Mexican Chicken Crock Pot is a game-changer for busy weeknights. This Easy Mexican Chicken Crock Pot Recipe delivers a flavor explosion that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. With just a handful of ingredients, it’s the perfect solution for those hectic days when you want a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Effortlessly prepared, it promises to be a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Mexican Chicken Crock Pot
This recipe is not just about convenience; it’s about taste and versatility. Here’s why you’ll love making this Mexican Chicken in Crock Pot:
- It’s incredibly easy to prepare, ideal for quick Mexican Chicken Crock Pot dinners.
- The flavors meld beautifully, creating an authentic taste experience.
- Perfect for meal prep; you can make it ahead and store it.
- This dish is gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs.
- It’s versatile—serve it as a filling for tacos, burritos, or over rice.
- With ingredients like salsa and chipotle, it’s packed with flavor!
Ingredients for Mexican Chicken Crock Pot
Gather these items:
- 1 tablespoon Liquid smoke
- 1/4 cup Brown sugar
- 1 cup Mild salsa
- 1 teaspoon Ground chipotle chili pepper
- 2 pounds Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
How to Make Mexican Chicken Crock Pot Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Prepare Chicken: Start by placing the chicken in your Instant Pot. Make sure it’s evenly spread out for even cooking.
- Step 2: Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine liquid smoke, brown sugar, mild salsa, and ground chipotle chili pepper. Stir well until the brown sugar is dissolved.
- Step 3: Add Sauce: Pour the mixture over the chicken in the pot, making sure each piece is coated with that delicious sauce.
- Step 4: Cook Chicken: Seal the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 13 minutes. Once completed, allow it to naturally release for 15 minutes.
- Step 5: Shred Chicken: Open the pot carefully, and shred the chicken using two forks right in the pot. It should be tender and juicy.
- Step 6: Second Cook: Return the shredded chicken to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing it to soak up more flavor.
- Step 7: Drain Liquid: Use a strainer to drain any excess liquid. Gently press down on the chicken to remove extra moisture, making it easier to serve.
- Step 8: Cook Rice: Use the drained liquid plus additional water to cook rice according to your recipe or package instructions for a flavorful side.
- Step 9: Serve with Flair: If desired, stir in enchilada sauce after draining the chicken before serving over rice or in tortillas for a delightful meal!

Pro Tips for the Best Mexican Chicken Crock Pot
Keep these in mind:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Adjust the spiciness by using hotter salsa or more chipotle.
- Consider adding beans to make it a Mexican Chicken Crock Pot with beans.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked.
Best Ways to Serve Mexican Chicken Crock Pot
This dish is incredibly versatile. Here are some serving ideas:
- Serve it in warm tortillas topped with fresh cilantro, avocado, and lime.
- Pair it with Mexican rice for a complete meal.
- Use it as a filling for burritos or enchiladas for a hearty dinner.
How to Store and Reheat Mexican Chicken Crock Pot
To store leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove until heated through. This dish is perfect for Mexican Chicken Crock Pot for meal prep.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mexican Chicken Crock Pot
What’s the secret to perfect Mexican Chicken Crock Pot?
The secret lies in the marinade; allowing the chicken to soak in the flavors of the liquid smoke and salsa makes all the difference. Use quality ingredients for the best results.
Can I make Mexican Chicken Crock Pot ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish can be made a day in advance and reheated when ready to serve, perfect for busy weeknights.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Mexican Chicken Crock Pot?
To avoid overcooking, ensure you follow the cooking times closely. Use a reliable meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken.
Variations of Mexican Chicken Crock Pot You Can Try
Mix things up with these variations:
- Add black beans for a Healthy Mexican Chicken in Slow Cooker.
- Incorporate corn for a sweeter touch.
- Use different salsas, such as mango or chipotle for a spicy twist.
For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making Crockpot Butter Chicken for a different flavor experience. You can also explore Chicken Noodle Egg Drop Soup for a comforting meal.
For more information on the health benefits of chicken, visit Healthline.
Print
Easy Mexican Chicken Crock Pot: 6 Flavorful Steps
- Total Time: 53 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Easy Mexican Chicken Crock Pot Recipe delivers a flavor explosion in your kitchen. Effortlessly prepared, it’s perfect for busy nights.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon Liquid smoke
- 1/4 cup Brown sugar
- 1 cup Mild salsa
- 1 teaspoon Ground chipotle chili pepper
- 2 pounds Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Start by placing the chicken in your Instant Pot. Make sure it’s evenly spread out for even cooking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine liquid smoke, brown sugar, mild salsa, and ground chipotle chili pepper. Stir well until the brown sugar is dissolved.
- Add Sauce: Pour the mixture over the chicken in the pot, making sure each piece is coated with that delicious sauce.
- Cook Chicken: Seal the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 13 minutes. Once completed, allow it to naturally release for 15 minutes.
- Shred Chicken: Open the pot carefully, and shred the chicken using two forks right in the pot. It should be tender and juicy.
- Second Cook: Return the shredded chicken to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing it to soak up more flavor.
- Drain Liquid: Use a strainer to drain any excess liquid. Gently press down on the chicken to remove extra moisture, making it easier to serve.
- Cook Rice: Use the drained liquid plus additional water to cook rice according to your recipe or package instructions for a flavorful side.
- Serve with Flair: If desired, stir in enchilada sauce after draining the chicken before serving over rice or in tortillas for a delightful meal!
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 38 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Crock Pot
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Keywords: Mexican Chicken Crock Pot