Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos

These slow cooker chicken tacos are the perfect meal if you’re looking for healthy crock pot recipes that are both easy and delicious! Using simple ingredients, this recipe makes slow cooker Mexican shredded chicken tacos that are packed with flavor while keeping things light and nutritious. Whether you're searching for chicken crockpot recipes or new healthy meal ideas, this dish is a great go-to. Perfect for a busy weeknight, these crock pot shredded chicken tacos require minimal prep time, allowing you to create a flavorful, wholesome dinner with ease. Serve them with your favorite toppings for a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. For anyone needing easy healthy dinner ideas, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4-6 hours (on low) or 2-3 hours (on high)
Total Time: 4-6 hours
Servings: 6-8 tacos

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• 1 cup salsa (your favorite variety)

• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning: 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon salt)

• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth

• Juice of 1 lime

• 8 small whole-wheat tortillas

• Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, shredded cheese, cilantro, sour cream, or Greek yogurt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the slow cooker.

2. Season and Add Salsa: Pour the taco seasoning and salsa over the chicken. Add the chicken broth for moisture, and squeeze the lime juice over the mixture.

3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).

4. Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the sauce.

5. Warm the Tortillas: Warm the tortillas in a pan or microwave before serving.

6. Assemble Tacos: Fill each tortilla with the shredded chicken and top with your favorite toppings such as lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, shredded cheese, and cilantro.

Nutritional Information (per taco with chicken, based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 220

• Protein: 20g

• Carbohydrates: 20g

• Fat: 8g

• Saturated Fat: 2g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sodium: 430mg

• Sugar: 2g

Things You’ll Love About This Recipe:

• Set It and Forget It: The slow cooker does most of the work, making it easy to prepare a healthy meal with minimal effort.

• Healthy and Light: Using whole-wheat tortillas and lean chicken keeps this dish balanced and nutritious.

• Family-Friendly: Everyone can customize their own tacos with their favorite toppings.

• Great for Meal Prep: Make extra and store the chicken for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

• Versatile: Swap the chicken for other proteins, like beef or pork, if you prefer.

Expert Tips for Best Results:

• Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Juiciness: If you want even more flavor and tenderness, opt for chicken thighs instead of breasts.

• Don’t Skip the Broth: Adding chicken broth helps keep the chicken moist and prevents it from drying out.

• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste the chicken once shredded and add more seasoning or lime juice if desired.

• Shred the Chicken While Warm: It’s easier to shred the chicken when it’s still hot, so don’t let it cool too much before shredding.

• Warm Tortillas Properly: Warming the tortillas makes them more pliable and enhances the overall taco experience.

Serving Suggestions:

• Mexican Rice: Serve your tacos with a side of Mexican-style rice for a more filling meal.

• Black Beans: Add black beans for extra protein and fiber. You can serve them on the side or inside the tacos.

• Fresh Salsa or Pico de Gallo: Fresh salsa or pico de gallo adds a bright, zesty touch to the tacos.

• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole is a delicious topping and pairs well with the seasoned chicken.

• Side Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, avocado, and lime vinaigrette complements the flavors and adds extra nutrition.

This slow cooker chicken taco recipe is a tasty and healthy way to enjoy a satisfying meal with minimal effort, perfect for family dinners or meal prep!