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A Cozy, Slow Cooker Dinner (Plus, Charlie’s New Favorite Snack! 🍫)

Author

Cara Jorgensen
April 01, 2025

Hey friend,

Charlie and I had a little kitchen first this week—we made something together! It was just a simple no-bake bar recipe, but to him, it was serious business. He was very proud of his job pouring the nuts into the bowl… but even more excited about the dates. Every time I turned around, another one had mysteriously disappeared—straight into his mouth! Turns out, he loves dates. Who knew?

These bars were so good, and it got me thinking—sometimes, the best meals are the easiest ones. No stress, no fuss, just simple, nourishing food. So, this week, I’m sharing the recipe for those delicious No-Bake German Chocolate Bliss Bars, along with a set-it-and-forget-it dinner: Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken Tacos! Plus, a quick snack idea, a peek at what’s in season, and a simple meal plan for the week. Let’s dive in!

I love this meal! I made it for a big group recently, and by the end of the night, it was completely gone. Super easy, super yummy, and perfect for a crowd. Just toss everything into the slow cooker (or Instant Pot), and let it do the work. Dinner’s served!

👉 What you’ll need:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 1 cup salsa

  • 1 packet taco seasoning

  • Juice of one lime

  • ½ cup water or chicken broth

👉 How to make it:
1️⃣ Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
1️⃣ Instant Pot: Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, then quick release.
2️⃣ Shred the chicken with two forks and stir.
3️⃣ Serve in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings!

🍏 Quick Snack Idea: Apple Nachos

For a super easy, delicious snack, slice an apple and drizzle with peanut butter and a sprinkle of granola. A little cinnamon or chocolate chips make it even better!

🍓 What’s in Season?

Eating in-season produce makes meals fresher and more flavorful! Right now in SD, look for:
Fruits: Apples, pears, citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruits, lemons, limes).
Veggies: Root veggies (carrots, beets, radishes), kale, spinach, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and asparagus (starting late March).

📅 Weekly Meal Plan

🍫 No-Bake German Chocolate Bliss Bars

👉 Ingredients:

  • 1 cup pistachios

  • 1 cup sliced almonds (plus extra for topping)

  • 15 pitted Medjool dates

  • ¾ cup unsweetened shredded coconut

  • 1 ½ tsp pure vanilla extract

  • ¼ tsp pure almond extract

  • 2 tbsp cacao powder

  • ½ tsp salt

👉 For the chocolate drizzle:

  • ¼ cup dairy-free semisweet chocolate chips

  • 1 ½ tsp coconut oil

👉 How to make them:
1️⃣ Blend all ingredients (except the chocolate drizzle) in a food processor until sticky and combined.
2️⃣ Press the mixture into a lined 8x8 pan.
3️⃣ Melt chocolate chips and coconut oil, then drizzle over the top.
4️⃣ Sprinkle extra almonds, coconut, and a pinch of salt for a pretty and delicious finish.
5️⃣ Refrigerate until firm, then cut into bars and enjoy!

Let’s Chat!

I’d love to hear how your Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken Tacos turn out or if you give these bars a try! Do you have a go-to, no-stress meal? Hit reply and let me know—I love swapping ideas!

Best,
Cara