Slow Cooker Salsa Verde Chicken Casserole (Anti-Inflammatory, High-Protein, Gluten-Free)
Description
This Slow Cooker Salsa Verde Chicken Casserole is a comforting, nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory meal packed with lean protein, fiber-rich beans, and antioxidant-loaded salsa verde. Made with tender shredded chicken, green chiles, black beans, sweet corn, and topped with melted cheese and creamy avocado, this dish delivers bold Mexican-inspired flavor while supporting gut health and reducing inflammation.
Perfect for healthy meal prep, weight loss diets, clean eating plans, and high-protein low-carb lifestyles, this casserole is gluten-free and easily adaptable to dairy-free and keto-friendly versions.
Why It’s Anti-Inflammatory
This recipe supports an anti-inflammatory diet thanks to:
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Lean chicken breast – High-quality protein for muscle recovery
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Salsa verde (tomatillos + green chilies) – Rich in antioxidants
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Garlic & onion – Natural immune-boosting compounds
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Black beans – Fiber for gut health
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Avocado – Heart-healthy monounsaturated fats
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Cilantro – Detox-supporting herb
Ingredients (Serves 6)
Protein Base
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2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 ½ cups salsa verde (no added sugar preferred)
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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1 teaspoon chili powder
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½ teaspoon turmeric (extra anti-inflammatory boost)
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon sea salt
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3 cloves garlic, minced
Casserole Add-Ins
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1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
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1 cup organic corn (fresh or frozen)
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1 small red onion, diced
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1 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
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½ cup plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free alternative)
Topping
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1 to 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican-blend cheese
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1 avocado, sliced
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Fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Layer the Base
Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Season with cumin, chili powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Add garlic and pour salsa verde over the top.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
Add black beans, corn, red onion, and diced tomatoes. Gently mix.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cook on:
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Low for 6–7 hours, or
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High for 3–4 hours
Chicken should be tender and easily shredded.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Remove chicken, shred with two forks, then return to the slow cooker.
Step 5: Make It Creamy
Stir in Greek yogurt for a creamy, protein-rich texture.
Step 6: Add Cheese
Sprinkle cheese on top. Cover and cook on low for 15–20 minutes until melted.
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Top with fresh avocado slices and chopped cilantro.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile healthy casserole pairs well with:
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Cauliflower rice (low-carb option)
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Brown rice or quinoa (whole-grain option)
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Gluten-free tortillas for tacos
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Over a bed of leafy greens for a high-protein salad bowl
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With roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers
Perfect for:
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Weekly meal prep containers
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Family dinners
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High-protein lunch ideas
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Post-workout recovery meals
Variations
Keto-Friendly Version
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Omit corn and beans
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Add diced zucchini or spinach
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Increase cheese and avocado
Dairy-Free Version
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Replace cheese with dairy-free shreds
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Substitute Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt
Spicy Version
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Add jalapeños or chipotle peppers in adobo
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Use hot salsa verde
Instant Pot Version
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Cook on High Pressure for 12 minutes
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Natural release for 10 minutes
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Shred and stir in yogurt
Vegetarian Option
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Replace chicken with chickpeas + extra black beans
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Add roasted sweet potatoes
Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)
Calories: 420
Protein: 42g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 8g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 520mg
High in:
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Lean protein
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Fiber
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Potassium
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Vitamin C
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Healthy fats
Low in:
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Refined carbs
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Added sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes. Thighs will create a juicier, slightly higher-fat version.
Is salsa verde healthy?
Yes, especially versions made from whole tomatillos and green chilies without added sugars.
Can I make it Whole30 compliant?
Omit beans, corn, cheese, and yogurt. Use compliant salsa verde and top with avocado.
Meal Prep & Storage Tips
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Divide into glass containers for grab-and-go lunches.
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Store avocado separately to prevent browning.
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Reheat with a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Salsa Verde Chicken Casserole is a powerful combination of comfort food and clean eating. It’s ideal for those following an anti-inflammatory diet, high-protein meal plan, gluten-free lifestyle, or healthy weight management program. The balance of lean protein, fiber, and healthy fats makes it satisfying without being heavy.
