Name: Easy Salsa Verde Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts and/or thighs; Kosher salt and black pepper; 1 ¾ cups homemade or jarred salsa verde (about one 16-ounce jar); 4 cloves garlic, chopped (approximately 2 tablespoons); 1 jalapeño, stemmed, seeded, and chopped; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 2 teaspoons dried Mexican oregano; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 4 scallions, sliced (about ¾ cup); 1 small bunch cilantro, leaves and tender stems finely chopped (about 1 cup); 1 tablespoon honey (optional)

Jump to Recipe

Making Easy Salsa Verde Chicken, whether in an Instant Pot or a slow cooker, is a delightful way to elevate your weeknight dinners with minimal effort. This dish combines tender chicken with a zesty salsa verde and robust spices, creating a flavor explosion that’s perfect for tacos, burritos, or simply served over rice. As someone who often seeks simple, yet impressive meals, this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen—its straightforward preparation and savory goodness make it stand out.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This recipe is not just easy; it’s a versatile winner that draws on classic Mexican flavors, making it an instant favorite for families and gatherings alike. The combination of boneless, skinless chicken breasts and thighs ensures a juicy texture that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s an economical option that doesn’t skimp on taste.

Why, you may ask? For one, this dish can usually be whipped up in under an hour using the Instant Pot, which is perfect for those busy weeknights, or thrown in the slow cooker in the morning for a hassle-free dinner. It’s also customizable—try switching up the heat level by adjusting the jalapeños or adding additional spices, allowing it to cater to your family’s preferences.

“This salsa verde chicken has become a family favorite! It’s so easy to make, and everyone enjoys it. I love serving it with warm tortillas and fresh avocado.” – A satisfied home cook.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

The beauty of Easy Salsa Verde Chicken lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that is both delicious and satisfying. Here’s a quick overview: you’ll be seasoning chicken, sautéing garlic, and mixing everything together with vibrant salsa verde and spices. Then, depending on your choice of cooking method, either pressure cook it for a quick meal or throw it in the slow cooker for a slow meld of flavors.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before we dive into cooking, let’s gather everything you’ll need for this delectable dish:

New Ebook

🍰 30 Easy No-Bake Desserts

A delicious collection of no-bake treats you can make anytime, including:

✨ Chocolate lovers’ dreams – fudgy bars, truffles & mousse
🍓 Fruity delights – creamy parfaits, lemon & mango desserts
🥜 Nutty & indulgent – peanut butter & pistachio bites
🍋 Citrus & refreshing – lemon, orange creamsicle & key lime
🍪 Classic favorites – icebox cakes & cookie dough cups

👉 Get the Ebook

Instant digital download • Secure checkout via Gumroad

2 pounds boneless (skinless chicken breasts and/or thighs, a combination of both is ideal)
Kosher salt and black pepper
1 ¾ cups homemade or jarred salsa verde (about one 16-ounce jar)
4 cloves garlic, chopped (approximately 2 tablespoons)
1 jalapeño, stemmed, seeded, and chopped
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons dried Mexican oregano
1 teaspoon onion powder
4 scallions, sliced (about ¾ cup)
1 small bunch cilantro, leaves and tender stems finely chopped (about 1 cup)
1 tablespoon honey (optional for a touch of sweetness)

Feel free to substitute chicken with your preferred protein or even a plant-based substitute to cater to your dietary needs.

Step-by-Step Directions

Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the chicken generously with kosher salt and black pepper.
Sauté Garlic: In your Instant Pot, use the sauté feature to add a little oil and sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. If you’re using a slow cooker, skip this step.
Add Ingredients: Add the chicken, salsa verde, jalapeño, cumin, oregano, onion powder, and honey (if using) to the pot.
Cook:
- Instant Pot: Secure the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Allow for a natural release.
- Slow Cooker: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Shred Chicken: Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks right in the pot and stir to mix with the juices.
Garnish: Stir in sliced scallions and chopped cilantro before serving.

Best Way to Serve

Now that your Easy Salsa Verde Chicken is ready, it’s time to think about how to serve it! Here are a few ideas to enhance your dining experience:

Tacos: Layer shredded chicken in warm corn or flour tortillas. Top with diced avocado, fresh cilantro, and a drizzle of lime for a fresh kick.
Bowls: Create a rice bowl by serving the chicken over white or brown rice, topped off with Greek yogurt or sour cream, and a sprinkle of pepitas (pumpkin seeds).
Quesadillas: For a cheesy twist, fill tortillas with cheese and chicken mixture, then grill until golden for delicious quesadillas.

Best Way to Store Easy Salsa Verde Chicken

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing them properly will ensure they stay fresh for your next meal:

Refrigerate: Place any leftover chicken in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freeze: For longer preservation, transfer the chicken to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

When reheating, ensure the chicken is heated thoroughly to at least 165°F to maintain safety.

Pro Chef Tips

Here are some useful tips to elevate your cooking game with this recipe:

Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh salsa verde can enhance the flavors significantly. If you have the time, consider making your own version.
Variety of Spices: Adjust the spices to match your family’s taste preference. Throw in some chipotle powder for extra smokiness, or add a touch of lime juice for brightness before serving.
Make it Ahead: Consider preparing this dish ahead of time for meal prep—it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together!

Creative Twists

Experimenting with this salsa verde chicken can lead to delightful new favorites:

Tropical Fusion: Add diced pineapple or mango for a fruity twist that perfectly balances the spice.
Different Proteins: Swap out chicken for pork or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option that absorbs the sauce beautifully.
Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Try adding pickled red onions, diced radishes, or a sprinkle of feta for a different texture and flavor.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to cook in an Instant Pot?
- It takes about 10 minutes of cooking time with a natural release afterward.
Can I use frozen chicken?
- Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just increase the cooking time by a few minutes in the Instant Pot, as it generally takes longer to cook.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.

This Easy Salsa Verde Chicken recipe is bound to become a beloved meal in your rotation, not just for its flavor but for its versatility and ease of preparation. Enjoy the deliciousness and make it a staple for your family gatherings or weeknight dinners.