If you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and requires minimal effort, then look no further than this mouthwatering Green Chile Chicken in a Crockpot! Imagine coming home to the irresistible aroma of tender, juicy chicken infused with zesty green chiles after a long day. This Southwestern delight not only serves up to six people but also allows you to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Ready to elevate your weeknight dinners? Let’s dive into this easy, flavorful recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Southwestern
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs
- 1 can green chiles
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Gather 2 lbs of chicken thighs, 1 can of green chiles, 1 cup of chicken broth, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Rinse the chicken thighs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any excess moisture and ensures better browning.
- In a large bowl, season the chicken thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly with the seasonings.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs into the crockpot. Spread them out evenly to ensure even cooking.
- Open the can of green chiles and pour them over the chicken thighs in the crockpot. Make sure to include all the juices from the can for added flavor.
- Pour 1 cup of chicken broth over the chicken and chiles. This will help to keep the chicken moist and create a flavorful sauce.
- Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours. This slow cooking method will allow the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become tender.
- After 6 hours, check the chicken for doneness. It should be tender and easily shredded with a fork. If it is not fully cooked, you can continue to cook it for an additional hour.
- Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred the meat directly in the crockpot, mixing it with the juices for added flavor.
- Serve the green chile chicken warm, either on its own or over rice, tortillas, or in tacos. Garnish with your favorite toppings such as cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for bone-in, skinless chicken thighs for extra flavor and moisture. If you prefer leaner meat, boneless chicken breasts can also work, but they may dry out more easily.
- Enhance the Flavor: For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of lime juice to the chicken before cooking. You can also experiment with different spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
- Layering Ingredients: When layering your ingredients in the crockpot, place the chicken at the bottom and the green chiles on top. This helps the chicken absorb all the flavors from the chiles and broth as it cooks.
- Adjust Cooking Time: If you’re short on time, you can set your crockpot to high and cook for about 3-4 hours instead of the low setting for 6 hours. Just be sure to check for doneness!
- Perfect Shredding: For easy shredding, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This will help it retain its juices and make it easier to pull apart with forks.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the shredded chicken over rice, in tacos, or as a filling for burritos. Don’t forget to top it off with your favorite garnishes like cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for that extra burst of flavor!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 140mg
