Mouthwatering Crockpot Chicken Tacos That Will Change Your Taco Game Forever! www.recipesjelly.com
Easy, tasty slow-cooker meals don’t get much better than crockpot chicken tacos. You will love this dish on busy days, when you are running short of time to cook but still crave a tasty dinner. Just a few ingredients, and your crock pot (or slow cooker) is all it takes to get this delicious meal on the table for you and your family.
In this post, we will walk you through how to make these simple crockpot chicken tacos, so you can just carry out the quick and easy recipe. We’ll also answer some commonly ask questions to ensure you achieve the best results! www.recipesjelly.com
Why You Should Try Crockpot Chicken Tacos
There are so many reasons why crockpot chicken tacos make a great meal:
- Simple Ingredients: You don’t need to be a chef to execute these tacos. The ingredients are simple, and many — if not most? — of them you may already have in your kitchen.
- Hands-Off Cooking: All of the work in this dish is done BY THE CROCKPOT. All you have to do is combine the ingredients in it, set the timer and let the slow cooker perform its magic.
- Perfect for Busy People: Egg drop soup is perfect if you’re on the go with school, work or both, as there’s little to no effort in the dish at all.
- Customizable: The ingredients can be substituted to taste or for dietary preference. Spicy or mild, your call.
- Family-Friendly: Kids go crazy for tacos, and this is a meal that the whole family can sit down to eat.
Now, let’s go to the recipe!
Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken Tacos
You will need the following ingredients:
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – ~3-4 (approximately 1 to 1.5 pounds or 450-680g).
- Taco Seasoning – 1 packet (or 2-3 tbsp if you do homemade seasoning and to taste).
- Salsa – 1 cup (you could use the readymade ones or prepare your own fresh salsa).
- Taco Shells or Tortillas – 8 to 10 shells, depending on how many tacos you want to make.
- Toppings – Shredded cheese, sour cream, guacamole, lettuce, finely chopped tomatoes, cut cilantro, jalapeños or any of your favorite taco toppings.
Optional:
- Lime – To squeeze over your tacos at the end.
- Beans or Corn – Throw some beans or corn in your tacos; they add extra flavor.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Tacos
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in your crockpot to begin. Frozen or fresh will work fine.
Step 2: Add Taco Seasoning
Then, sprinkle the seasoning packet over the chicken. You can use a pre-made taco seasoning or whip up your own with a blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder and paprika.
Step 3: Pour in Salsa
Pour 1 cup of salsa over the chicken and seasoning. The salsa will moisten and flavor the chicken as it cooks.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Replace the lid on the crockpot, and cook for 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high. The chicken will cook low and slow, leaving you with a tender bird that’s easy to shred.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Then, once the chicken is fully cooked, as it will be falling apart, use two forks to shred the chicken within the crockpot. Mix everything to allow the chicken to be coated with the salsa and seasoning. The chicken will be ultra-tender and easy to shred.
Step 6: Assemble the Tacos
After your chicken is shredded, it’s time to assemble your tacos. Heat the taco shells or tortillas in the microwave or oven, and scoop the shredded chicken mixture into the shells.
Top with your favorite toppings – cheese, shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, sour cream or guacamole. Squeeze a little lime juice over the tacos for that extra pop of flavor!
Tips for the Best Crockpot Chicken Tacos
- Don’t Overcook: If you can, don’t overcook the chicken to cook in your crockpot, as it might dry out. Stick with 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high.
- Use Bone-In Chicken: If you’d like, you can use bone-in chicken; just be sure to remove the bones before shredding.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy spicy flavors, include some jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy salsa in the chicken.
- Make It a Meal: Serve your tacos with Mexican rice, beans or a simple salad for the whole meal deal.
How to Store Leftover Crockpot Chicken Tacos
Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in a sealed container and refrigerated for 3-4 days. Heat the chicken in the microwave or a pan on the stovetop before using it in more tacos, or servings salads and wraps.
You can also freeze extra shredded chicken for up to 3 months. Just be sure to freeze the chicken in a lidded bag or container and reheat before serving.
FAQs About Crockpot Chicken Tacos
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, you can use chicken thighs if you like. Chicken thighs are slightly more flavorful and tender than chicken breasts. Just remember to pick through the bones before you shred them.
2. Can I make this recipe without a crockpot? Yes, you can! If you don’t own a crockpot, you can cook the chicken on the stovetop. Simply simmer in a pot with salsa and seasoning for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and easy to shred.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can make the chicken ahead of time and keep it in your fridge. If serving the chicken in tacos, rewarm before using. Such a fantastic meal prep idea!
4. Can I make this recipe spicy? Absolutely! If you want the chicken to have a kick, add extra chili powder, hot sauce or some diced jalapeños. Season to your liking.
5. Can I use homemade taco seasoning? Yes! If you want to skip store-bought variety, blend your own combination (such as chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt and pepper).
6. What toppings go well with crockpot chicken tacos? Some really good toppings are shredded cheese, sour cream, guacamole, lettuce and tomato, as well as cilantro and jalapeños. You can also drizzle with a squeeze of lime for added flavor.
Conclusion
Crockpot chicken tacos are a simple and delicious meal that your family will love. Everyone can create their perfect taco. Enter the slow cooker — with a few ingredients and some time, you’ve got an easy meal for a busy weeknight. Whether you’re cooking for one or serving a big crowd, it’s a recipe that everyone will love!
Stick with your tacos and feel free to customize toppings and seasonings to make them your own. Happy cooking!
