Effortless Crockpot Fiesta Chicken from Frozen
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook: Forgot to Thaw the Chicken? No Worries!
Ever get that sinking feeling? You planned a chicken dinner, but forgot to defrost the meat. Oh my gosh, been there! This crockpot frozen chicken recipe is your lifesaver.
It delivers amazing fiesta chicken recipe flavour. The best part? You can cook it straight from frozen.
Brief Overview: Fiesta in a Crockpot
This is a proper dump and go chicken recipes situation. Hailing from the depths of my hungry belly on a busy night.
This one pot frozen chicken dish brings a lively blend of Tex-Mex flavours. Ready in your slow cooker chicken from frozen in just a few hours, serves up to 8 people.
It is an absolute winner!
Main Benefits: Healthy, Easy, and Oh-So-Versatile
This crockpot chicken recipes easy meal is packed with protein and fibre, thanks to the chicken and beans. It's ideal for a casual get-together with mates.
Perfect for the big game or a family taco night. What makes this recipe special? It is stupid simple and requires zero planning.
Even crockpot chicken for beginners can nail it.
Ready for the ingredients? This frozen chicken burrito recipe is so easy, you'll be making it every week! Seriously.
Ingredients & Equipment
Alright, let's talk about the bits and bobs you'll need for this crockpot frozen chicken fiesta. Don't worry, it's not a complicated list! We are all about dump and go chicken recipes here.
Honestly, that's the best kind, innit?
Main Ingredients
Here’s what you need to whip up this flavour bomb:
- 2 lbs (900g) frozen boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Seriously, frozen. Don't even think about thawing them. That's the magic.
- 1 (15 oz/425g) can of black beans, rinsed and drained. Give 'em a good rinse; nobody likes bean juice.
- 1 (15 oz/425g) can of corn, drained. Or, if you're like me and always have a bag of frozen corn kicking about, about 1.5 cups of that will do nicely.
- 1 (10 oz/283g) can of diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained. Trust me on this one.
- 1 (1 oz/28g) packet of taco seasoning. Grab your fave!
- 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth (or water, if you're skint it works!).
- 1/2 cup (120ml) salsa. Get whatever tickles your fancy.
- Optional extras: A lime (juiced) and some chopped fresh cilantro.
Honestly, quality chicken breasts make all the difference. If you can get some that are free range, do it! You can really taste the difference, you know? And don't skimp on the salsa.
It's a flavour bomb! This recipe is great for tacos; so think of it as frozen chicken tacos for dinner.
Seasoning Notes
The taco seasoning is the MVP here. It's the backbone of our fiesta chicken recipe . But, you can totally play about with it.
- Essential spice combo: Cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder. It is all you need.
- Flavour enhancers: A pinch of smoked paprika can add a serious depth.
- Quick subs: No taco seasoning? Mix those spices together yourself. Easy peasy!
This is going to be one of your new favorite crockpot chicken recipes easy .
Equipment Needed
Keep it simple, my friend. No need for fancy gadgets here.
- A 6-quart slow cooker/crockpot is your new best friend.
- Measuring cups and spoons. You know, the usual.
- A fork or two for shredding. My favourite part!
If you don't have a slow cooker, no worries! Just kidding, you kinda need it. But seriously, a big pot on super low heat might work in a pinch.
This is a slow cooker chicken from frozen masterpiece. I've tried other methods and, honestly, the crockpot is where it's at.
This means that it also falls under one pot frozen chicken category. For crockpot chicken for beginners , this is the perfect recipe to start with.
Now, let's get cooking! This recipe is an awesome frozen chicken burrito recipe too!
Cooking Method: Effortless Crockpot Fiesta Chicken (From Frozen!)
Right, let's dive straight in, yeah? Honestly, as a keen cook, I'm all about making life easier. This crockpot frozen chicken recipe is a total game changer.
Ever forgotten to defrost the chicken? We've all been there! That's where this lifesaver recipe comes in. This is one of the dump and go chicken recipes that is not only delicious, but also incredibly convenient.
Think of it as your culinary get-out-of-jail free card.
Prep Steps: Getting Ready to Rock the Crock
Mise en place, darling. That's fancy chef talk for getting your act together before you start cooking. This is essential , even for crockpot frozen chicken .
First, dig out your 6-quart slow cooker . Then, rinse and drain your black beans and corn . Next, grab the salsa, taco seasoning, and chicken broth.
And finally, make sure you have a fork for shredding later.
step-by-step Fiesta Chicken
- Chuck the 2 lbs of frozen chicken breasts into the crockpot .
- Tip in the drained black beans and corn .
- Add the undrained diced tomatoes and green chilies , taco seasoning , 1/2 cup chicken broth and 1/2 cup salsa .
- Give it a good stir to combine.
- Cook on low for 6- 8 hours or on high for 3- 4 hours . Chicken must reach 165° F ( 74° C).
- Shred the chicken with two forks.
- Return it to the crockpot , stir.
- Serve this fiesta chicken recipe hot!
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Crockpot Game
Honestly, the biggest mistake people make is overcooking. Check your crockpot frozen chicken after the minimum cook time. Make sure the chicken shreds easily.
