Slow Cooker Fiesta Chicken and Shrimp Rice Bowl

Slow Cooker Fiesta Chicken Shrimp Easy Burrito Bowl

By Laura TideSeptember 23, 2025Updated: September 22, 2025

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Fancy a fiesta without the fuss? Ever wondered if you could have a Slow Cooker Fiesta Chicken meal waiting for you after a long day? This recipe is your answer! It's bursting with Southwest flavours and incredibly easy.

Brief Overview

This recipe brings a taste of Mexico to your kitchen. It is a super easy meal, perfect for throwing in the slow cooker on a busy morning.

This Slow Cooker Chicken Recipe serves about 6 people.

Main Benefits

This recipe is loaded with protein and veggies. It's a fantastic option for a family dinner or a casual get-together.

Honestly, what makes this recipe special is its simplicity. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work!

Okay, cheerio! Right, let's get to work sprucing up this recipe. This Fiesta Chicken Slow Cooker dish is about to become a staple.

Why This Recipe Rocks?

I remember the first time I tried this. My husband couldn't stop raving about it! This Easy Slow Cooker Dinner is packed with flavour.

The Southwest Slow Cooker Recipe brings the heat. It is that good!

It's a total "dump and go" recipe. Just toss everything in the slow cooker and walk away. Seriously, it is one of my favorite Dump and Go Chicken Recipes .

What You'll Need

To make this Crockpot Fiesta Chicken , you'll need some basics. Like chicken, shrimp, and rice of course! You will also need onions, carrots, tomatoes, and spices.

Don't forget the Pico de Gallo!

Ingredients & Equipment for Your Fiesta

Okay, cheerio! Right, let's get to work sprucing up this Slow Cooker Fiesta Chicken recipe. This is going to be epic! This recipe is all about ease and flavour.

The list is manageable and the end result? You’ll be singing its praises.

Main Ingredients

One large onion, chopped ( 1 cup or 150g )
8 oz baby carrots, chopped (or a small bag shredded) ( 225g )
Two tablespoons minced garlic (from a jar) ( 30ml )
One 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes (garlic & basil) ( 411g )
One tablespoon fresh oregano, diced (or 1 teaspoon dried) ( 5g fresh, 2g dried)
One tablespoon fresh basil, diced (or 1 teaspoon dried) ( 5g fresh, 2g dried)
Salt and pepper to taste
Three boneless, skinless chicken breasts ( 1.5 lbs or 680g )
1 pound raw shrimp, shelled and deveined ( 450g )
2 cups cooked rice ( 400g )
8 oz Pico de Gallo ( 225g )

Quality Indicators: For the chicken, look for plump breasts that are pink, not grey. For the shrimp, make sure they smell fresh and aren't slimy.

This Southwest Slow Cooker Recipe deserves the best. Honestly, good quality ingredients make all the difference.

Seasoning Notes: Spice It Up!

This is where the "fiesta" comes in!. We're making Mexican Inspired Slow Cooker magic.

Essential Spice Combinations: The oregano and basil are key, but don't be shy with the salt and pepper. You can even add a pinch of cumin for an extra kick.
Flavor Enhancers and Aromatics: The garlic and basil canned tomatoes add depth. You know, like the kind that makes your house smell amazing?
Quick Substitution Options: No fresh herbs? No problem. Dried herbs work just fine. Just remember that dried herbs pack more punch, so use less. Easy Slow Cooker Dinner , sorted.

Equipment Needed

Essential Tools Only: A 6-quart or larger slow cooker .
Common Household Alternatives: A knife and cutting board. Measuring cups and spoons.

I remember the first time I made this Crockpot Fiesta Chicken . I didn't have a slow cooker and tried it in a pot.

It didn't work. Get a slow cooker! It is life changing. You know?, It is the easiest Dump and Go Chicken Recipe

Slow Cooker Chicken Recipe ? Check! Fiesta Chicken Slow Cooker ? Double check! This Slow Cooker Chicken and Shrimp is going to be a winner.

And guess what? You can even turn it into a Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowl .

Right, that's everything you need. Cheerio!

The Magic of the Slow Cooker

Right, let's get to work sprucing up this recipe with some smashing ! Slow Cooker Chicken Recipe , here we come! This ain't just cooking; it's an art form, innit? Think about how you can chuck everything in, set it, and forget it.

That's the easy slow cooker dinner dream.

Prep Steps for Fiesta Flavors

Essential mise en place is key, my friend. Roughly chop one large onion. Chop eight ounces of baby carrots. You can use pre-shredded if you want a shortcut.

Measure out two tablespoons of minced garlic. Got it? Good. Okay, cheerio!

Time saving tip: Prep all your veggies the night before. Stick them in a container in the fridge. You will thank yourself later.

