Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely. Thighs are a little more forgiving and stay extra juicy. Cook time is similar, but they sometimes shred even easier.

Is this Cilantro Lime Chicken Crockpot Recipe spicy?

It’s more flavorful than spicy—warm and smoky. If you want heat, add cayenne, jalapeño, or hot sauce at the end.

Yes! This is a great make-ahead recipe. Cook, shred, cool, and store in the fridge so you can reheat during the week.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days . Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. If it thickens, add a splash of broth or water.

Yep. Let it cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2–3 months . Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat.

What if I don’t like cilantro?

First of all, I respect your honesty. Swap cilantro for parsley, or use a smaller amount and lean more on lime for brightness. You’ll still get a tasty slow cooker chicken.

Crockpot Cilantro Lime Chicken: Delicious 5-Star Win

Description

This Cilantro Lime Chicken Crockpot Recipe is a dump-and-go slow cooker dinner with tender shredded chicken in a zesty tomato-lime sauce—perfect for tacos, bowls, salads, or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can tomato sauce (15 oz)
1 bunch cilantro, chopped (reserve a little for topping if you want)
Juice of 1 lime
1 Tbsp chili powder
1 Tbsp cumin
1/2 tsp garlic salt
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

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Instructions

Add chicken breasts to the bottom of the crockpot (single layer if possible).
Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, garlic salt, salt, pepper, and chopped cilantro over the chicken.
Pour lime juice over the top.
Pour tomato sauce over everything.
Cook until the chicken shreds easily: Low 6–8 hours or High 3–4 hours.
Shred chicken in the crockpot using two forks, then stir into the sauce.
Serve warm (great with rice, tortillas, salads, or bowls).

Notes

If your chicken won’t shred easily, it needs a little more time—check again in 20–30 minutes.

For extra brightness, add an extra squeeze of lime right before serving.

Leftovers keep well and are perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, or salads.

Nutrition will vary depending on brands and serving size (values below are estimates, chicken only).

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Category: Dinner
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: Tex-Mex inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 190 kcal
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 620 mg
Fat: 4 g
Saturated Fat: 1 g
Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 8 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 30 g
Cholesterol: 85 mg