These Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken Tacos are super easy and full of flavor! Just toss chicken, spice, and some salsa in a slow cooker, and let it work its magic.
I love how the chicken becomes so tender and tasty after a few hours. It’s like magic! Perfect for taco night, and the best part? You can top them however you like!
Whenever I make these tacos, I have a blast letting everyone pick their favorite toppings. It’s a taco party that’s fun and stress-free! Who doesn’t love that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe because they shred beautifully and soak up flavors. If you want to switch it up, try thighs for a richer taste or even turkey breasts if you’re looking for a leaner option.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth, but if you’re not a fan, you could use shallots or even green onions for a milder flavor. Onion powder can also work in a pinch!
Spices: The chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika are key for flavor. If you’re out of one, a dash of taco seasoning can replace them. For less heat, use mild paprika instead of smoked.
Tortillas: While corn tortillas are traditional, flour tortillas add a soft texture. Choose based on your preference or dietary needs, like using gluten-free tortillas if needed.
Cheese: Queso fresco gives a nice creaminess, but feta makes a great substitute with its tangy flavor. You could also skip cheese altogether for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Shred Chicken Perfectly in a Slow Cooker?
Shredding chicken in a slow cooker is easy, but there are some tricks to get it just right. First, it’s important to ensure your chicken is fully cooked and tender, which makes shredding a breeze.
- Use two forks positioned apart to pull the chicken apart. This helps to shred evenly.
- Keep the chicken in the juices while shredding, as this keeps it moist and flavorful.
- After shredding, mix the meat with the remaining juices to ensure every bite is delicious.
Let it sit a few minutes after shredding to soak up more flavor before serving. Trust me, it makes all the difference!
How to Make Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
For Assembling the Tacos:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup pickled red onions
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and will need 6-8 hours or 3-4 hours of cooking time, depending on your slow cooker settings. Just set it up in the morning and enjoy fragrant, tender shredded chicken by dinner time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts in your slow cooker. Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic on top. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Give it a little stir to mix everything together.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the slow cooker and cook the chicken on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is fully cooked and tender. You can step away and let the magic happen!
3. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it right in the slow cooker. Make sure to mix it well with the juices and spices in the pot so that every bite is flavorful!
4. Add Lime Juice:
Stir in the fresh lime juice and taste your chicken. You can add a little extra seasoning if you like. Let it sit for about 10 more minutes so it can soak up all those delicious flavors.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
While the chicken is resting, warm up your tortillas! You can do this on a skillet or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds—just enough to make them nice and pliable.
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to build your tacos. Take a warm tortilla and load it up with some of that shredded chicken. Top it off with diced tomatoes, pickled red onions, avocado slices, and crumbled queso fresco. Feel free to add as much as you like!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finish your tacos with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing. Enjoy your delightful slow cooker shredded chicken tacos!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time. If using frozen chicken breasts, cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours until fully cooked. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety before shredding.
What Can I Substitute for Tortillas?
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use lettuce leaves for a low-carb option or corn taco shells for a gluten-free alternative. Just make sure the shells are warmed up to enhance their flavor and texture before filling them!
How to Store Leftover Shredded Chicken?
Store leftover shredded chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, and it will last up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Yes! To add more heat, you can increase the chili powder or add some diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the slow cooker. If you’re sensitive to spice, consider using mild salsa or adding hot sauce to individual servings instead.
