Simplest Crockpot Salsa Chicken

There has never been a simpler, more delicious recipe. We love this chicken on top of salads, baked in tacos, or eaten just as is with some tortilla chips and extra salsa. In the summertime, you could certainly make your own salsa but I never plan that far ahead so I use a jarred salsa - I like Mateo’s because the flavor is good and there is no added sugar. I do make my own taco seasoning though to avoid unnecessary additives or sugar and keep it in a sealed container in the pantry. Make this one tomorrow - it’s a winner.

Ingredients:

2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless, skinless

1 jar Mateo’s Mild Salsa

2 Tbsp Taco Seasoning

Directions:

Put everything in the crockpot and mix. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6-8 hours until chicken shreds easily with 2 forks.

Cherry Almond Smoothie

I like to keep my smoothies on a fresh rotation and after WAAAYYY too much birthday celebration sugar, my body was screaming for a nutrient-rich smoothie. So I made this smoothie approximately 5 times in the past 5 days - and it was delicious every single one of those times (and it just looks so beautiful and neutral with the falling leaves on our porch). The addition of the almond extract really gives it a little something extra so do not leave that out! Here’s how I did it and what’s working in your body.

Ingredients:

(this makes 1 large or 2 small smoothies)

1 large handful spinach or kale (I keep a giant zip-top bag of both in my freezer and just grab out a handful)

1/2 - 1 frozen banana

1/2 - 1 cup frozen cherries

1 Tbsp chia seeds

1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (I used vanilla flavored)

1 scoop collagen peptides

1/4 tsp almond extract

If you prefer it a little sweeter, add 1/2 Tbsp honey or 1 date

Directions: Place all ingredients in high speed blender and blend until smooth.

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Greens - support brain health and overall healthy body function; spinach is a good source of iron, vitamin K, vitamin A, and vitamin C to support immunity and kale provides a good source of fiber and B vitamins among many other nutrients

Banana - rich in fiber, antioxidants, and nutrients such as potassium and magnesium

Cherries - good source of beta carotene, vitamin C, and antioxidants anthocyanin and quercetin, which work together to prevent cancer and promote longevity

Chia Seeds - nutrient-dense with fiber, protein and omega-3 fatty acids along with an extensive profile of other vitamins and minerals

Collagen - supports healthy gut, heart and bones and has been shown to improve the appearance of skin, hair, and nails; also provides extra protein and supports weight management