Ultimate Crockpot Shredded Chicken Tacos: Easy, Flavorful, and Perfect for Busy Weeknights

Discover the secret to effortless weeknight dinners with these incredibly delicious crockpot shredded chicken tacos. This recipe is a true game-changer for busy families and anyone looking to enjoy robust flavors with minimal fuss. Requiring just a handful of simple ingredients and very little hands-on time, you can set it and forget it, returning to perfectly tender, juicy, and flavor-packed shredded chicken ready to be transformed into your favorite taco creation. Get ready to impress your taste buds and simplify your dinner routine!

We love serving these slow cooker shredded chicken tacos with fresh lime wedges, a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce, and a generous scoop of homemade guacamole. The bright, creamy, and spicy notes perfectly complement the savory chicken, creating a truly irresistible meal.

Why These Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos Will Become Your New Favorite

If you’re a fan of easy chicken recipes that don’t compromise on flavor, then this is the recipe you’ve been searching for! This slow cooker shredded chicken is not only incredibly flavorful but also remarkably versatile. While perfect for delicious tacos, this juicy, tender chicken can also be used as the star in burritos, quesadillas, salads, rice bowls, nachos, or even as a hearty filling for sandwiches. Its rich, savory profile makes it an ideal base for countless meals, ensuring you get the most out of your cooking efforts.

Looking for more amazing crockpot chicken recipes? Don’t miss out on this fantastic slow cooker buffalo chicken dip, perfect for game day, or this crowd-pleasing slow cooker BBQ chicken, great for sandwiches and salads.

Essential Ingredients for Your Flavorful Shredded Chicken

Creating truly outstanding crockpot shredded chicken tacos starts with high-quality ingredients and a thoughtful blend of spices. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component is key to the irresistible flavor profile:

• Chicken Selection

  For this recipe, we recommend using 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Chicken breasts are lean, readily available, and absorb flavors beautifully in the slow cooker. However, feel free to substitute with boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins for an even quicker shredding experience, or boneless chicken thighs for a richer, more succulent result. Regardless of your choice, make sure to discard any excess fat or gristle before adding the chicken to the crockpot to ensure the purest flavor and texture.

• The Perfect Spice Blend

  The magic in these shredded chicken tacos comes from a carefully selected combination of spices. You’ll need:

  • Garlic Powder: Provides a foundational aromatic flavor that is essential for most savory dishes.
  • Onion Powder: Adds a sweet, concentrated onion flavor without the texture of fresh onions.
  • Cumin: A hallmark spice in Tex-Mex and Mexican cuisine, cumin brings a warm, earthy, and slightly smoky depth that is crucial for taco flavor.
  • Adobo All-Purpose Seasoning: This blend typically includes garlic, oregano, and black pepper, adding a well-rounded savory and slightly tangy kick.
  • Tomato Bouillon with Chicken Flavor: This is a secret weapon for intense flavor. It not only adds a rich tomato essence but also amplifies the chicken flavor, giving the dish an incredible depth that mimics hours of simmering. If you can’t find it, you can use a combination of tomato paste and an extra chicken bouillon cube, or simply more chicken broth.

  Feel free to experiment and include other favorite spices like chili powder for a smoky heat, smoked paprika for extra depth, or a pinch of dried oregano for an authentic touch.

• Fresh Aromatics: Onions

  You’ll need one large onion for this recipe. While Vidalia, white, or yellow onions all work well, each offers a slightly different character. Vidalia onions are sweeter and milder, perfect if you prefer a less pungent onion flavor. White onions are crisp and sharp, ideal for a more classic savory base. Yellow onions are a versatile all-rounder, offering a good balance of sweetness and pungency. Thinly slicing them ensures they soften beautifully and integrate seamlessly into the shredded chicken.

• Sweet Bell Peppers

  Green, red, or yellow bell peppers are fantastic in this dish. I personally prefer red bell peppers because they are the sweetest, adding a lovely natural sugars that complement the savory chicken. Yellow peppers are also quite sweet, while green bell peppers offer a slightly more bitter, earthy flavor. Using a mix of colors can also make your tacos visually more appealing. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a thinly sliced jalapeño or serrano pepper along with the bell peppers.

• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth

  A 15-ounce can of low-sodium chicken broth is highly recommended. Using low-sodium broth allows you to control the overall saltiness of your dish, especially since adobo seasoning and tomato bouillon can already contribute significant sodium. This ensures your chicken tacos are perfectly seasoned, not overly salty. You can always add more salt to taste later if needed.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Crockpot Shredded Chicken Tacos

Achieving restaurant-quality shredded chicken tacos at home is easier than you think, especially with these insider tips:

• Warm Those Tortillas!

  Whether you opt for traditional corn tortillas or soft flour tortillas, always make sure to warm them up right before assembling your tacos. This makes them pliable, prevents them from breaking, and enhances their flavor and aroma. You can warm them in a dry skillet over medium-high heat for about 15-20 seconds per side, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds, or stack them in foil and heat in the oven.

• Keep it Warm for Guests

  If you’re entertaining or hosting a taco night party, the “warm” function on your crockpot is your best friend. After the chicken is cooked and shredded, simply press the “warm” setting, and the shredded chicken will remain at a perfect serving temperature for a few hours. This allows your guests to serve themselves at their leisure without the chicken drying out or getting cold.

• Avoid Soggy Tortillas

  To prevent your tortillas from becoming a soggy mess, I highly recommend using tongs to serve the saucy shredded chicken. After scooping, give the tongs a gentle shake to remove any excess liquid before placing the chicken into the tortilla. This little trick ensures your tacos stay firm and enjoyable from the first bite to the last.

• Taste and Adjust Seasoning

  Always taste the shredded chicken right before serving. Slow cooking can sometimes mellow flavors, so a final check is crucial. Add more salt and pepper if needed, or a pinch more cumin or adobo to brighten the profile. A squeeze of fresh lime juice at this stage can also remarkably enhance the overall flavor.

• Effortless Shredding

  While two forks are the classic method for shredding chicken, a hand-held electric mixer can make the job even faster, especially for a large batch. Simply place the cooked chicken breasts (after removing from the liquid) into a large bowl and use the mixer on low speed for about 30-60 seconds until perfectly shredded. Be careful not to overmix, as this can turn the chicken into a paste-like consistency, similar to canned tuna.

• Don’t Overcrowd Your Crockpot

  While slow cookers are great for large quantities, avoid packing your chicken in too tightly. Give the ingredients some space to breathe and allow the heat to circulate evenly for optimal cooking and flavor development.

How Long Do I Cook Crockpot Shredded Chicken For?

The beauty of the slow cooker is its flexibility. For this shredded chicken recipe, you have two primary options:

• On Low Heat: Cook the chicken for 6-8 hours. This slower cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully and results in exceptionally tender chicken that practically falls apart.
• On High Heat: Cook for 2-4 hours. This option is perfect when you’re short on time, yielding delicious results in a shorter window. The chicken will still be tender and easy to shred, though the depth of flavor might be slightly more developed with the longer, low-heat cook.

Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety, though by the time it’s falling apart and easy to shred, it will be well past this temperature.

Irresistible Toppings for Your Shredded Chicken Tacos

The fun part about tacos is customizing them with an array of delicious toppings! Feel free to serve these amazing shredded chicken tacos with any of the following, or get creative with your own favorites:

• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Adds a cool, creamy tang that balances the rich chicken.
• Fresh Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens all the flavors and adds a zesty kick.
• Fresh Cilantro: Chopped fresh cilantro offers a vibrant, herbaceous note that is quintessential for tacos.
• Spanish Rice: A classic side that perfectly complements the tacos, making for a hearty and satisfying meal.
• Raw or Pickled Onions: Thinly sliced red onions or homemade pickled red onions add a sharp, tangy crunch.
• Avocado Crema or Sliced Avocado: For an extra layer of creamy richness and healthy fats.
• Shredded Cheese: Monterey Jack, cheddar, or crumbled Cotija cheese are all excellent choices.
• Salsa: Whether it’s a fresh pico de gallo, a smoky salsa roja, or a vibrant salsa verde, salsa adds freshness and moisture.
• Jalapeños: Sliced fresh jalapeños for a spicy kick, or pickled jalapeños for a milder, tangy heat.
• Shredded Lettuce or Cabbage Slaw: Provides a refreshing crunch and a textural contrast.
• Hot Sauce: Your favorite brand of hot sauce can elevate the heat and flavor to your liking.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

These crockpot shredded chicken tacos are excellent for meal prep and make wonderful leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Refrigeration

  If you have any leftovers, allow the shredded chicken to cool completely to room temperature before storing. Transfer it to an air-tight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Storing the chicken separately from the tortillas and toppings will help maintain the best texture.

