Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken

If you’re searching for a delicious, hassle-free dinner that practically cooks itself, look no further! This Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender chicken with zesty flavors that transport your taste buds straight to the Southwest. Packed with protein and vibrant ingredients, this dish is perfect for busy weekdays or laid-back weekends. Simply set it and forget it, and enjoy the enticing aroma that fills your kitchen as it simmers away!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

There are so many reasons to fall in love with Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken. Not only is it incredibly easy to prepare, but it also offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The juicy chicken melds beautifully with the sweet corn, hearty black beans, and tangy tomatoes, creating a dish that’s not only satisfying but also nutritious. Plus, it’s versatile! Serve it over rice, in tacos, or alongside some fresh tortillas. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a cozy dinner gathering, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your home.

The Essentials

To whip up this delightful Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 24 oz chicken breast (1-1/2 lbs) – boneless, skinless for the best texture.
• 14.4 oz can diced tomatoes with mild green chilies – adds a zesty kick.
• 15 oz can black beans – rinsed and drained for a hearty protein source.
• 8 oz frozen corn – sweet and adds a pop of color.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro – for a refreshing herbal note.
• 14.4 oz can chicken broth – enhances the flavor and keeps the chicken moist.
• 3 scallions – chopped for a mild onion flavor.
• 1 tsp garlic powder – a must for savory depth.
• 1 tsp onion powder – complements the fresh scallions.
• 1 tsp cumin – gives an earthy, warm flavor.
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper – adjust to taste for spice lovers!
• Salt to taste – enhances all the flavors.

Gear Up: What to Grab

Before you get started, make sure you have these kitchen essentials on hand:

• Crock Pot – your trusty slow cooker is the star of the show!
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient measurements.
• Cutting board and knife – for chopping veggies and herbs.
• Can opener – to easily open your beans and tomatoes.
• Mixing spoon – for stirring everything together.
• Serving bowls – for plating up this delicious dish!

Mastering Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken: How-To

Creating Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken is a breeze with these simple steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the 24 oz chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. You can leave them whole, as they will shred easily once cooked.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

Pour the 14.4 oz can of diced tomatoes with green chilies over the chicken. Then, add the 15 oz can of black beans (rinsed and drained) and the 8 oz frozen corn.

Step 3: Season It Up

Sprinkle the chopped scallions, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp cumin, and cayenne pepper (to taste) over the mixture. Don’t forget to season with salt to enhance the flavors.

Step 4: Pour in the Broth

Add the 14.4 oz can of chicken broth to the slow cooker. This will keep the chicken moist and create a flavorful sauce.

Step 5: Slow Cook

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the slow cooker. Give everything a good stir to combine.

Step 7: Add Fresh Herbs

Stir in the 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro just before serving for a burst of freshness.

Smart Substitutions

Feel free to customize your Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken with these smart substitutions:

• Use turkey breast instead of chicken for a leaner option.
• Swap canned diced tomatoes for fresh tomatoes if they’re in season.
• Add bell peppers or zucchini for extra veggies and flavor.
• Opt for vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a plant-based version.
• Utilize quinoa or brown rice in place of chicken for a hearty grain bowl.

Mistakes That Ruin Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken

To ensure your Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Not rinsing the black beans can lead to a gritty texture and excess sodium.
• Using frozen chicken can result in uneven cooking; always use thawed chicken for best results.
• Neglecting to season adequately will leave your dish bland.
• Overcooking the chicken can make it dry; stick to the recommended cooking times.

Best Ways to Store

Proper storage of your Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken will help maintain its flavor and freshness:

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove or in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

It’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking and to prevent the risk of foodborne illness. If you only have frozen chicken, consider cooking it on high for a longer duration.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your taste or add diced jalapeños for an extra kick.

What can I serve with Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken?

This dish is incredibly versatile! Serve it over rice, in tacos, or with tortilla chips for a delicious nacho platter.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can add extra beans or a grain like quinoa for protein.

Try These Next

If you love Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken, you’ll also enjoy these delicious recipes:

• Slow Cooker Beef Tacos
• Spicy Chickpea Stew
• Creamy Chicken Enchiladas
• Vegetable Curry

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The Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken is a one-pot wonder that makes satisfying meals a breeze. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe will not disappoint. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy every bite!