If it’s tough, give it another hour. Also, you can add the juice of 1 lime and a little bit of cilantro to add an extra touch of sunshine to your day.
Craving some frozen chicken tacos or a quick frozen chicken burrito recipe ? This chicken is also great for those.
It is one of my favourite crockpot chicken recipes easy . You can also use this recipe when you need slow cooker chicken from frozen .
If you want to have one pot frozen chicken recipe, then this is the recipe for you.
So there you have it! Your new favourite crockpot chicken for beginners (and pros!). Trust me, this slow cooker frozen chicken breast recipe is a keeper.
Recipe Notes: Your Fiesta Chicken Survival Guide
Right then, let's chat about making this crockpot frozen chicken recipe even better . Because honestly, sometimes, you just need a few extra tips to really nail it, don't you? It is really easy to make slow cooker frozen chicken breast , trust me!.
Serving Suggestions: From Fiesta to Siesta
Forget boring plates! Presentation matters, even for dump and go chicken recipes ! Think vibrant colours.
- Plating Power: Pile that gorgeous fiesta chicken recipe high on warm tortillas for the classic frozen chicken tacos . Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime. Boom! Instagram worthy.
- Sidekicks: Rice and beans are your go-to pals, obvs. A simple side salad adds a bit of freshness. And don't forget the cold cerveza or margarita. It's always cocktail hour somewhere, right?
Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh
So, you’ve got leftovers (if you're lucky!). Let’s keep that fiesta going.
- Fridge Rules: Pop that shredded chicken into an airtight container and it'll happily sit in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Perfect for quick lunches.
- Freezing Frenzy: Want to save some for a rainy day? Freeze in portion sized bags for up to 2-3 months. Great for quick frozen chicken burrito recipe fillings.
- Reheat Ready: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until piping hot. I sometimes add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
Variations: Your Chicken, Your Rules
Fancy mixing things up? Let's get creative with this crockpot chicken for beginners recipe!
- dairy-free Dreams: Swap the dairy toppings for avocado crema. Equally delicious, totally dairy-free.
- Seasonal Swaps: In the summer, chuck in some grilled corn and chopped bell peppers for extra sweetness and crunch. In winter, a pinch of smoked paprika adds warmth. I really love this variations when I am thinking to make a one pot frozen chicken dish!
Nutrition Basics: Fueling the Fun
Okay, let’s talk health. This slow cooker chicken from frozen is pretty good for you, actually!
- Protein Powerhouse: Loaded with protein, thanks to the chicken and beans. Great for building muscle and feeling full. I used to bulk it up when I need it with beans or quinoa!
- Vitamin Boost: Corn and tomatoes bring the vitamins. Just be mindful of the sodium content from the taco seasoning and salsa. Opt for low-sodium versions if you're watching your salt intake.
Honestly? This crockpot chicken recipes easy recipe is your secret weapon for easy, delicious, and healthy meals. So go on, give it a whirl.
You won't regret it! Now, go ahead and make this fiesta chicken today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I really cook frozen chicken in a crockpot? I thought that was a no-no!
You absolutely can, and that's what makes this recipe so brill! Just make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it's cooked through properly. Cooking from frozen takes longer, so factor that into your cook time. Safety first, like a proper driving instructor would say!
How long does it really take to cook crockpot frozen chicken, and how do I know it's done?
Generally, you're looking at 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high, but every slow cooker is different. The best way to check for doneness is with a meat thermometer pop it in the thickest part of the chicken. If it reads 165°F (74°C), you're golden.
If it's not there yet, give it another hour (or half hour on high) and check again. No one wants a dodgy tummy after all!
My sauce is really watery after cooking. How can I thicken it up a bit?
A watery sauce is a common occurrence, don't you worry! Remove the lid from the crockpot for the last 30-60 minutes on high to let some of the liquid evaporate. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water, then stir that into the crockpot and let it cook for another 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, similar to making a proper gravy.
Can I add other veggies to this crockpot frozen chicken recipe?
Absolutely, get creative! Bell peppers, onions, or even sweet potatoes would be fantastic additions, contributing to the fiesta vibe. Add them at the beginning of the cooking process along with the other ingredients.
They'll soften up beautifully, adding extra flavour and nutrients to your dish, like adding extra veggies to a sunday roast.
How long can I store leftovers, and what's the best way to reheat the crockpot frozen chicken?
Leftovers will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days, stored in an airtight container. You can reheat it in the microwave, on the stovetop, or even back in the slow cooker on low. Make sure it's piping hot all the way through before serving, just like your nan always said.
Is this recipe healthy? What are the nutritional considerations?
This recipe can be a healthy and balanced meal, like a healthy choice at nando's!. It's packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the beans and corn. Watch out for the sodium content of the taco seasoning and salsa, and opt for low-sodium versions if you're concerned.
You can also load up on fresh toppings like avocado and lettuce for extra nutrients!
Effortless Crockpot Fiesta Chicken From Frozen
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 300-350 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 10-15g |
| Fiber | 5-7g |
