Spoon Jarred Salsa Over Chicken for a Creamy Slow Cooker Taco Filling with Just 3 Ingredients
This 3-ingredient slow cooker cream cheese salsa chicken is the ultimate dump-and-go crockpot dinner for busy weeknights. Made with tender chicken breasts, jarred salsa, and cream cheese, this recipe delivers a creamy taco-style chicken filling with zero stovetop work and almost no prep.
It’s a modern take on classic Midwestern slow cooker meals simple, comforting, and incredibly reliable. The salsa seasons the chicken as it cooks low and slow, while the cream cheese melts into a rich, tangy sauce that tastes like it simmered all day. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping meals for the week, or planning an easy game-day spread, this slow cooker salsa chicken fits the bill every time.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Salsa Chicken:
Only 3 ingredients perfect for low-stress cooking
Hands-off slow cooker recipe no browning or stirring
Creamy, taco-inspired flavor the whole family loves
Budget-friendly and meal-prep friendly
Versatile for tacos, burrito bowls, rice dishes, and leftovers
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
2 to 2½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 (16-ounce) jar salsa (mild, medium, or hot)
1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese, softened or cubed
Instructions:
Arrange the chicken breasts in an even layer in the bottom of your slow cooker. If they’re thick, slice them in half lengthwise for even cooking.
Pour the salsa evenly over the chicken, making sure all pieces are well coated.
Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2½–3½ hours, until the chicken is fork-tender.
Shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks.
Add the cream cheese, stir gently, and cover again. Cook on LOW for 15–20 minutes, until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Stir well, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. A squeeze of lime juice can brighten the flavors.
Serve hot as desired.
Easy Serving Ideas:
Spoon over steamed rice or egg noodles for a hearty dinner
Fill tortillas or burritos with lettuce, corn, and extra salsa
Make a burrito bowl with cauliflower rice or shredded lettuce
Use leftovers for quesadillas, nachos, baked potatoes, or meal prep
Variations & Tips for Success:
Mild & kid-friendly: Use mild salsa or blend it smooth
Lighter option: Swap in reduced-fat cream cheese
Extra protein & fiber: Stir in black beans or pinto beans
Veggie boost: Add frozen corn or chopped bell peppers
More flavor: Sprinkle taco seasoning, cumin, or garlic powder
Make-ahead freezer meal: Freeze raw chicken and salsa together; add cream cheese after cooking
