These Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos are a tasty treat! Just toss chicken, spices, and some salsa into the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you relax.
It’s like having a taco party without all the fuss! I love serving these with fresh toppings like avocado and cheese for some extra yum. 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken is perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use chicken thighs for more flavor. Alternatively, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut!
Salsa: A cup of salsa adds moisture and flavor. I like using a mild or medium salsa, but if you enjoy a kick, go for hot salsa. You can also use fresh tomatoes or homemade salsa if you prefer a fresher taste!
Taco Seasoning: The packet of taco seasoning brings great flavor. If making your own, try using chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. Feel free to adjust the spices based on your taste.
Tortillas: Corn tortillas add authenticity, but flour tortillas work well too. If gluten-free, check for gluten-free tortillas. My personal pick is corn for the delicious crunch!
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken is Tender and Flavorful?
The cooking method in a slow cooker is essential for tender chicken. Here’s how to ensure your chicken comes out juicy and full of flavor:
- Combine the chicken, salsa, and taco seasoning in the slow cooker. Stir well to coat it all evenly.
- Don’t skip the olive oil! It keeps the chicken moist during cooking.
- For best results, cook on low heat for 6-8 hours—this slow cooking is key to tender meat!
- Once cooked, shred the chicken inside the cooker with two forks; mix it in with the juices for added flavor.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Filling:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa (preferably mild or medium)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 ounce)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Serving:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time, and then you’ll let your slow cooker do the work! You can choose to cook the chicken on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule. After cooking, you’ll need a few minutes to shred the chicken and assemble your tacos. In total, you’ll need around 6-8 hours including cooking time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In your slow cooker, place the chicken breasts. Pour the salsa over the chicken and sprinkle the taco seasoning on top. Use a spoon to stir everything together until the chicken is nicely coated with the salsa and seasoning. This will make it flavorful!
2. Add Some Moisture:
Next, drizzle the olive oil over the chicken mixture. This adds a little extra moisture, helping to keep the chicken juicy while it cooks.
3. Let the Slow Cooker Do Its Magic:
Cover your slow cooker with the lid. Set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and can be easily shredded with a fork. You’ll smell delicious aromas filling your kitchen as it cooks!
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred the meat right in the slow cooker. Mix it with the juices to add even more flavor. It’s going to look and smell amazing!
5. Prepare Your Garnishes:
While the chicken is cooking, you can get your toppings ready. Slice the avocado, thinly slice the red onion, and chop the fresh cilantro. You’ll want these ready to go to make your tacos extra tasty.
6. Warm Up the Tortillas:
To make your tortillas soft and flavorful, warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or you can pop them in the oven for a few minutes. This step makes a big difference in the taco experience!
7. Assemble Your Tacos:
To build your taco, take a warm tortilla and pile on a portion of the shredded chicken. Top it with slices of avocado, some red onion, and a sprinkle of cilantro. It’s all about creating a delicious mix of flavors and textures!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your tacos right away with lime wedges on the side so everyone can squeeze a little lime juice over their tacos for a fresh kick. Enjoy your homemade slow cooker chicken tacos!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours on low, or 30 minutes to 1 hour on high. Always check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety before shredding!
What Can I Substitute for Taco Seasoning?
If you don’t have taco seasoning, you can make your own! Mix together 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust the spices to taste!
How to Store Leftover Chicken Tacos?
Store any leftover shredded chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Just remember to keep the toppings separate until you’re ready to eat!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Tacos?
Absolutely! Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, corn, or black beans to the slow cooker along with the chicken for extra flavor and nutrition. Just chop them up and toss them in at the beginning!
