Get ready for some tasty vibes with these Crock Pot Chicken Tacos! You just throw everything in the pot—chicken, spices, and maybe some salsa—and let it cook low and slow.
The best part? You come back to perfectly shredded chicken, ready to pile high in your favorite tortillas. Perfect for busy days when you want yummy food without the fuss!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook tender in the slow cooker. If you want, you can use thighs for a juicier option or even turkey if you’re looking for a leaner choice.
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought seasoning is convenient, but homemade is often tastier. Combine chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and oregano for a personalized mix. Feel free to adjust spices to your taste or spice level!
Salsa: For an extra kick, consider using a spicier salsa or fresh pico de gallo. If you prefer mild flavors, a standard tomato salsa will work perfectly. You can also blend your favorite salsa recipe at home.
Black Beans and Corn: Both are optional but add great texture. You can substitute black beans with pinto beans or kidney beans. If you don’t have corn, diced bell peppers add a nice crunch.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are soft and easy to roll, but corn tortillas are gluten-free and give a nice flavor. You can also use lettuce wraps for a low-carb option!
Toppings: Customize your toppings based on preference. I love adding fresh jalapeños for heat. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, green onions are a great alternative.
How Do I Shred Chicken Perfectly in the Crock Pot?
Shredding chicken might seem tricky, but it’s easy if you follow these steps! The crock pot does all the hard work, making the chicken super tender.
- Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the lid to avoid steam burns.
- Use two forks to pull apart the chicken in the pot. The chicken should fall apart easily.
- Mix it back into the juices in the pot for extra flavor.
- Taste and add more seasoning if needed, as sometimes extra salt or spices can elevate the dish.
How to Make Crock Pot Chicken Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 cup salsa
For Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned, drained)
For Assembling the Tacos:
- 8 small flour tortillas (or corn tortillas)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (for topping)
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced (for topping)
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for topping)
- 1 avocado, sliced (optional, for topping)
- Sour cream (optional, for serving)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, and then you’ll need to let it cook in the crock pot for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day when you want a wholesome meal with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crock pot. They’ll be the star of your taco show!
2. Season the Chicken:
Evenly sprinkle the taco seasoning over the chicken. Make sure to cover it well for maximum flavor.
3. Add the Salsa:
Now, pour the salsa over the seasoned chicken. This will keep everything moist and tasty as it cooks!
4. Include Optional Ingredients:
If you’re using them, add the drained black beans and corn on top of the salsa. These add great texture and nutrition to your tacos!
5. Cook the Chicken:
Cover your crock pot with the lid and set it to cook. Choose low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it’s cooked through and shreds easily with a fork.
6. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the crock pot. Mix it with the juices to enhance the flavor even more!
7. Warm the Tortillas:
While your chicken is shredding, warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave until they are pliable. This makes them easier to fill.
8. Assemble Your Tacos:
Take a warm tortilla and fill it with the shredded chicken mixture from the crock pot. It’s all about getting that perfect scoop!
9. Add Your Toppings:
Top your tacos with shredded cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes, red onion, fresh cilantro, and slices of avocado if you like. Get creative here!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your tacos immediately with lime wedges and sour cream on the side. Enjoy your tasty Crock Pot Chicken Tacos with friends and family!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just be sure to add an extra hour to the cooking time on both low and high settings. The chicken will need to reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked. Also, consider using a meat thermometer for accuracy!
What Can I Substitute for Taco Seasoning?
If you don’t have taco seasoning on hand, you can easily make your own! Combine 2 teaspoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust proportions to taste for more heat or flavor!
How to Store Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To keep the tortillas separate, store the taco filling and tortillas in different containers. Reheat the filling on the stove or in the microwave, and warm the tortillas before serving.
Can I Add More Veggies to These Tacos?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach to the crock pot. Just chop the veggies and layer them on top of the chicken along with the other ingredients. They’ll cook down nicely and add more flavor and nutrients to your tacos!
