Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos are a delicious and effortless way to enjoy flavorful, tender chicken tacos with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends, this recipe lets the slow cooker do all the work, infusing the chicken with a blend of spices, garlic, and zesty lime juice. The result is juicy, shredded chicken that’s packed with flavor and ready to be piled high in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings. Whether you prefer your tacos with a simple garnish of cilantro and onion or loaded with cheese, avocado, and salsa, these Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with green chilies for extra flavor)
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade blend)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Tortillas, for serving
- Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, lime wedges
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker. Sprinkle the chopped onion and minced garlic over the chicken.
- Add the Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix together the taco seasoning, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Add the Tomatoes and Broth: Pour the diced tomatoes (with their juices) over the seasoned chicken. Squeeze the juice of one lime over the top, then pour in the chicken broth.
- Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. Stir the shredded chicken to coat it in the sauce, and let it sit on warm for an additional 10-15 minutes to absorb even more flavor.
- Serve: Serve the shredded chicken in warm tortillas with your choice of toppings. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top for an extra burst of flavor.
These Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos are a simple, flavorful, and customizable dish that’s perfect for any taco night, offering tender, juicy chicken with minimal effort and maximum taste.