. Preheat your broiler to high and place the leftover chicken and vegetables in an oven-safe dish. Broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and the chicken is heated through. Keep a close eye on the dish to prevent burning.
If you have leftover rice or cauliflower rice, reheat it separately in the microwave or on the stovetop. Once the rice is heated through, serve the reheated slow cooker salsa chicken over the warm rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Interesting Fact About Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken
Salsa chicken is a popular dish in Mexican cuisine, known for its flavorful combination of spices and ingredients.
Is This Recipe Budget-Friendly for Home Cooking?
The slow cooker salsa chicken with black beans and corn recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, including chicken, black beans, and corn, are affordable and readily available. This dish provides a hearty and flavorful meal for a family of four at an approximate cost of $15. The combination of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients makes it a nutritious and budget-friendly option. The overall verdict for this recipe is 9/10, considering its affordability, ease of preparation, and delicious taste.
Is This Salsa Chicken Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This slow cooker salsa chicken with black beans and corn recipe is a nutritious and well-balanced meal. The combination of lean chicken breast, fiber-rich black beans, and nutrient-dense corn provides a good mix of protein, complex carbohydrates, and essential vitamins and minerals. The use of salsa adds flavor without relying on excessive amounts of salt or unhealthy fats. Additionally, the inclusion of cilantro and avocado provides fresh, vibrant flavors and healthy fats.
However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:
- Opt for low-sodium or no-added-salt black beans and salsa to reduce the overall sodium content
- Choose reduced-fat cheddar cheese or use a smaller amount of full-fat cheese to decrease the saturated fat content
- Serve the dish with a larger portion of brown rice or cauliflower rice to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the meal
- Add more non-starchy vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to the slow cooker to boost the overall vegetable intake
To further enhance the nutritional value of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:
- Use skinless chicken breasts to reduce the saturated fat content
- Incorporate additional spices, such as chili powder or smoked paprika, to add depth of flavor without increasing the sodium content
- Serve the dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables to increase the overall nutrient density of the meal
- Prepare a fresh salsa using diced tomatoes, onions, jalapenos, and lime juice to have better control over the sodium content and ensure maximum freshness
- Experiment with different types of beans, such as pinto or kidney beans, to vary the texture and flavor profile of the dish
Editor's Opinion on This Salsa Chicken Recipe
This slow cooker salsa chicken with black beans and corn recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of adobo seasoning, cumin, and garlic powder adds depth to the chicken, while the salsa infuses a zesty kick. The addition of corn and black beans provides a hearty and wholesome element, complemented by the creamy melted cheddar. Garnishing with fresh cilantro and avocado adds a burst of freshness. Serving this dish over brown rice creates a satisfying and complete meal. It's a simple yet delicious recipe that is sure to become a family favorite.
Enhance Your Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken with Black Beans and Corn Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken with Black Beans and Corn Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal. The use of fresh ingredients such as corn, black beans, and salsa ensures a burst of vibrant flavors. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to become tender and infused with the rich blend of adobo seasoning, cumin, and garlic powder. Topped with gooey cheddar and garnished with fragrant cilantro, this dish promises a delightful experience. Trust in the simplicity and authenticity of this recipe for a delicious and wholesome meal.
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