Description

This Healthy Crockpot Chicken Tacos recipe offers a simple, flavorful, and hands-off way to prepare tender and juicy shredded chicken using a slow cooker. Infused with a blend of spices and salsa, the chicken is perfectly cooked low and slow, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Serve the shredded chicken in tortillas, lettuce wraps, or over rice with your favorite taco toppings for a wholesome and delicious meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Seasonings

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

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Instructions

Prepare the chicken and seasoning: Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot insert. Evenly sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder over the chicken. Pour the salsa on top, and drizzle with lime juice if using.
Add the cooking liquid and cook: Pour the chicken broth or water into the crockpot. Cover with the lid and cook on low for 4-6 hours for the most tender and juicy results. Alternatively, cook on high for 3-4 hours if short on time, though low and slow is preferred for better texture.
Shred the cooked chicken: Once the chicken is fully cooked, transfer the breasts to a cutting board and shred them using two forks. You can also use a stand mixer or handheld mixer for faster shredding, but avoid using a mixer directly in the crockpot to protect its enamel coating.
Combine shredded chicken with juices: Return the shredded chicken back to the crockpot so it can soak up the flavorful cooking juices and spices.
Serve and enjoy: Serve the shredded chicken warm with your favorite taco toppings. It works great in tortillas, lettuce wraps, or over rice for a versatile and healthy meal.

Notes

Using low-sodium chicken broth helps control the sodium level in the dish.
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chipotle powder if you like heat.
Lime juice is optional but adds a fresh zing that brightens the dish.
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for longer storage.
Pair with toppings like avocado, cilantro, shredded cheese, salsa, sour cream, or chopped onions for customizable tacos.