Save Tender, flavorful shredded chicken cooked in a slow cooker and served in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings—perfect for an easy and satisfying family meal.
I love preparing this slow cooker shredded chicken tacos for busy weeknights because it requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor every time.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 1.5 lbs (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Sauce & Seasonings: 1 cup (240 ml) tomato salsa (mild or medium, as preferred), 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Tacos: 12 small corn or flour tortillas, warmed
- Optional Toppings: 1 cup (100 g) shredded lettuce, 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend), ½ cup (120 ml) sour cream, 1 avocado, sliced, ½ cup (80 g) diced tomatoes, ¼ cup (15 g) chopped fresh cilantro, Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Step 2:
- In a bowl, mix together the salsa, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Step 3:
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well-coated.
- Step 4:
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
- Step 5:
- Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the cooker, stirring to combine with the sauce.
- Step 6:
- Warm the tortillas. Fill each with a generous portion of shredded chicken and your choice of toppings.
- Step 7:
- Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
Save Making these tacos has become a cherished weekend tradition with my family, bringing everyone to the table with smiles and full plates.
Notes
For a spicier version, use hot salsa or add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper. For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Pair with a light lager or classic margarita.
Required Tools
Slow cooker, mixing bowl, forks (for shredding), knife and cutting board.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides 210 calories, 5 g total fat, 15 g carbohydrates, and 25 g protein without toppings.
Save This recipe is both flexible and foolproof, perfect for impressing guests or feeding your family on busy nights.
Common Questions
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and tend to remain moist and flavorful when slow-cooked.
- → What salsa is best for this dish?
A mild or medium tomato salsa complements the spices without overpowering the natural chicken flavor.
- → How do I warm the tortillas properly?
Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat or wrap in foil and heat in the oven until soft and pliable.
- → What toppings pair well with the chicken?
Classic toppings include shredded lettuce, cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, diced tomatoes, and fresh cilantro.
- → Can this be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, the chicken can be cooked and shredded in advance, then refrigerated. Reheat gently before serving.
- → Is it suitable for gluten-free diets?
Use corn tortillas and verify ingredient labels to keep the dish gluten-free.