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Slow Cooker Cilantro Lime Chicken Recipe

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4.7 from 124 reviews

This Slow Cooker Cilantro Lime Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish perfect for busy days. Tender chicken breasts are slow-cooked in a tangy lime and garlic broth, then shredded and mixed with fresh cilantro for a zesty finish. Ideal for meal prep or a family dinner, this recipe yields juicy, aromatic chicken that pairs wonderfully with rice, tacos, or salads.

Ingredients

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Liquid and Seasoning Mix

  • 1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Juice of 4 limes
  • Zest of 1 lime

Main Ingredient

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 to 1 cup chopped cilantro

Instructions

  1. Prepare the seasoning mixture: In a bowl, combine the chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, freshly squeezed lime juice, and lime zest. Stir well to mix all the flavors evenly.
  2. Add chicken and seasoning to slow cooker: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker and pour the prepared liquid seasoning mixture over the chicken, ensuring the chicken is well coated.
  3. Cook the chicken: Cover and cook on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, or on LOW for 5 to 6 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender enough to shred easily with a fork.
  4. Shred the chicken: Using two forks, shred the cooked chicken directly in the slow cooker, mixing it thoroughly with the cooking liquids to preserve moisture and flavor.
  5. Add cilantro and adjust flavors: Stir in the chopped cilantro and toss to combine. Taste the mixture and add additional lime juice if desired to enhance the brightness and tang.

Notes

  • To make this dish spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix before cooking.
  • For extra zest, serve with lime wedges alongside the dish.
  • Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor and more tender meat.
  • The shredded chicken is great for tacos, burrito bowls, or served over rice and vegetables.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.