Get ready to elevate your slow cooker game with this delicious Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken recipe from Skinny Taste. Made with a combination of corn, black beans, tomatoes, and a blend of seasonings, this recipe requires no pre-cooking and utilizes pantry staples. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways, whether you decide to serve it over cilantro lime rice, cauliflower rice, or use it as a filling for enchiladas. With its kid-friendly, freezer-friendly, and gluten-free qualities, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Recipe Title
Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken
Overview
Welcome to the delicious world of Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken! This recipe is a game-changer when it comes to easy and flavorful meals. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just a chicken lover, this recipe is perfect for you. In this article, we will break down everything you need to know about the Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken, from its ingredients to its cooking time, and even some variations to spice things up. So grab your apron and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure!
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About the Recipe
The Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that combines corn, black beans, tomatoes, and a variety of seasonings. The best part about this recipe is that there is no pre-cooking required! You simply throw all the ingredients into your crock pot and let it work its magic. This dish is not only delicious, but it’s also healthy, budget-friendly, and incredibly versatile. You can enjoy the Santa Fe Chicken over rice, tortillas, or even as a topping for nachos. The possibilities are endless!
Ingredients
To make the Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:
- Chicken breast
- Diced tomatoes with mild green chilies
- Black beans
- Frozen corn
- Chopped fresh cilantro.
- Chicken broth
- Scallions
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Cumin
- Cayenne pepper
- Salt
These ingredients come together to create a flavorful and satisfying meal that will have your taste buds begging for more.
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Cooking Time
The Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken requires a total cooking time of 8 hours on low or 4 to 6 hours on high. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and create a tender and juicy chicken dish.
Featured On Skinnytaste.com
The Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken recipe is proudly featured on Skinnytaste.com, a popular food blog created by Gina Homolka. Skinnytaste focuses on providing delicious and healthy recipes that are perfect for those looking to maintain a balanced lifestyle. With its emphasis on fresh ingredients and flavorful meals, Skinnytaste has become a go-to resource for anyone looking to improve their cooking skills and enjoy nutritious dishes.
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Recipe Details
Now that we’ve covered the basics of the Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken, let’s dive into some more specific details about this recipe.
Prep Time
The prep time for this recipe is minimal, allowing you to quickly assemble all the ingredients and get your crock pot ready for action. You can expect to spend about 5 minutes prepping the ingredients and getting everything organized.
Cook Time
The cook time for the Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken is 8 hours on low or 4 to 6 hours on high. This slow cooking method ensures that the flavors have time to develop and that the chicken becomes tender and juicy.
Total Time
Taking into account both the prep time and the cook time, the total time for this recipe is 8 hours and 5 minutes on low or 4 to 6 hours and 5 minutes on high. This means that you can start the preparation in the morning and come back to a delicious meal in the evening.
Serving Size
The Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken recipe yields approximately 8 servings. This makes it perfect for feeding a crowd or for meal prepping for the week ahead.
Calories per Serving
Each serving of the Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken contains approximately 183 calories. This makes it a nutritious and low-calorie option for those looking to watch their intake while still enjoying a delicious meal.
Protein per Serving
With 24 grams of protein per serving, the Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken is a great way to meet your daily protein needs. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues and plays a crucial role in muscle growth and maintenance.
Carbs per Serving
Each serving of the Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken contains approximately 17 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are a vital source of energy for our bodies and are especially important for active individuals.
Fats per Serving
The Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken is a low-fat dish, with only 3 grams of fat per serving. This makes it a healthy option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
Ingredients
Now let’s take a closer look at the ingredients needed to make the Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken.
Chicken Breast
Chicken breast serves as the star of this dish, providing a lean and protein-packed base for the flavors to develop.
Diced Tomatoes with Mild Green Chilies
These canned tomatoes add a burst of flavor and a slight kick of spice to the dish. They are readily available in most grocery stores and are a great pantry staple to have on hand.
Black Beans
Black beans not only add texture and substance to the Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken, but they are also rich in fiber and protein. They are a nutritious addition to any meal.
Frozen Corn
Frozen corn provides a touch of sweetness and a burst of vibrant color to the dish. It’s a convenient option and adds a delightful crunch to every bite.
Chopped Fresh Cilantro
Cilantro is a herb that adds a refreshing and zesty flavor to the dish. It pairs perfectly with the other ingredients and adds a touch of brightness to every bite.
Chicken Broth
Chicken broth serves as the flavorful liquid that helps cook the chicken and infuse it with delicious flavors. It adds a depth of richness to the dish and enhances the overall taste.
Scallions
Scallions, also known as green onions, add a mild onion flavor to the dish. They provide a pop of freshness and a hint of crunch.
Garlic Powder
Garlic powder is used to infuse the Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken with a savory and robust garlic flavor. It adds depth and complexity to the dish.
Onion Powder
Onion powder acts as a flavor enhancer, adding a subtle onion taste to the dish. It helps to round out the flavors and create a well-balanced meal.
Cumin
Cumin is a warm and aromatic spice that adds a smoky and earthy flavor to the Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken. It is a key ingredient in many Mexican and Southwestern dishes.
Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper adds a hint of heat and spice to the dish. It can be adjusted to your personal taste preferences and adds a kick to every bite.
Salt
Salt is an essential ingredient in any dish, as it helps to enhance and balance the flavors. It is used in moderation to ensure that the dish is properly seasoned.
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Instructions
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s walk through the step-by-step instructions for making the Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken.
Combine Ingredients
To start, combine the chicken broth, black beans (drained), frozen corn, diced tomatoes with mild green chilies, chopped fresh cilantro, scallions, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, and salt in the slow cooker. Mix them together until well-combined.
Season Chicken Breast
Season the chicken breast with salt and lay it on top of the other ingredients in the slow cooker. This allows the chicken to absorb the flavors as it cooks.
Cooking Time and Temperature
Cook the Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken on low for 8 to 10 hours or on high for 4 to 6 hours. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and create a tender and juicy chicken dish.
Shredding Chicken
Thirty minutes before serving, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and use two forks to shred it. Shredding the chicken allows it to fully absorb the flavors of the dish and creates a more enjoyable texture.
Adjusting Seasonings
After shredding the chicken, return it to the slow cooker and stir it into the mixture. At this point, you can adjust the salt and seasonings to your taste preferences. Feel free to add more spices or herbs for an extra kick of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
The Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. You can serve it over rice or tortillas for a complete meal. Don’t forget to add your favorite toppings, such as chopped scallions, fresh cilantro, fat-free yogurt or sour cream, and cheddar cheese. The toppings add an extra layer of freshness and creaminess to the dish.
Instant Pot Method
For those who prefer using an Instant Pot, you can also make the Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken using this appliance. Simply follow the same instructions, but adjust the cooking time to high pressure for 25 minutes. You can use the quick release or natural release method to release the pressure. The result will be just as delicious and flavorful!
Freezer and Meal Prep Tips
The Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken is perfect for meal prepping and freezing for later enjoyment. Here are some tips to help you prep and store this dish:
Meal Prep
To meal prep, simply place the cooked Santa Fe Chicken in microwave-safe plastic or glass containers with rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice, and your favorite toppings. Refrigerate them to reheat for the week. This allows you to have a delicious and nutritious meal ready to go anytime you need it.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to freeze the Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken, divide it into 1-cup portions and freeze them in freezer-safe containers. This allows you to have homemade freezer meals ready to go whenever you’re in need of a quick and easy dinner option. When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen meal, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in the microwave.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat the Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken, simply microwave it until it’s heated through. You can also reheat it on the stovetop by adding a little chicken broth or water to prevent it from drying out.
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Slow Cooker vs. Instant Pot
Both the slow cooker and the Instant Pot are valuable kitchen appliances that can help you create delicious meals with ease. Here’s a quick comparison of these two appliances:
Comparison of Appliances
- Slow Cooker: The slow cooker, also known as a crock pot, provides a low and slow cooking method that allows flavors to develop and ingredients to become tender and juicy. It’s great for recipes that require long cooking times and for those who prefer a hands-off approach to cooking.
- Instant Pot: The Instant Pot is a versatile appliance that combines the functions of a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, and more. It speeds up the cooking process and allows you to cook meals in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods.
Personal Recommendations
When it comes to making the Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken, both appliances will yield delicious results. If you have the time and prefer the slow cooking method, the slow cooker is a great option. However, if you’re short on time and want to enjoy the dish faster, the Instant Pot is an excellent choice. Ultimately, it depends on your personal preferences and kitchen setup.
Variations and Additions
The Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken is a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Here are some suggestions for customizing the recipe:
Suggestions for Customizing the Recipe
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the dish. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even sweet potatoes would be great additions.
- Swap the protein: If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can easily swap it out for another protein such as beef, pork, or shrimp. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Spice it up: If you prefer a spicier dish, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
- Change up the toppings: Experiment with different toppings to add variety to your dish. Avocado slices, diced tomatoes, or a squeeze of lime juice would be delicious additions.
These are just a few suggestions, but feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own!
Tips and Tricks
To ensure that your Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken turns out perfectly every time, here are some additional cooking and storage tips:
Additional Cooking Tips
- Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe to keep it lean and healthy.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether.
Storage Tips
- Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- You can also freeze the cooked Santa Fe Chicken for up to 3 months. Make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken stays fresh and delicious for longer.
Nutritional Information
To help you stay on track with your dietary goals, here is the nutritional information for the Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken:
Calories
Each serving of the Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken contains approximately 183 calories. This makes it a low-calorie option that can fit into a balanced diet.
Protein
With 24 grams of protein per serving, the Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken is a great way to meet your daily protein needs. Protein is essential for muscle growth and repair.
Carbs
Each serving of the Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken contains approximately 17 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates provide energy to fuel your day and support your active lifestyle.
Fats
The Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken is a low-fat dish, with only 3 grams of fat per serving. This makes it a healthy option for those looking to maintain or lose weight.
Now that you have all the information you need about the Crock Pot Santa Fe Chicken, it’s time to get cooking! Gather your ingredients, fire up your crock pot, and get ready to enjoy a flavorful and delicious meal. Happy cooking!