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–+ servings
Crockpot Chicken Tacos 1

Crockpot Chicken Tacos

These slow cooker shredded chicken tacos require just minutes of active preparation time while delivering restaurant-quality results that the whole family will devour. If you're looking for a foolproof meal that practically cooks itself while you handle life's demands, this crockpot chicken tacos recipe might just become your new weeknight hero.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Slow Cook Option 8 hours
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 8 servings
Calories 165 kcal

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker/Crockpot
  • Forks for Shredding

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for more moisture
  • 1 packet taco seasoning 1 oz, or 3 tablespoons homemade seasoning
  • 1 cup salsa mild, medium, or hot according to preference
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
  • 1 can diced green chiles 4 oz, optional for extra flavor
  • 2 cloves garlic minced, or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 small onion diced, optional
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice adds brightness to the finished dish

For Serving (Optional)

  • corn or flour tortillas
  • fresh cilantro
  • diced onions
  • sliced avocado or guacamole
  • cotija cheese or queso fresco
  • lime wedges

Instructions
 

  • Gather all ingredients before starting. For maximum flavor development, use refrigerated chicken rather than frozen.
  • Place chicken breasts in an even layer at the bottom of your slow cooker. Spreading them out rather than stacking them ensures more even cooking and flavor distribution.
  • Sprinkle taco seasoning evenly over the chicken, then pour salsa and broth around (not directly on) the chicken pieces.
  • Add green chiles, garlic, and onion if using, distributing them evenly for consistent flavor.
  • Cover the slow cooker and set to low for 7-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
  • Once cooking is complete, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot. The meat should pull apart easily.
  • After shredding, stir the chicken to ensure it absorbs the remaining sauce. Add lime juice and adjust seasonings to taste.
  • Let it simmer on low for an additional 15-20 minutes with the lid off to reduce excess liquid and concentrate flavors.
  • Serve with warm tortillas and your choice of toppings like fresh cilantro, diced onions, avocado, cheese, and lime wedges.

Notes

This chicken filling can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months in airtight containers.
For a healthier version, use homemade taco seasoning to control sodium levels, and serve on lettuce cups instead of tortillas.
Repurpose leftovers into enchiladas, quesadillas, or taco salads for variety.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Nutrition

Calories: 165kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 24gFat: 6gSodium: 420mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2g
Keyword Chicken Tacos, Crockpot Tacos, Slow Cooker Chicken, Easy Dinner, Meal Prep
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