EASY SLOW-COOKER CHICKEN ROPA VIEJA

Easy Slow-Cooker Chicken Ropa Vieja image

When discussing various methods of cooking ropas, a friend of mine told me her sister adds apple juice. I thought a Granny Smith apple might give the dish an extra kick-and it does. The ropas may also be served with hominy or tortillas, but I think the plantains add a special touch. -Arlene Erlbach, Morton Grove, Illinois

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Dinner

Time 5h20m

Yield 6 Servings

Number Of Ingredients 13

Ingredients

2 medium sweet red peppers, sliced
1 medium Granny Smith apple, peeled and chopped
1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
1 cup chunky salsa
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
5 teaspoons adobo seasoning, divided
1-1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
3 to 6 teaspoons lime juice
1/4 cup butter
3 ripe plantains, peeled and thinly sliced into thin rounds
Optional: Hot cooked rice, lime wedges and additional fresh cilantro leaves

Steps:

Place the first 7 ingredients and 1 teaspoon adobo in a 5- or 6-quart slow cooker. Rub the remaining adobo seasoning over chicken; add to slow cooker. Cook, covered, on low until chicken is tender, 5-6 hours. Using 2 forks, shred chicken. Stir in lime juice to taste; heat through., Meanwhile, heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook plantains in batches until tender and golden brown, about 3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels., Serve chicken with plantains using a slotted spoon. If desired, serve with rice, lime wedges and cilantro.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 387 calories, Fat 16g fat (7g saturated fat), Cholesterol 96mg cholesterol, Sodium 1428mg sodium, Carbohydrate 39g carbohydrate (20g sugars, Fiber 4g fiber), Protein 23g protein.