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Slow Cooker Salsa Verde Chicken Dump Dinner - Easy, Flavorful, and Hands-Off

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken: 2 to 2.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • Salsa verde: 2 cups (store-bought or homemade)
  • Onion: 1 small yellow or white onion, thinly sliced (optional but recommended)
  • Garlic: 3 cloves, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • Cumin: 1 teaspoon
  • Chili powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Oregano: 1 teaspoon (Mexican oregano if you have it)
  • Salt and pepper: to taste
  • Lime: 1 lime, juiced
  • Fresh cilantro: a small handful, chopped (optional)
  • Optional add-ins: 1 can diced green chiles; 1 can black beans (drained and rinsed); 1 cup frozen corn
  • To serve: warm tortillas, rice or cauliflower rice, avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, pickled onions, radishes, or jalapeños

Method
 

  1. Prep the base: Add the onion slices to the bottom of the slow cooker. This keeps the chicken elevated and flavors the sauce.
  2. Season the chicken: Place the chicken on top. Sprinkle with cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add minced garlic (or garlic powder).
  3. Add salsa verde: Pour the salsa verde over the chicken. If you’re using green chiles, beans, or corn, add them now.
  4. Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on Low for 4–6 hours or on High for 2.5–3.5 hours, until the chicken is tender and shreds easily.
  5. Shred and finish: Shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks. Stir in the lime juice and cilantro. Taste and adjust with extra salt, pepper, or a splash more salsa.
  6. Serve your way: Spoon into tacos, pile onto rice bowls, or stuff into burritos. Add your favorite toppings for crunch and creaminess.