• Freezing

  For longer storage, the cooked and shredded chicken freezes beautifully. Once cooled, place the chicken (without the sauce, if possible, or with minimal sauce) in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

• Reheating

  To reheat, simply transfer the desired amount of shredded chicken to a saucepan or skillet on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent it from drying out, and stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until piping hot.

Tried these amazing crockpot shredded chicken tacos? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Please leave a star ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating in the recipe card below and/or a review in the comments section further down the page. And don’t forget to connect with us on Facebook or Pinterest for more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 from 1 vote)

Crockpot Shredded Chicken Tacos Recipe

By
Julie Maestre

These crockpot shredded chicken tacos are perfect for busy weeknights. They require minimal effort, minimal ingredients, and are insanely delicious!

Prep:
20 mins

Cook:
2-4 hrs (on High) / 6-8 hrs (on Low)

Total:
2 hrs 20 mins (min)

Servings:
12

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Equipment

• Crockpot (8-quart recommended)
• Large Skillet

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, discard any excess fat
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 red bell peppers, sliced
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 & ½ teaspoons garlic powder (divided)
• 1 & ½ teaspoons onion powder (divided)
• 2 cubes tomato bouillon with chicken flavor
• ½ teaspoon adobo all-purpose seasoning
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• 15 ounce can low-sodium chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Warm tortillas, for serving
• Guacamole, for serving, optional
• Fresh lime wedges, for serving, optional

Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics: Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil; once hot, add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Season with ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
2. Soften Vegetables: Cook the vegetables until they are softened and slightly caramelized, stirring occasionally, for about 5-6 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat.
3. Prepare Slow Cooker: Lightly spray an 8-quart slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the chicken breasts evenly into the bottom of the pot.
4. Season Chicken: Crumble the tomato bouillon cubes and sprinkle them evenly over the chicken. Then, sprinkle the remaining 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of onion powder on top. Add the adobo all-purpose seasoning and cumin.
5. Add Liquids and Vegetables: Carefully pour the low-sodium chicken broth around the chicken in the slow cooker. Distribute the sautéed peppers and onions over the chicken.
6. Slow Cook: Place the lid securely on the slow cooker. Cook for 6-8 hours on the LOW setting or 2-4 hours on the HIGH setting, until the chicken is fork-tender and easily shreddable.
7. Shred Chicken: Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the pot, mixing it with the flavorful juices and vegetables. Alternatively, you can remove the chicken to a large bowl and use an electric mixer on low speed to shred it quickly, being careful not to overmix to maintain texture.
8. Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve the flavorful shredded chicken warm with your favorite tortillas, fresh lime wedges, guacamole, and any other desired toppings. Enjoy your easy and delicious crockpot shredded chicken tacos!

Notes

• Always warm your tortillas (corn or flour) just before assembling tacos for the best texture and flavor.
• Utilize your crockpot’s “warm” function to keep the shredded chicken hot for entertaining or serving a crowd.
• To avoid soggy tortillas, use tongs to serve the chicken and gently shake off any excess liquid before adding it to your taco shell.
• A final taste test before serving is essential! Adjust salt, pepper, or other seasonings to your preference.
• Consider using boneless chicken thighs for an even juicier and richer shredded chicken.

Nutrition

Calories: 115kcal |
Carbohydrates: 3g |
Protein: 17g |
Fat: 3g |
Saturated Fat: 1g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 2g |
Trans Fat: 0.01g |
Cholesterol: 48mg |
Sodium: 100mg |
Potassium: 379mg |
Fiber: 1g |
Sugar: 1g |
Vitamin A: 645IU |
Vitamin C: 27mg |
Calcium: 12mg |
Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Author:
Julie Maestre

Prep Time:
20 minutes

Cook Time:
2-8 hours

Total Time:
2 hours 20 minutes

Course:
Entree, Main Course

Cuisine:
Tex Mex, Mexican-inspired

Servings:
12

Calories:
115

Keyword:
crockpot chicken tacos, shredded chicken tacos, slow cooker chicken tacos, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner

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