Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken Tacos (Printable)

Savory shredded chicken simmered in spices, served with warm tortillas and fresh vibrant toppings.

# What You'll Need:

→ Chicken

01 - 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

→ Sauce & Seasonings

02 - 1 cup tomato salsa (mild or medium)
03 - 1 tablespoon chili powder
04 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
05 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
08 - ½ teaspoon salt
09 - ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Tacos

10 - 12 small corn or flour tortillas, warmed

→ Optional Toppings

11 - 1 cup shredded lettuce
12 - 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
13 - ½ cup sour cream
14 - 1 avocado, sliced
15 - ½ cup diced tomatoes
16 - ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
17 - Lime wedges, for serving

# Directions:

01 - Place chicken breasts or thighs in the base of the slow cooker.
02 - In a mixing bowl, blend salsa, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly mixed.
03 - Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are thoroughly coated.
04 - Cover and cook on low heat for 6 hours or on high heat for 4 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
05 - Remove chicken from the cooker and shred with two forks. Return shredded chicken to the cooker and stir to combine with the sauce.
06 - Heat tortillas until warm. Fill each with a generous portion of shredded chicken and desired toppings.
07 - Serve immediately accompanied by lime wedges.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Easy and satisfying family meal
  • Gluten-Free (if using corn tortillas) and Dairy-Free options
02 -
  • Use corn tortillas to keep the recipe gluten-free.
  • Leftovers can be repurposed in burrito bowls or quesadillas.
03 -
  • For a spicier version, substitute hot salsa or add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter topping
Go Back