These Healthy Crockpot Chicken Tacos are super easy to make! Just toss chicken, spices, and some salsa into your crockpot and let it do the work. Yum!
I love how the chicken gets so tender and juicy. It makes taco night fun and guilt-free. Plus, clean-up is a breeze with just one pot to wash!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for a twist, feel free to swap in thighs for added flavor and moistness. Both work great in the slow cooker!
Black Beans: These add protein and fiber. If you’re out of black beans, kidney beans or pinto beans make great substitutes. Canned beans save time, but you can use dried ones, just remember they need pre-cooking.
Corn: Fresh corn is the tastiest, but frozen or canned corn is super convenient. If corn isn’t your thing, you can add diced bell peppers for a nice crunch and flavor without missing out on nutrients.
Salsa: Choose your favorite salsa for flavor! If you prefer less spice, go with a mild variety. You can even make your own fresh salsa using tomatoes, onions, lime juice, and cilantro!
Greek Yogurt/Sour Cream: I often use Greek yogurt for a healthier touch. If dairy’s not your thing, try avocado or a dairy-free yogurt! They give a nice creaminess without the calories.
How Do I Shred Chicken Quickly and Easily?
Shredding chicken can feel daunting, but it’s pretty simple! After cooking, your chicken should be so tender that it pulls apart with ease.
- Use two forks. Place one fork in the chicken and the other fork to pull apart the meat. It should come apart nicely.
- For a faster method, you can also use a hand mixer! Just mix on low speed to shred the chicken quickly.
- Make sure to mix the shredded chicken with beans, corn, and salsa to ensure all flavors blend well.
How to Make Healthy Crockpot Chicken Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup salsa (your choice of spiciness)
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (or more to taste)
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
Toppings:
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream (for topping)
- Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then cooks in the crockpot for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. So, you can set it up in the morning and enjoy delicious tacos for dinner with minimal fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Sprinkle the taco seasoning, salt, and pepper over the chicken to give it a delicious flavor. Don’t be shy with the seasoning if you love bold flavors!
2. Add the Mix-ins:
Next, pour the drained black beans, corn, and your favorite salsa right over the chicken in the crockpot. Make sure everything is evenly distributed; this will help all those yummy flavors meld together as it cooks.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Now, cover the crockpot with the lid. Cook the chicken on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender enough to shred easily. You’ll know it’s ready when it has an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, take two forks and shred it right in the crockpot. Mix the shredded chicken with the other ingredients until everything is well combined and coated in that tasty salsa mixture.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While the chicken mixture is still warm, take the tortillas and warm them up in a skillet for a minute on each side or microwave them for about 30 seconds until they are pliable and ready to hold all that delicious filling.
6. Assemble Your Tacos:
Time to build your tacos! Take a warm tortilla and spoon in the shredded chicken mixture. Top it off with diced tomatoes, red onion, a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream, and sprinkle on fresh cilantro for an extra touch of flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your healthy tacos with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze a little lime juice over your tacos just before taking a bite for that zesty finish. Enjoy your delicious and healthy crockpot chicken tacos!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to extend the cooking time. If using frozen, cook it on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. It’s important to ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before shredding.
What Can I Use Instead of Greek Yogurt?
If you’re not a fan of Greek yogurt, you can substitute it with regular sour cream, plain yogurt, or even avocado for a creamy topping. Each will provide a different flavor, so choose based on your preference!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover chicken taco mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little water or broth if it seems dry. Warm your tortillas separately for the best texture!
