Crockpot Chicken Tacos

Crockpot Chicken Tacos are a delicious, easy, and family-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With minimal prep and a hands-off cooking method, this recipe delivers tender, flavorful chicken that’s perfect for stuffing into tacos. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, these tacos are sure to please!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Effortless Cooking: Just set it and forget it in the crockpot.
  • Bursting with Flavor: Infused with Mexican-inspired spices.
  • Versatile: Perfect for tacos, burritos, salads, or rice bowls.
  • Great for Meal Prep: Easy to make ahead and reheat.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves a good taco night!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Chicken breasts or thighs (boneless, skinless)
  • Taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
  • Salsa (your favorite brand or homemade)
  • Chicken broth or water
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, guacamole, lettuce, diced tomatoes, or jalapeños
  • Tortillas (flour or corn)

Directions

  1. Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the crockpot.
  2. Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the chicken.
  3. Pour the salsa and chicken broth (or water) over the top.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
  5. Once the chicken is fully cooked and tender, shred it with two forks directly in the crockpot or on a cutting board.
  6. Stir the shredded chicken to coat it in the juices.
  7. Serve the chicken in warm tortillas and top with your favorite taco toppings.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 6 tacos (approximately)
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high

Variations

  • Spicy Tacos: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the crockpot.
  • Creamy Option: Mix in cream cheese or sour cream for a creamy chicken filling.
  • BBQ Twist: Swap the taco seasoning for BBQ seasoning and use BBQ sauce instead of salsa.
  • Low-Carb: Serve in lettuce wraps or over a bed of cauliflower rice.
  • Cheesy Delight: Top the shredded chicken with shredded cheese and let it melt in the crockpot.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store the shredded chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, but you may need to increase the cooking time.

2. What type of salsa works best?

Use your favorite salsa—mild, medium, or spicy—depending on your heat preference.

3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Thighs are flavorful and work just as well.

4. How can I make my own taco seasoning?

Combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.

5. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, just skip any toppings like cheese or sour cream.

6. What’s the best way to shred chicken?

Use two forks, or for an easier method, use a hand mixer on low speed.

7. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, just ensure your crockpot is large enough to hold the extra chicken.

8. What are some good side dishes to serve with chicken tacos?

Try rice, beans, chips and guacamole, or a fresh salad.

9. Can I cook this on the stovetop?

Yes, simmer the chicken with the seasoning and salsa until tender, then shred.

10. How do I keep the chicken moist?

Cooking it in salsa and broth keeps it juicy. Avoid overcooking to prevent drying out.

Conclusion

Crockpot Chicken Tacos are the ultimate blend of simplicity, flavor, and versatility. With minimal prep and endless topping options, this recipe is a must-have for taco lovers. Whether you’re hosting a taco night or looking for an easy meal to satisfy the family, these tender, flavorful chicken tacos are sure to be a hit. Give them a try and enjoy the convenience of crockpot cooking!

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Crockpot Chicken Tacos

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These Crockpot Chicken Tacos are incredibly easy to make and bursting with flavor! Juicy, tender shredded chicken cooked in a blend of taco seasonings makes the perfect filling for tacos, burritos, or taco bowls. A simple and delicious meal your family will love!

  • Author: Beth
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours (on low) or 3 hours (on high)
  • Total Time: 6 hours 5 minutes (on low)
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning, see below)
  • 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or spicy based on preference)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings:

  • Shredded cheese
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Chopped lettuce
  • Guacamole or sliced avocado
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Chopped cilantro

Homemade Taco Seasoning (optional):

  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crockpot:
    • Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
  2. Add Seasoning and Salsa:
    • Sprinkle the taco seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder over the chicken.
    • Pour the salsa and chicken broth over the top.
  3. Cook the Chicken:
    • Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easy to shred.
  4. Shred the Chicken:
    • Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot. Stir to coat the shredded chicken in the juices and seasonings. Add lime juice and adjust salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Serve:
    • Serve the chicken in warm taco shells or tortillas. Top with your favorite toppings and enjoy!

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of chipotle chili powder to the crockpot.
  • This chicken is versatile and works well for burritos, nachos, quesadillas, or taco salads.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

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