These Easy Healthy Crockpot Chicken Tacos are perfect for busy days! Just toss chicken, salsa, and spices into your crockpot, and let it do all the work for you.
It’s so simple! I love to serve them with fresh toppings like avocado and cilantro. Plus, they’re healthier than traditional tacos—win-win!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe. You can substitute with chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier option. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Salsa: Use your favorite salsa—mild, medium, or spicy. If you’re out of salsa, you can blend fresh tomatoes with some spices for a quick homemade version. Fresh pico de gallo can also add a nice touch!
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought taco seasoning is convenient, but you can make your own using chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. This allows you to control the salt and spice level.
Tortillas: Whole wheat or corn tortillas are great for a healthier option. If you want to go lower-carb, consider using lettuce wraps instead. They’re crunchy and fresh!
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Shredded?
Shredding chicken in the crockpot is super easy! The trick is to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and tender, which typically happens after 6-7 hours on low. Here’s how to shred it easily:
- Once the cooking time is up, use two forks to pull the chicken apart right in the crockpot.
- Mix it with the cooking juices so it stays moist and flavorful.
- If you find the chicken isn’t shredding easily, it might need another 30 minutes of cooking.
Keep the shredded chicken mixed with the sauce to add even more flavor when you serve it in your tortillas!
Easy Healthy Crockpot Chicken Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa (choose your favorite, mild or spicy)
- 1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Whole wheat or corn tortillas, for serving
- Optional toppings: diced avocado, chopped cilantro, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, low-fat shredded cheese, lime wedges, plain Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus cooking time of 6 to 7 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high in the crockpot. Simply set it and forget it until you’re ready to enjoy delicious tacos!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. Make sure they are evenly spaced so they can cook properly.
2. Season the Chicken
Next, sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the chicken. This adds delicious flavor! If you’re using homemade seasoning, mix it well before sprinkling.
3. Add Aromatics
If you’re using onion and garlic, sprinkle the chopped onion and minced garlic over the chicken, spreading them out evenly. These will infuse the chicken with extra flavor as it cooks.
4. Pour on the Salsa & Broth
Now, pour the salsa and chicken broth (or water) over everything in the crockpot. This will keep the chicken moist and create a tasty sauce!
5. Cook the Chicken
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. You know it’s ready when the chicken is fully cooked and easy to shred.
6. Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the crockpot. Mix it in with the sauce to ensure every bite is flavorful!
7. Warm the Tortillas
While the chicken is being shredded, warm your tortillas. You can do this in a skillet over low heat, in the microwave for a few seconds, or even in the oven.
8. Assemble Your Tacos
Now it’s time to assemble your tacos! Take a warm tortilla, add a generous portion of the shredded chicken, and top it off with your favorite toppings like avocado, cilantro, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and a squirt of lime juice. A dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream makes it even better!
Enjoy your simple, healthy, and flavorful crockpot chicken tacos!
FAQ for Easy Healthy Crockpot Chicken Tacos
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure to throw them in the crockpot directly, but increase the cooking time by about 1 to 2 hours on low, or 30 minutes on high, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the chicken with taco seasoning, salsa, onion, and garlic the night before and store it in the fridge. Just pop it into the crockpot the next day, and you’re ready to go!
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover shredded chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist if needed!
Can I Customize the Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to customize toppings based on your preferences. Try adding black beans, corn, jalapeños, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese for a unique twist. Enjoy experimenting!
