Name: Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-486591H38M34S
Total time: PT-486591H38M34S
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning); 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (optional for extra flavor); 1/2 cup chicken broth or water; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Soft flour or corn tortillas (for serving); Toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, guacamole, and salsa

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Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos are the perfect solution for a stress-free, flavorful dinner. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can have tender, seasoned chicken ready to serve in tacos, burritos, or salads. This recipe makes taco night a breeze, offering juicy chicken that’s bursting with Mexican-inspired flavors. It’s the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, parties, or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos are incredibly easy to make and full of flavor. The slow cooking process helps the chicken become incredibly tender, allowing it to soak up all the delicious seasoning. This recipe is highly customizable—feel free to adjust the seasonings or toppings to suit your preferences. Whether you’re serving them in soft tortillas or using them as a filling for burritos, nachos, or bowls, these chicken tacos will quickly become a family favorite. Plus, they’re great for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy taco night anytime during the week.

Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (optional for extra flavor)
1/2 cup chicken broth or water
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Soft flour or corn tortillas (for serving)
Toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, guacamole, and salsa

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the slow cooker.
Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the taco seasoning, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken. Add the lime juice, chicken broth (or water), and the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (if using).
Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. Stir the shredded chicken to mix with the juices and seasonings.
Assemble the Tacos: Warm the tortillas and fill them with the shredded chicken. Add your favorite taco toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, and salsa.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8 tacos (depending on serving size)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 3-7 hours (depending on slow cooker setting)
Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes to 7 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce to the slow cooker for a spicier version.
Flavor Boost: Try adding a chopped onion, bell pepper, or even a small can of green chilies to the slow cooker for extra flavor and texture.
Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken: Add your favorite jarred salsa in place of the diced tomatoes for a different twist.
Shredded Chicken Bowls: Serve the chicken over rice, lettuce, or in a burrito bowl with all the same taco toppings.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover shredded chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or heat it on the stove over low heat until warmed through. If the chicken seems dry, add a splash of water or chicken broth to help moisten it.

Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs in the slow cooker. Just note that you may need to increase the cooking time by an hour or so.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great in this recipe. They’re more flavorful and tend to stay juicier, making them a perfect option for slow cooking.

3. Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes, you can cook the chicken on high for 3-4 hours instead of 6-7 hours on low. Both methods will yield tender, flavorful chicken.

4. Can I add more vegetables to the slow cooker?

Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, onions, or even corn to the slow cooker for added flavor and texture.

5. How do I shred the chicken after cooking?

Simply use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. The chicken should be tender enough to shred easily once it’s fully cooked.

6. Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes! Add jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or some hot sauce to the slow cooker for a spicier version. You can also top the tacos with fresh sliced jalapeños for extra heat.

7. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the shredded chicken for up to 2-3 months. Just store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and heat on the stove or in the microwave.

8. What can I serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos?

These tacos pair well with a side of Mexican rice, chips and guacamole, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them as part of a taco bar with various toppings.

9. Can I use this chicken for other dishes?

Yes, this chicken can be used in burritos, nachos, taco salads, or even as a topping for quesadillas or rice bowls.

10. Can I use homemade taco seasoning?

Yes, homemade taco seasoning works perfectly in this recipe. You can make your own using a blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos are a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy taco night without the hassle. With juicy, flavorful chicken that’s perfect for tacos, burritos, or bowls, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. The slow cooker does all the work, and the result is a meal that’s both satisfying and customizable. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, these tacos are a guaranteed hit!