Description
Are you looking for a delicious, easy-to-make meal that your whole family will love? Slow cooker chicken tacos might just be the perfect solution. Whether you’re planning a busy weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal, these tacos offer a blend of flavors that are sure to satisfy. Using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, freeing up your time for other activities. Let’s dive into the world of slow cooker chicken tacos and discover why they’re a favorite for many.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning
- 1 cup salsa or diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- 1 cup sour cream (optional)
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 1 avocado, sliced (optional)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions
- Preparation:
- Start by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.
- If using fresh tomatoes instead of salsa, chop them finely.
- Combine in Slow Cooker:
- Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and salsa or diced tomatoes on top.
- Cooking:
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat for 6-8 hours, or high heat for 3-4 hours.
- After the cooking time, check if the chicken is fully cooked. It should be tender and easy to shred with a fork.
- Final Steps:
- Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the slow cooker.
- Mix it well with the juices and other ingredients to ensure even flavor distribution.
- Warm your tortillas (you can use flour or corn tortillas).
- Place a generous amount of shredded chicken on each tortilla, then top with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime.
Notes
- Flavor Enhancements:
- For an extra burst of flavor, marinate the chicken in the taco seasoning overnight before cooking.
- If you have the time, make your own taco seasoning mix with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder for a fresher, more robust flavor.
- Cooking Techniques:
- Check the chicken a bit earlier than the suggested time to ensure it doesn’t overcook and become dry.
- If the chicken looks dry, you can add a bit more salsa or a splash of chicken broth during cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low, or 3-4 hours on high
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Mexican