Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken Taco Filling

This Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken Taco Filling is a zesty, tender mix of chicken, tomatoes, and bold Mexican spices. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or bowls, it’s easy, gluten-free, and ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken Taco Filling is a game-changer for anyone craving vibrant Mexican flavors with minimal effort. Juicy chicken breasts simmer in a savory blend of tomatoes, chili powder, and cumin, transforming into tender, shreddable goodness that’s perfect for tacos, burritos, or bowls. The slow cooker does all the work, infusing the dish with rich, spicy notes while you go about your day. Ideal for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or meal prep, this gluten-free recipe is versatile, budget-friendly, and customizable with your favorite toppings or heat levels. Its bold flavors deepen over time, making leftovers a delicious bonus for quick, satisfying meals that everyone will love.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Don’t Overfill Slow Cooker: Use a 4-quart model for even cooking.
• Shred Easily: Use two forks or a hand mixer for quick shredding.
• Adjust Spice: Start with 1 tsp chili powder; add more for heat lovers.
• Check Liquid: Add broth if too dry; cook uncovered last 30 minutes if watery.
• Taste Before Serving: Adjust salt, lime, or spices for perfect flavor.
• Use Fresh Lime: Brightens flavors; bottled lacks vibrancy.
• Brown Chicken (Optional): Adds depth but can be skipped for simplicity.
• Rest Before Shredding: Lets juices settle for moist, flavorful chicken.

Yield: 8 Servings

Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken Taco Filling

Print

Zesty slow cooker shredded chicken with tomatoes and Mexican spices for tacos.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 4 hours

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes

Ingredients

• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prep Ingredients: Dice onion, mince garlic, and measure spices for quick assembly.

Sauté (Optional): Heat olive oil in a skillet; brown chicken 2-3 minutes per side for extra flavor.

Layer Slow Cooker: Place onion, garlic, and diced tomatoes in a 4-quart slow cooker.

Add Chicken: Nestle chicken breasts on top of veggies; sprinkle with chili powder and cumin.

Pour Broth: Add chicken broth; season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cook Low: Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours until chicken is tender and shreddable.

Shred Chicken: Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return to slow cooker.

Add Lime: Stir in lime juice; taste and adjust salt, spice, or citrus as needed.

Rest: Let mixture rest 10 minutes off heat to absorb flavors.

Serve: Garnish with cilantro; serve in tacos, burritos, or bowls with your favorite toppings.

Notes

• Use a 4-quart slow cooker for even cooking and juicy results.
• Browning chicken adds depth but can be skipped for faster prep.
• Leftovers are great for quesadillas, nachos, or salad toppers.
• Serve with avocado, salsa, or sour cream for extra flair.

Nutrition Information

Yield

8

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 240Total Fat 14gSaturated Fat 4gUnsaturated Fat 10gCholesterol 93mgSodium 95mgCarbohydrates 3gFiber 1gSugar 1gProtein 25g

The recipes and nutritional information on Crock Pot Meal are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

• Chicken Breasts (1.5 lbs): Boneless, skinless for easy shredding; thighs for richer flavor.
• Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 15 oz): Fire-roasted for smoky depth; regular as substitute.
• Onion (1 medium, diced): Yellow for sweetness; red for sharper flavor.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Fresh for bold aroma; powder (1 tsp) as backup.
• Chili Powder (1-2 tsp): Adjust for heat; use mild or spicy blend.
• Cumin (1 tsp): Ground for warm, earthy flavor; essential for taco vibe.
• Lime Juice (1 tbsp, fresh): Adds zesty brightness; lemon as alternative.
• Olive Oil (1 tbsp): For sautéing; optional for richer flavor.
• Chicken Broth (½ cup): Low-sodium for control; enhances juiciness.
• Cilantro (2 tbsp, chopped): Fresh garnish; parsley if cilantro-averse.

Variations and Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Naturally GF; ensure broth and spices are compliant.
• Spicy Version: Add ½ tsp cayenne or diced jalapeños for heat.
• Vegetarian: Swap chicken for jackfruit or black beans.
• Low-Carb: Serve in lettuce wraps instead of tortillas.
• Smoky Twist: Add ½ tsp smoked paprika or chipotle powder.
• Veggie Boost: Include diced bell peppers or zucchini.
• Protein Swap: Use turkey or pork for different flavor profiles.
• Creamy Option: Stir in 2 tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt at end.

Storage Options

• Refrigerator: Store in airtight container up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze up to 3 months; thaw overnight in fridge.
• Reheating: Warm on stove with splash of broth; microwave gently.

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