These Crockpot Shredded Chicken Tacos are super easy to make and packed with flavor! Just toss some chicken, spices, and a bit of salsa into your slow cooker, and let it do the work!
No need to stress about dinner when you can make these tasty tacos! I love piling them high with my favorite toppings. Who doesn’t love a taco night that basically cooks itself? 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. If you prefer a different protein, try using chicken thighs for a juicier result or even shredded beef or pork if you want something heartier.
Broth: Chicken broth adds depth to the flavor. Vegetable broth or even water can work in a pinch, though you might lose some richness. Homemade broth would be even tastier if you have it!
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought packets are convenient, but you can make your own with spices like cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder. It’s a fun way to control the flavor and adjust the heat to your liking.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles: If you can’t find this can, use plain diced tomatoes and add a pinch of jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to give it a kick. Fresh tomatoes work too, but you’ll miss that tangy flavor!
Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional, but flour tortillas are a great choice if you prefer them. Just warm them up lightly before filling to prevent tearing.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy and Tender?
The key to juicy, tender chicken is cooking it low and slow in the crockpot. Start by seasoning your chicken well to lock in flavors, then let it cook undisturbed until it’s perfectly tender.
- Set the crockpot to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time on low achieves the best results.
- Use two forks to shred the chicken gently, letting it mix with the flavorful juices in the pot before serving.
- Avoid opening the lid during cooking, as this can let steam escape and increase cooking time.
The Best Crockpot Shredded Chicken Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 ounce)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chiles (10 oz)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and requires 3-8 hours of cooking time, depending on whether you use the low or high setting on your crockpot. It’s the perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
In a large bowl, take your chicken breasts and sprinkle the taco seasoning over them. Use your hands to mix it well, ensuring that all the chicken is evenly coated in the spices. This is where the flavor starts!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes or until the onion becomes fragrant and translucent. This step adds a lovely depth of flavor to your dish.
3. Assemble in the Crockpot:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the crockpot. Pour in the chicken broth and add the can of diced tomatoes with green chiles on top. Then, spoon the sautéed onion and garlic mixture right over the chicken. It’s going to smell amazing!
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is super tender and shreds easily with a fork.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once your chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the crockpot and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Then, put the shredded chicken back in the crockpot and stir it around to mix with the delicious juices.
6. Warm the Tortillas:
While your chicken is soaking up the flavors, warm up your tortillas. You can do this in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few seconds on each side or in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds until they’re nice and pliable.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s taco time! Fill each tortilla with the shredded chicken and top it with diced tomatoes, red onion, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, sprigs of fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. Enjoy your tasty creations!
Your crockpot shredded chicken tacos are now ready to share (or keep all to yourself)! Have fun with the toppings and make it your own!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts, but you’ll need to add extra cooking time. Cook on high for about 5-6 hours or on low for 8-9 hours, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. For the best flavor, season the chicken before freezing, if possible.
What Can I Substitute for Taco Seasoning?
If you don’t have taco seasoning on hand, you can make your own! Use a mix of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt. A combination of these spices, about 2 tablespoons total, can easily replace a packet of taco seasoning.
How to Store Leftover Shredded Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze shredded chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing and thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Use Another Type of Meat?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with pork shoulder or beef brisket if you’re looking for a different flavor. Remember to adjust cooking times: pork will take about the same time as chicken, while beef may require a slightly longer cooking time to become tender.
