Slow cooker chicken tacos have become my absolute weeknight lifesaver! On those crazy evenings when getting dinner on the table feels like an Olympic sport, this recipe is my secret weapon. I remember one particularly hectic Tuesday; the kids were buzzing with energy, and I was exhausted. I tossed everything into the slow cooker that morning, and by dinnertime, the aroma of juicy, tender chicken with a hint of sweet and spicy filled the house. These easy slow cooker chicken tacos are so hands-off, they’re practically a “dump and go chicken tacos slow cooker” meal. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love These Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos
You’ll wonder how you ever lived without this recipe! Here’s why:
- Incredible Taste: The chicken comes out so juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor.
- Minimal Effort: Seriously, it’s a game-changer for busy weeknights. Just toss and go!
- Healthy Choice: Packed with lean protein, it’s a satisfying and nutritious meal.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, common ingredients that won’t break the bank.
- Family Approved: Even picky eaters will devour these delicious crock pot chicken tacos.
- Super Versatile: Perfect for tacos, but also amazing in burritos or as a taco bowl base.
- Effortless Prep: Making easy shredded chicken tacos has never been simpler.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos
Gathering these ingredients is the first step to creating the best slow cooker chicken taco filling. You’ll need:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts – this lean protein is key for a healthy meal
- 1 (1 ounce) packet taco seasoning – this is where all the main flavor comes from!
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained – these add a lovely zesty kick and help create the sauce
- 1/2 cup salsa – for extra moisture and a touch of spice
- 1/4 cup chicken broth – ensures everything stays moist
- 1 tablespoon lime juice – brightens up all the flavors
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Taco shells or tortillas – for serving
- Toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, guacamole, salsa – customize to your heart’s content!
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos
Creating these delicious crock pot shredded chicken tacos is incredibly simple. Just follow these easy steps for a flavor-packed meal!
- Step 1: Start by placing your 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts directly into your slow cooker.
- Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk together the 1 (1 ounce) packet taco seasoning, 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained, 1/2 cup salsa, 1/4 cup chicken broth, 1 tablespoon lime juice, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon onion powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 3: Pour this zesty mixture evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring it’s mostly covered for even cooking.
- Step 4: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on the low setting for 6 to 8 hours, or on the high setting for 3 to 4 hours. You’re looking for the chicken to be cooked through and so tender that it can be easily shredded.
- Step 5: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker. Place them on a cutting board or in a shallow bowl.
- Step 6: Using two forks, shred the chicken until it’s nicely pulled apart. This is key for achieving perfect shredded chicken tacos slow cooker style.
- Step 7: Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Stir it into the flavorful sauce, making sure every piece is coated. This creates the ultimate slow cooker chicken taco filling.
- Step 8: Serve your tender, flavorful chicken hot in your favorite taco shells or tortillas with all your desired toppings. Enjoy your easy meal!
Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make these slow cooker chicken tacos absolutely perfect every time. These tips will help you get the most flavor and the best texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the slow cooker; give the chicken and liquid space to cook evenly.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lime juice or a pinch of chipotle powder to the liquid.
- Always shred the chicken while it’s still warm; it makes the process so much easier.
- Taste and adjust seasonings before serving – sometimes the chicken needs a little extra salt or spice.
What’s the secret to perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos?
The real secret to achieving those amazing juicy slow cooker chicken tacos is ensuring the chicken is fully submerged in the liquid. This guarantees even cooking and prevents the chicken from drying out, resulting in incredibly tender meat. For more information on slow cooking techniques, you can check out resources on slow cooker basics.
Can I make Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken filling up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep, and you can easily reheat it when you’re ready for your make ahead chicken tacos slow cooker meal.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos?
A common pitfall is overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry. Check for tenderness rather than relying solely on time. Also, ensure you have enough liquid to cover the chicken; if not, add a bit more broth or water. Finally, don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving to ensure a robust flavor.
Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos
Once your chicken is perfectly cooked and shredded, the possibilities for serving are endless! These slow cooker chicken tacos are incredibly versatile. My favorite way is, of course, in warm taco shells or tortillas, piled high with your favorite toppings. But don’t stop there! This flavorful filling is also fantastic stuffed into burritos or served over a bed of fluffy cilantro-lime rice for a satisfying taco bowl. When deciding what to serve with slow cooker chicken tacos, consider classic sides like seasoned black beans or a fresh corn salsa to round out the meal.
Nutrition Facts for Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos
Let’s talk about what goes into this delicious meal. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving for these fantastic slow cooker chicken tacos:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes used. For more detailed nutritional information, you can consult resources like the MyFitnessPal database.
How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos
One of the best things about this recipe is how well the slow cooker chicken taco filling stores, making it perfect for meal prep. Once the chicken has cooled completely, transfer it to airtight containers. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it for longer, it freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. This truly makes it a fantastic make ahead chicken tacos slow cooker option for busy weeks!
When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious chicken again, reheating is a breeze. For a quick option, microwave the chicken in a microwave-safe dish until heated through, stirring halfway. On the stovetop, gently warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it moist. You can also reheat it in a low oven, around 300°F (150°C), covered, until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos
Can I use chicken thighs for Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative and often add even more moisture and rich flavor to your slow cooker chicken tacos. They are a bit more forgiving if you accidentally overcook them, making them a great choice for beginners. If you’re aiming for healthy slow cooker chicken tacos, you can opt for boneless, skinless thighs, which are still quite lean.
How do I make my Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos spicier?
If you love a kick, you can easily amp up the heat! For spicier slow cooker chicken tacos, I recommend adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely minced jalapeño pepper to the slow cooker along with the other liquids. You can also use a spicier salsa or add a dash of hot sauce to the mix. Don’t forget that toppings like pico de gallo or pickled jalapeños can add extra heat when serving!
Can I use frozen chicken for Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe, but it’s important to adjust the cooking time. Frozen chicken will take longer to cook through. I’d recommend adding at least an extra hour to the low setting or an extra hour to the high setting. Always ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety. Understanding safe cooking temperatures is crucial for all recipes, as outlined by the USDA.
Variations of Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic slow cooker chicken tacos, you might want to experiment with different flavors and dietary needs. These variations will keep taco night exciting!
- Spicy Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos: For those who love a fiery kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely diced jalapeño to the slow cooker. Using a spicier salsa or a dollop of chipotle crema when serving also works wonders.
- Vegetarian Tacos: Swap out the chicken for two cans of black beans (drained and rinsed) or a mix of beans and corn. You might need to adjust the liquid slightly, but the taco seasoning still creates a delicious vegetarian filling.
- Instant Pot Version: No time for the slow cooker? You can make these in your Instant Pot! Use the “Poultry” setting or cook on high pressure for about 10-12 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 5 minutes.
- Smoky Chipotle Flavor: Add 1-2 tablespoons of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (chopped) or a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the liquid mixture for a deeper, smoky taste.
Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos Magic: 1 Amazing Meal
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Make the best slow cooker chicken tacos with this easy, flavor-packed recipe! Juicy, tender shredded chicken is slow-cooked in a sweet and spicy marinade, perfect for tacos, burritos, or meal prep. This simple crockpot chicken recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, game day, or family taco night.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (1 ounce) packet taco seasoning
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Taco shells or tortillas
- Toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, guacamole, salsa
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, combine taco seasoning, diced tomatoes and green chilies, salsa, chicken broth, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Remove chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat with the sauce.
- Serve the slow cooker shredded chicken in taco shells or tortillas with your favorite toppings.
Notes
- For spicy slow cooker chicken tacos, use a hotter salsa or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Ensure chicken is fully submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
- Leftover slow cooker chicken taco filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-8 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 4 oz chicken with taco seasoning)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
