Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken

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 quickly became a family favorite because of its simple prep and delicious result 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

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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.

Check doneness of meats, candy, and baked goods instantly for safer, perfectly cooked results.

Check price on Amazon

Check doneness of meats, candy, and baked goods instantly for safer, perfectly cooked results.

Check price on Amazon

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Sharing these tacos around the table has become a cherished family moment, filled with smiles and full bellies.

Required Tools

Slow cooker, mixing bowl, forks (for shredding), knife and cutting board

Allergen Information

Contains milk (if using cheese or sour cream), wheat (if using flour tortillas). For gluten-free, use corn tortillas and double-check labels on all packaged ingredients.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (without toppings): Calories 210, Total Fat 5 g, Carbohydrates 15 g, Protein 25 g

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Cushioned mats provide comfort while cooking, absorbing spills near the sink and stove for cleaner meal prep.

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This slow cooker taco recipe provides a simple yet flavorful dinner idea that everyone will love.

Recipe FAQs

→ What cut of chicken works best for shredding?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both shred well, though thighs tend to be more tender and juicy.

→ Can I use fresh spices instead of ground ones?

Freshly ground spices enhance flavor, but pre-ground chili powder, cumin, and paprika work well for convenience.

→ What’s the ideal cooking time for tender shredding?

Cooking on low for about 6 hours or on high for 4 ensures the chicken becomes tender enough to shred easily.

→ How can I make the dish spicier?

Use hot salsa or add a small amount of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix before cooking.

→ Are corn tortillas better for this dish?

Corn tortillas offer a gluten-free option and provide a slightly earthier flavor that complements the seasoned chicken well.

→ What are good toppings to complement the shredded chicken?

Fresh avocado slices, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cilantro, shredded cheese, and a squeeze of lime enhance the flavors and textures.