Unleash the Flavor: The Fiesta Chicken Process

Spray your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. Nobody wants a stuck-on mess.
Dump in the chopped onion, carrots, minced garlic. Pour in one can of diced tomatoes. Add one tablespoon of oregano and basil. Season with salt and pepper.
Lay three boneless, skinless chicken breasts on top of that flavourful veg medley.
Cover and cook on low for 6- 7 hours . This is where the magic happens!
Add one pound of shrimp and two cups of cooked rice to the slow cooker .
Turn to high and cook for 30 minutes , or until the shrimp is pink and cooked through. Don't overcook!
Shred the chicken with a fork.
Serve topped with eight ounces of Pico de Gallo.

Pro Tips for Slow Cooker Success

Honestly, the biggest mistake? Overcooking the shrimp! They turn rubbery. Watch them carefully.

Expert tip: Use fresh herbs if you can. They make a huge difference. If you only have dried, use about one teaspoon instead of one tablespoon.

Why not try making this ahead? You can prep all the ingredients the night before. This dump and go chicken recipe will be even faster.

This slow cooker fiesta chicken is a game changer. Imagine coming home to that incredible smell! Plus, it's way healthier and tastier than takeout.

Give it a go! You won't regret it. Think of this Crockpot fiesta chicken as your secret weapon for busy weeknights.

Plus, this Southwest slow cooker recipe is incredibly versatile.

You can also make a Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowl .

If you really want to turn up the heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Recipe Notes for Your Slow Cooker Fiesta Chicken Adventure

Okay, cheerio! Right, let's get to work sprucing up this recipe with some smashing . This isn't just cooking; it's a flavour fiesta! Honestly, sometimes the best part about a recipe is knowing all the little tricks to make it your own.

So, here are my notes to help you master this Slow Cooker Fiesta Chicken .

Serving Suggestions: Presentation is Key, Mate!

Plating matters! This Fiesta Chicken Slow Cooker looks great served family style in a big bowl. Otherwise, individual bowls are fantastic.

Garnish with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and a wedge of lime. For sides, try some crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce or a simple green salad for a bit of freshness.

A chilled Corona with a lime wedge would be spot on! It pairs perfectly with this Mexican Inspired Slow Cooker dish.

Storage Tips: Keep It Fresh

Got leftovers? No worries! This Slow Cooker Chicken Recipe keeps well. Once cooled, store the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge.

It'll be good for 3-4 days . You can also freeze it for up to 3 months . Thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

When reheating, add a splash of water or chicken broth to keep it moist.

Variations: Make It Your Own!

Fancy a change? This Easy Slow Cooker Dinner is super versatile!

Dietary Adaptations: For a lighter version, use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. It's a fab way to cut down on carbs. If you're dairy-free, skip the sour cream and use avocado instead.
Seasonal Swaps: In the summer, add some grilled corn kernels for extra sweetness. In the winter, try some butternut squash for a hearty touch. Remember, you can even turn it into Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowl !

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite

This Dump and Go Chicken Recipe is packed with protein. Chicken and shrimp are lean sources. It is also loaded with veggies for vitamins.

It’s a relatively healthy meal. The carbs come from the rice. Keep in mind that Pico de Gallo adds vitamins too! This Crockpot Fiesta Chicken is a winner!

Well, that’s it, that's all. Honestly, don’t be intimidated by cooking. Give this recipe a go. You'll be amazed at how easy and delicious it is.

Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Slow Cooker Fiesta Chicken ahead of time?

You sure can! This Slow Cooker Fiesta Chicken is fantastic for meal prepping. Cook it completely, let it cool, and then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

My shrimp is always rubbery! How do I prevent overcooking in this Slow Cooker Fiesta Chicken recipe?

Ah, the dreaded rubbery shrimp! The key is timing. Because shrimp cooks so quickly, only add it during the last 30 minutes on high heat. Watch it carefully; as soon as it turns pink and opaque, it's done. Overcooked shrimp can be tougher than a bouncer outside a dodgy nightclub, so keep a close eye on it!

I don't have Pico de Gallo. Is there a substitute I can use in my Slow Cooker Fiesta Chicken?

Absolutely! Pico de Gallo adds a fresh, zesty kick, but if you don't have any, a good quality salsa will do the trick nicely. You could also chop up some tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice for a similar fresh flavor profile. Get creative it's your kitchen, mate!

Can I adapt the Slow Cooker Fiesta Chicken recipe to be vegetarian or lower in carbs?

Definitely! To make it vegetarian, swap out the chicken and shrimp for a can of black beans and a can of corn. For a lower carb version, serve the mixture over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. It's a simple swap that cuts down on the carbs without sacrificing flavor!

How can I add a bit of a kick to my Slow Cooker Fiesta Chicken?

Want to spice things up a bit? Easy peasy! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the slow cooker at the beginning of cooking. For a fresher kick, dice a jalapeño (remove the seeds for less heat) and throw it in with the other vegetables. You could even add a dash of your favorite hot sauce when serving.

What are the best toppings or sides to serve with Slow Cooker Fiesta Chicken?

This dish is so versatile! Fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice are always a winner. For extra richness, add a dollop of guacamole or avocado slices. Tortilla chips are great for scooping, or you could serve it with a side of Mexican street corn for a real fiesta vibe. Get creative and have fun with it!