Ingredients
— The Slow Cooker Mix —
1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained (or 1.5 cups frozen corn)
1 jar (16 oz) chunky salsa (mild or medium)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional, for more sauce)
1 packet (1 oz) Taco Seasoning (or homemade blend)
½ cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon chili powder
— The Bowls —
4 cups cooked white or brown rice (warm)
— Toppings (The Fun Part) —
Shredded Cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
Diced avocado or guacamole
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Lime wedges
Instructions
1. **Combine Ingredients:** Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour in the drained black beans, corn, salsa, diced tomatoes (if using), and chicken broth.
2. **Season:** Sprinkle the taco seasoning, cumin, and chili powder over the top. Stir slightly just to distribute the spices and ensure the chicken is covered by the liquid/salsa mixture.
3. **Cook:** Cover and cook on **LOW for 6–7 hours** or on **HIGH for 3–4 hours**. The chicken is done when it is tender enough to shred easily with a fork.
4. **Shred:** Remove the chicken breasts to a cutting board or plate. Shred the meat using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir well to coat it in the flavorful juices.
5. **Simmer (Optional):** If the sauce looks too runny, you can let it cook uncovered on HIGH for another 15–20 minutes to thicken up.
6. **Assemble:** Spoon a generous portion of warm rice into bowls. Top with the shredded chicken and bean mixture.
7. **Serve:** Load it up with cheese, avocado, sour cream, cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Notes
Rice Tip: Cook the rice separately on the stove or in a rice cooker for the best texture. Cooking rice *inside* the slow cooker with the other ingredients often results in mushy grains.
Meal Prep: This recipe is a meal prep champion. Store the chicken mixture and rice in separate containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Assemble just before heating.
Low Carb: Swap the rice for cauliflower rice or serve the chicken mixture inside lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
Spice Level: Control the heat by choosing a Mild, Medium, or Hot salsa.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 240
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Gluten Free