Slow Cooker Lime Cilantro Chicken
This Slow Cooker Lime Cilantro Chicken is a bright, zesty, and effortless dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or easy meal prep.
With minimal ingredients and the hands-off ease of the slow cooker, you get tender, flavorful chicken infused with fresh lime juice, garlic, and cilantro.
Whether you serve it over rice, in tacos, or on a salad, it brings a refreshing, citrusy twist to your usual chicken routine.
Ingredients
1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Juice of 2 limes
Zest of 1 lime
½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup chicken broth
Optional: extra chopped cilantro and lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Place the chicken in the bottom of your slow cooker. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, lime zest, chopped cilantro, garlic, cumin, salt, pepper, and chicken broth.
Pour the mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
Once cooked, shred the chicken in the slow cooker and stir it to soak up all the juices. Serve with your choice of rice, tortillas, or vegetables, and garnish with extra cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
How to Make
Begin by layering the chicken in the slow cooker and covering it with a vibrant blend of lime juice, garlic, and fresh herbs.
The slow cooking process allows the flavors to deeply infuse into the meat, creating a juicy, shredded chicken that’s both light and savory.
Shredding the chicken directly in the slow cooker makes cleanup easy and ensures every bite is coated in the citrusy broth.
Variations
Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Swap the lime for lemon for a different citrus flavor, or add a splash of orange juice for a sweeter touch.
If you want it creamy, stir in a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving. Use this chicken in burrito bowls, tacos, wraps, or even lettuce cups for a low-carb option.
Tips
Use thighs for extra tenderness and flavor, especially if cooking on low. Don’t skip the lime zest—it adds a deeper citrus aroma that balances the acidity of the juice.
If your chicken produces a lot of liquid during cooking, remove some before shredding to prevent it from becoming too soupy. This dish also freezes well, so make extra for future meals.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Lime Cilantro Chicken is a simple yet vibrant dish that brings fresh, bold flavors to your table with barely any effort.
. It’s versatile, healthy, and perfect for busy days when you still want something homemade and delicious. Whether you pile it onto tacos or spoon it over rice, this recipe delivers brightness and comfort in every bite.
