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.
This recipe has become a weeknight favorite because it requires minimal effort yet 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 This dish always brings everyone to the table and sparks lively conversation during family dinners.
Required Tools
Slow cooker, mixing bowl, forks for shredding, knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (if using cheese or sour cream) and Wheat (if using flour tortillas). Use corn tortillas for gluten-free preparation.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (without toppings): Calories 210, Total Fat 5 g, Carbohydrates 15 g, Protein 25 g
Save Enjoy these flavorful tacos any night of the week for a quick and delicious meal your family will love.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and tend to be juicier after slow cooking, making shredding easier and enhancing flavor.
- → What type of tortillas are best for this dish?
Both corn and flour tortillas are great; corn offers a gluten-free option and a slightly firmer texture, while flour tortillas are soft and pliable.
- → How can I make the dish spicier?
Add cayenne pepper or use a hot salsa variety in the sauce to increase the heat level according to your preference.
- → Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, the shredded chicken can be cooked in advance and refrigerated for up to 3 days, making it convenient for quick meals later.
- → What are some good toppings to complement the chicken?
Fresh toppings like shredded lettuce, cheese blends, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, sour cream, and chopped cilantro add texture and brightness to each serving.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, choosing corn tortillas and ensuring all seasonings contain no gluten makes it suitable for gluten-free preferences.