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Healthy Crockpot Chicken Tacos Recipe


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4.3 from 40 reviews

  • Author: Ezabella
  • Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This Healthy Crockpot Chicken Tacos recipe combines tender, flavorful shredded chicken cooked low and slow with simple seasonings and salsa. Perfect for a busy day, this easy slow cooker meal is juicy, delicious, and customizable with your favorite taco toppings, making it a wholesome choice for taco night.


Ingredients

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

Liquids

  • 1 cup salsa (red or green, red preferred)
  • Juice of 2 limes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (low or no salt) or water


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the crockpot insert. Evenly sprinkle all the seasonings—chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder—over the chicken to ensure full flavor coverage.
  2. Add Salsa and Lime Juice: Pour 1 cup of salsa on top of the seasoned chicken breasts. If desired, squeeze the juice of 2 limes over the salsa and chicken for added brightness and tang.
  3. Add Liquid and Cook: Pour 1/2 cup of chicken broth or water into the crockpot. Cover with the lid and set the cooker to low heat. Cook for 4 to 6 hours, which allows the chicken to cook gently and remain juicy. Alternatively, cook on high for 3 to 4 hours, though low and slow is recommended for the best texture.
  4. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, remove it carefully from the crockpot. Using two forks, shred the chicken on a cutting board. Alternatively, use a stand mixer or hand mixer with a paddle attachment to shred the chicken quickly—avoid using a hand mixer directly in the crockpot to prevent damage to the enamel.
  5. Combine and Soak: Return the shredded chicken back to the crockpot to soak up the flavorful cooking juices. Stir gently to combine and keep warm until ready to serve.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Spoon the juicy shredded chicken into taco shells or tortillas. Add your favorite taco toppings such as lettuce, cheese, avocado, sour cream, or cilantro for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Cooking on low heat for 4-6 hours yields the best tender, juicy chicken texture.
  • Lime juice is optional but adds a refreshing zest to the chicken.
  • Use low or no-salt chicken broth to control sodium levels.
  • Shredding with a stand mixer is faster but be careful not to overmix to avoid mushy texture.
  • Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Adjust seasoning quantities according to your spice preference.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Mexican